Powerful Verbs: Decken's sifaka
Learning Objective
We are learning how to write sentences that use powerful verbs to create precise images.
Context: Decken’s sifaka
Credit: BBC One - Earth's Tropical Islands
Clip Description
Sifakas are a type of lemur. They are named after their distinctive ‘shi-fak’ calls that echo through the forests of Madagascar. Sifakas have an unusual way of getting around. They leap from one tree trunk to another, always maintaining an upright position. Incredibly, they are able to leap distances of up to ten metres using their powerful spring-like back legs. They also have an unusual way of travelling when on the ground. Standing upright, with their arms in front of them, they move by hopping in a sideways motion.
In this fascinating clip, a family of Decken’s sifakas are in search of fresh, juicy leaves. However, they must first cross a towering rocky landscape made of razor-sharp shards. The sharp rocks could easily shred the skin on a human hand. Will the sifakas be able to overcome this deadly obstacle? Watch the clip to find out.
Discuss the meaning of each word highlighted in bold.
Word Challenge
Can you make a list of powerful verbs that accurately describe the movements of the sifakas as they travel through the different landscapes?
e.g. bounding, springing, edging, …