Objectives

Embed learning objectives into a fun turtle theme. Here are some basic learning objectives focusing on turtles: 

• Students will learn about the characteristics and habitats of turtles.
• Students will understand the life cycle of turtles.
• Students will identify different species of turtles and their unique features.

Introduction / KWL

Start with a spark! Show a real turtle or show a short video or a series of pictures about turtles.

Discover students' prior knowledge by talking about their experiences with turtles, what they know and any misconceptions. 

Use the KWL approach on large chart paper. Write what the students' (K) Know and (W) want to know. When finsihed with the unit, write what they have (L) learned about turtles. 

Snack Time!

Here's a yummy turtle snack with apple and grapes! (Icing is the glue)

Art and Dramatic Play

Make your own turtle shell. 

Managing Feelings

Talk about strong feelings and how to manage them. One of the best Turtle resources is Tucker Turtle. Tucker is a Turtle who teaches ways to calm and social skills instruction. Check out Tucker resources.

Post visuals to use in practicing and as reminders when managing strong feelings. 

Review what feelings look like and how to rate your own state of emotion. 

Here are other feelings activities. 

Making Friends

It is important to talk about how managing strong feelings and learning to solve problems help make you a good friend. 

Try a game of I Have Who Has about friendship. 

Alphabet and Phonological Awareness

Use turtles in alphabet games and visuals. 

Speech and Articulation

Turtles work well in speech and other therapies as a reminder to slow down. 

Turtles are a fun and motivating for articulation practice too!

Teaching Rules

Make visuals and small books about following rules. This story shows a turtle learning to use Zoom for remote learning. 

Reward Systems and Celebrations

Add turtles to certificates selebrating slower speech or using positive behaviors.