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e-Journal

Save the Koala Bears (p. 170)


Step 1. Questions

The author of the persuasive paragraph tells about the importance of saving koala bears from extinction. Other living things are endangered, too. An endangered species is a living thing that might not be around much longer. Cheetahs, whooping cranes, and Pacific killer whales are examples of endangered species.

Write a persuasive essay about the importance of saving an endangered animal. To do so, you will research animals that are endangered. Here are some questions to guide your research:
  • What are some endangered or threatened animals around the world?
  • Why is the animal I chose endangered?
  • What is being done to save the animal?
  • What will happen if the animal is not saved?
  • How can I convince people that the animal should be saved?
Are you ready? Begin by visiting the Web sites listed in Step 2. Look for answers to the questions above. Write down what you learn in the boxes.
With teacher supervision, you may use search engines to research other Web sites. Or research endangered animals at the library. When you are ready, follow Steps 3 and 4 to write your persuasive essay.



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 what to do when a Web page gives an error message.


Endangered Species
This Web site has plenty of information about endangered species and how they came to be endangered. You can start by clicking ENDANGERED SPECIES PROFILES. Be sure to click CAUSES OF ENDANGERMENT and WHY SAVE ENDANGERED SPECIES. Also, click WAYS YOU CAN HELP ENDANGERED SPECIES to learn how you can lend a hand!

Take Notes:



Kids' Planet: Species Animal Fact Sheets
This site is an excellent source of information on animals that are endangered or threatened worldwide. Click the name of an animal that interests you. You will find facts about the animal's history, threats to its survival, and its current status. This site comes from the environmental group Defenders of Wildlife.
Take Notes:



Endangered Means There's Still Time
The National Conservation Training Center offers this slide show about endangered species and how people are trying to save them. Click NEXT to start the slide show. While you are reading, think about things that you can do to save endangered species. If you would like to see what you have learned, take the quiz after the slide show.
Take Notes:



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