Writing Activities: Year 3

Red kangaroo

The red kangaroo is the world’s largest marsupial and can reach speeds of over 35 miles an hour. They are excellent athletes. In a single leap, they can clear a distance of up to 25 feet, and jump 6 feet high. Larger male kangaroos have a powerful build and, like many species, they sometimes fight over potential mates. They lean back on their sturdy tail and ‘box’ each other with their strong hind legs. If they encounter an enemy (such as a dingo), kangaroos can also bite and wield their sharp claws.

In this clip, we will see this marsupial’s interesting technique for staying cool in the immense heat of the Australian outback.

Literacy Idea

Using the information on the clip, and these fun facts from natgeokids.com*, create a fact file on the red kangaroo!

You could include the following details:

• Facts about kangaroos such as their size, diet and habitat
• What kangaroos do if they feel threatened
• How they stay cool in the Australian heat
• Information about baby kangaroos (joeys)
• Any other information you think is interesting

*Please note that this site is funded by adverts.

Wider Curriculum Idea

On your fact file, draw at least one picture of a kangaroo so that people can see what kangaroos look like. Try to draw your kangaroo as accurately as possible.