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e-Journal

Animal Story (p. 60)


Step 1. Questions

An ant and a whale are very different from each other. The communities in which they live are also very different. Chances are, these two animals will probably never meet. But what if they did? What would a conflict between two very different animals, such as an ant and a whale, look like?

Write a fictional story about two animals that are very different from each other. You will start by researching different kinds of animals and their communities. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • What kinds of animal communities exist on Earth?
  • What other organisms live in a community?
  • How might climate affect a community?
  • What kinds of problems might an animal face within a community?
  • How might different animals interact with each other?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites listed in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above, and write down what you learn in the note-taking boxes.

You may use search engines to research other Web sites. Or research specific animals at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your fictional narrative.

Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!


Toolbox Tip: Click here to learn how to move from one Web page to another.


What's It Like Where You Live?
At this great Web site, read all about Earth's biomes and animal communities. Choose one biome as the setting for your fictional narrative. Then, click on any of the topics at the left of your screen for interesting facts about that biome's animals, plants, and climate.
Take Notes:



Your Key to the Biomes
This site can help you choose which animals to use as characters for your fictional narrative. First, click on the biome you have chosen as your narrative's setting. Then, click on the link to that biome's list of animals. Use these facts to describe what your characters will look like and where they will live. Think about how they might behave and the conflicts they could have when they interact with others.
Take Notes:



The Web of Life
This Web site comes to you from the Defenders of Wildlife, an organization dedicated to the protection of wild animals and plants. Click on WEB OF LIFE. As you read, think about how different organisms depend on each other. Next, try clicking on GET THE FACTS to learn about endangered animals, including some of the conflicts these animals have with other animals and with the environment.
Take Notes:



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