Commas to clarify meaning: humpback whale
Learning Objective
We are learning how to use commas to clarify meaning and avoid ambiguity.
Context: humpback whale
Credit: BBC One - Seven Worlds, One Planet
Clip Description
With long pectoral fins, humped backs (formed when they prepare to dive), long fluked tails and knobbly heads, humpback whales are an easily identifiable whale species. Instead of having rows of teeth, the humpback’s mouth is lined with baleen. This brush-like mouthpart is used to separate the sea water from its favourite food – krill and small fish.
In this fascinating clip, we see how humpback whales have a very sophisticated method for catching dinner. The technique is called bubble-net feeding. How do you think this technique works? Watch the clip to find out.
Discuss the meaning of each word highlighted in bold.
Word Challenge
Can you make a list of words/phrases that accurately describe the humpback whales and/or the extraordinary feeding technique that enable them to enjoy a banquet of krill?
e.g. krill-loving giant, spiralling spouter, baleen banqueter, …