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Writing Activities: Year 4

Leatherback turtle

Leatherback turtles are the largest of all the turtle species. During their lifetimes, leatherbacks may cross vast oceans many times in search of their favoured breeding and nesting sites.

In this clip, we learn about the remarkable work of Len Peters, who is trying to save leatherback turtles on the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean. For centuries, his fellow countrymen have killed leatherbacks for their meat and eggs. However, through education, Len has managed to persuade hunters that the turtles are more valuable alive.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p05qcb0h/player

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Credit: BBC One - Blue Planet II

Literacy idea

Become an expert on leatherback turtles by finding out as much as you can about them using the information from natgeokids.com. See if you can find answers to the following questions:

  • How are a leatherback’s appearance and features different to those of other marine turtles?
  • What does a leatherback’s diet consist of?
  • What are the greatest threats to leatherbacks?

Now follow in Len’s footsteps and teach what you have learnt about this remarkable marine reptile to a family member or friend. Test to see how well they were listening by giving them a short quiz at the end!

Wider Curriculum idea

Art & Design: Follow the step-by-step instructions from supercoloring.com* and draw a realistic-looking leatherback turtle.

*Please note that this site is funded by adverts.