- Discuss how sea turtles differ from their terrestrial ancestors. Discuss how they differ from mammals that live in the sea. Both whales and sea turtles evolved from animals that originated on land. In returning to the sea, what problems did each have to overcome in order to live successfully in a marine environment?

- Lead a discussion comparing the type of a survivorship curves exhibited by humpback whales and green sea turtles. Discuss the advantages/disadvantages of both types of life history strategies.

- List all the dangers facing sea turtles today. Make another list of all the laws that currently protect sea turtles. Note which laws are being violated. As a class, discuss why this is so, and make suggestions on how to make compliance with the existing laws more effective.

- Over the course of the unit, ask students to be "on the lookout" for sea turtles when they go the beach. Have students record all observations of sea turtles, including the date, time of day, location and if they notice any tumors on the turtles they spot. Near the end of the unit, compile a class report of all data collected. Send your report to biologists at National Marine Fisheries Service. They will appreciate your help! (You could also have a contest to see who can spot the most turtles)