Writing Activities: Year 5
Orca
Orcas (also known as killer whales), are the largest members of the dolphin family. Their size, strength and intelligence make them one of the world’s most powerful predators. Orcas are social animals, and they communicate with each other using a wide variety of sounds. Each pod (group) of orcas communicates using distinctive noises that its members will recognise, even from far away.
In this clip, we will see what scientists have learnt from studying the life of Granny, who was believed to be the world’s oldest orca.
Credit: BBC - BBC Earth
Literacy idea
Imagine you are an orca expert. Write an article to be published in your local newspaper, explaining why Granny and other orcas are such wonderful beings.
Remember to include…
- An attention-grabbing headline
- An introduction to the issue and your point of view
- Details explaining your point of view
- Quotes from interviews and facts about Granny and other orcas
Wider curriculum idea
Use the images of orcas from natgeokids.com to add a ‘photograph’ to your article. Remember to include a caption explaining what the photo shows.