Activity Overview
Using the timeline storyboard, students can create a growth chart of a baby polar bear. The book gives specific information about the growth of the cub but you could also have your students research the life of a polar bear cub and combine the information into a concise timeline.
Before Birth
Mother polar bear makes a den to prepare for the birth of her cub.
Denning
Cubs are born between fall and winter in the den. They are small, about the size of a guinea pig, and blind. They stay in the den to stay safe and grow.
Learning
Emerge from den in late March or April. The cub is the size of a cocker spaniel. The cub plays and learns with his mom. She teaches him how to play and hunt.
Young Adult
At age two or a little older, the cub is deemed old enough and is left to live on its own. The mama polar bear prepares for a new baby.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Describe each stage in the description.
- Illustrate each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Using the timeline storyboard, students can create a growth chart of a baby polar bear. The book gives specific information about the growth of the cub but you could also have your students research the life of a polar bear cub and combine the information into a concise timeline.
Before Birth
Mother polar bear makes a den to prepare for the birth of her cub.
Denning
Cubs are born between fall and winter in the den. They are small, about the size of a guinea pig, and blind. They stay in the den to stay safe and grow.
Learning
Emerge from den in late March or April. The cub is the size of a cocker spaniel. The cub plays and learns with his mom. She teaches him how to play and hunt.
Young Adult
At age two or a little older, the cub is deemed old enough and is left to live on its own. The mama polar bear prepares for a new baby.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Describe each stage in the description.
- Illustrate each description using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and Exit
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Polar Bear Growth Stages
Use a Polar Bear Growth Timeline for Creative Writing Prompts
Incorporate the growth chart into creative writing by having students imagine a day in the life of a polar bear at each stage. This activity encourages empathy and detail-oriented thinking as students describe what a polar bear experiences as a cub, young bear, and adult.
Guide students to brainstorm sensory details for each stage
Ask students to list what a polar bear might see, hear, touch, taste, and smell in each growth stage. This helps students build vivid, engaging stories and deepens their understanding of polar bear habitats.
Model writing a short diary entry from the cub’s perspective
Show students how to write a simple diary entry as if they were a polar bear cub. Highlight feelings, challenges, and new experiences to make the writing personal and relatable.
Encourage peer sharing and feedback
Have students read their diary entries with a partner or small group. Prompt them to give positive feedback and ask questions about details that stood out or could be expanded.
Display student writing alongside growth timelines
Create a classroom display that pairs each student’s creative writing with their polar bear growth chart. This celebrates their work and reinforces the science-literacy connection for everyone to see.
Frequently Asked Questions about Polar Bear Growth Stages
What are the main stages of a polar bear's growth?
Polar bear growth stages include before birth (denning), cub (newborn and blind in the den), learning (emerging from the den and learning from the mother), and young adult (independent at around two years old).
How can I teach students about the polar bear life cycle using a timeline activity?
Have students create a timeline storyboard that details each stage of a polar bear's life, from denning to independence. Encourage them to describe each stage and illustrate with scenes, then combine facts from the book and additional research for a comprehensive chart.
At what age do polar bear cubs leave their mothers?
Polar bear cubs typically leave their mothers at around two years old, when they are considered old enough to survive on their own.
What do polar bear cubs learn from their mothers?
Polar bear cubs learn essential survival skills from their mothers, including how to play, hunt, and navigate their environment after emerging from the den.
Why do polar bears make dens before giving birth?
Mother polar bears build dens to protect their newborn cubs from harsh weather and predators, providing a safe, warm space until the cubs are strong enough to emerge.
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