Thirteen Ed Online - Hello, Young Blubbers!

Hello, Young Blubbers!

Using Thirteen's NATURE content and other online resources, students learn about the walrus, a fascinating Arctic mammal comfortable on land and in the water. This lesson encourages students to learn how different physical adaptations enable an animal to thrive in a harsh environment. Specifically, students look at how the walrus's blubber and other adaptations allow it to regulate its body temperature. By experimenting with shortening in a ziploc bag, students discover the characteristics and adaptive purpose of the walrus's blubber.

Grade Level:

2-5

Subject Matter:

Science

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:

Appreciate the role specific physical attributes play in helping animals adapt to their environment.

Define adaptation as a behavior or physical characteristic that helps an organism survive or flourish in its environment.

Learn that walruses, like other animals, have physical adaptations that help them regulate their body temperature.

Understand the value of blubber for sea mammals, particularly walruses.

Identify the insular properties of blubber.

Overview | Procedures for Teachers | Organizers for Students