Sign Up for DocentEdu Class

1. Go to DocentEdu in a new browser tab.
2. Sign up as a student with the class code:
6iec
3. Check your assigned Docent on killer whales. Write in answers to the questions.

Research: Orcas in Captivity

Orcas in the wild and in captivity.

     Map of Sea World Marine Park
Partner Discussion: If you went to Sea World, what attractions would you like to visit?

  What are the Physical and Psychological Effects of Captivity?   
     You will now begin your research on the issue of orcas in captivity. Be sure to evaluate each source. Is the source only presenting one side of the issue? If so, you will want to find sources that present other points of view as well. By analyzing arguments from both sides, you will become more sure of your own position. You will find your first two sources and a note-taking chart in your classroom folder. You will also conduct your own research by using the Custom Search below your friendly avatar.

Argument: Should Marine Mammals be kept in Captivity?

Our Local Marine Mammals

Can you find Watsonville on this map of the Monterey Bay?

     Our very own Monterey Bay is home to a wide variety of ocean life, including marine mammals. Just last summer, our local marine mammals made the national news for the extraordinary display they put on right off of local beaches.

 


I.  Dolphin Intelligence

    




  
1. Listening and Viewing for Claims and Evidence
We humans tend to think of ourselves as the most intelligent of all the earth's animals. We see it every day in our ability to learn, communicate, plan and create. How do scientists measure the intelligence of other animals? As you view the video, take notes on at least three pieces of evidence presented to support the claim that dolphins are also highly intelligent. You will take notes on the document The Human-Dolphin Relationship in your Language Arts folder.


2.  Reading for Information: Summarizing Central Ideas
What has the relationship between humans and dolphins been like? What have been the threats or benefits to dolphins? Read two sources on the human-dolphin relationship. Determine the central ideas presented and use those ideas in an objective summary.

Source One: “Hunted for Fun, Left to Die”

Scholastic Scope Magazine)

II. Orcas in Captivity

Movie Trailer: Blackfish
In 2013, a documentary film was made about keeping orcas in captivity. What is the point that the filmmakers were trying to make?

  
Prompt 
     Currently, there is much debate about whether or not the larger and more intelligent marine mammals, such as dolphins and killer whales, should be kept in captivity at marine parks like Sea World.  The California Legislature may even be considering a new law that would make it illegal to "hold in captivity, or use, a wild-caught or captive-bred orca for performance or entertainment purposes” (Assembly Bill 2140). What are the negative consequences of keeping orcas (killer whales) in captivity? What are the possible benefits?
     We will be researching both the pros and cons of the issue. Your final project will be an argument essay   in which you present your position and evidence that supports your claim.  
     You will begin by reading to learn about this remarkable animal.

The Orca

    Orcas, also known as killer whales or blackfish, are members of a special group of marine mammals known as cetaceans. Dolphins are also in this group. Read the short informational article in National Geographic that provides some basic facts about orcas. As you read about orcas in the wild, what inferences can you make about the possible challenges of keeping this animal in captivity? 

Argument

Analyzing Arguments
Presenting an opinion, and backing that opinion with strong evidence, is of the most important writing you will ever do. Reading and analyzing the arguments of others will be of the most important reading that you do.

Today we will begin our study of argument reading and writing.

Part of an Argument:

Claim: the opinion an author gives on an issue.
What is the point the author is trying to make?

Reason and Evidence:  how does the author back up his or her claim?

Warm-Up: Teddy Wants a New Phone

If you are Red or Yellow ONLY, please make a copy "can edit" and share with your partner.

1. Finish reading and analyzing the Newsela argument:

2. Write a short summary of the argument. Remember, a summary should:
Be shorter than the original text;
Include only the most important ideas and details;
Not include your own opinion.
3. Work as a class to complete the Concept Map:

Welcome Back!

1. Open the map.  Follow the teacher's directions to mark a location on the map that you visited.

2. Go to AR to take the STAR Reading Test.
3. If you have extra time, read the Eagle Times.