Threats to Marine Turtles

In this lesson students learn about marine turtles and the threats facing them. Students begin by looking at some of the physical characteristics of marine turtles and the features of their life cycle. They then work in groups to investigate the different threats to marine turtles and create a poster or presentation to share with the class. Students then participate in a guided discussion around a video describing how some people are helping marine turtles, and think about the actions we can all take to help marine turtles. Finally, students are asked to work independently to write a poem or reflective piece aimed at convincing people to take action to protect marine turtles. Note: This lesson can be followed by Design a Turtle Nest Protector – Year 4, 5 & 6 – Lesson 2.

Essential questions:

• Where do marine turtles live and what are some of their physical characteristics?
• Why are marine turtles under threat? What are some of these threats?
• What can we all do to help protect marine turtles?