Saving Ontario Turtles

Visit this online exhibit by the Granby Zoo: To the Rescure of Endangered Species

Watch this great video about Ontario at-risk turtles

SAVING ONTARIO TURTLES - A RACE AGAINST TIME
Saving Ontario Turtles: A Race Against Time introduces the eight turtle species resident to Ontario and speaks to the human behaviours that puts six of these species are risk. Educators and students will learn about the importance of turtles in our culture, the turtle lifecycle, turtle habitat, and what we all can do to protect Ontario turtles. Lesson plans are linked to an interactive quiz and game. Ontario Curriculum connections include Life Systems, Earth and Space Systems, Data Management and Probability, Number Sense and Numeration, and Drama and Dance Strands variously for JK through 12. These lesson plans can also be adapted for adult learners.

	Before You Begin: About These Lesson Plans Learn how to prepare for teaching this unit; includes Ontario Curriculum Connections. Info Sheet: Ontario Turtles This resource provides valuable information for teachers and students regarding species at risk, the importance of turtles, turtle habitat and how to help save turtles.
	Interactive Quiz: Ontario Turtles: SAR 101 Ages: 10 and up This multiple-choice quiz includes photos of eight Ontario turtle species, provides an overview of species at risk definitions, and teaches how we can all play a role in reducing turtle deaths across Ontario.

	Interactive Game: Survivor Turtle: The 1% Challenge Ages: kids of all ages! This interactive game takes players through the various life stages of a turtle and introduces them to the perils of each phase. Players must meet the challenge of protecting their turtles. It's tough being a turtle!

	Powepoint Presentation: Saving Ontario Turtles - A Race Against Time Ages: 6+ This interactive interactive presentation includes movie clips, colour images, and general information about eight Ontario turtle species. Learn how you can help save these species. Watch a snapping turtle laying eggs.

	Activity One: Horray for Habitat! Ages: 5 to 8 years Students investigate the importance of habitat in survival and protection of turtle species-at-risk. Hook: Four Seasons + One! Hands-on Activity: The Ideal Turtle Habitat Role Play Activity: Turtle Seasons - A Year in the Life of a Turtle

	Activity Two: What Are the Odds? Ages: 8 to 12 Students investigate the survival rates of turtles throughout various stages of life and the critical importance of human assistance in turtle survival. Hook: Introduction to Odds Hands-on Activity: Chances of Survival Role Play Activity: Up Against the Odds

	Activity Three: Turtle Island Ages: 8 to 12 Students investigate the interdependence of habitat components, importance of turtle habitat protection, and the similarities between human and turtle survival needs and traits Hook: The Earth on Turtle's Back (creation myth) Role Play Activity: Recreating a Turtle Eco-System Creative Writing Activity: Turtles at Risk Code of Conduct

	Activity Four: "We interrupt this broadcast..." Ages: 14 to 18 Students investigate the critical difference we can all make in the survival of Ontario turtle species and increasing turtle population numbers. Hook: The Turtle Brand Interactive Activity: Ontario Turtles - SAR 101 Multi-Media Activity: Saving Ontario Turtles

	These learning tools were produced in collaboration with the Renfrew County Stewardship Council and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources.