Once upon a time, in the deep blue ocean, there lived a group of pinnipeds who loved to bask in the sun. But every year, they had to migrate to find food. As they swam, they encountered many predators like sharks and seals, who were always looking for their next meal.

The pinnipeds had a secret weapon: their thick layer of blubber. It kept them warm in the cold ocean water and protected them from the sharp teeth of predators. But as the seasons changed, they needed to molt, or shed their old skin, to make room for new growth.

One day, a young pinniped named Marina found herself separated from her group during a migration. She was scared, but she remembered her blubber and her ability to swim fast. She swam for days, avoiding predators and searching for her family.

Finally, she reached a place called "haul out," where many pinnipeds rested on rocks and ate fish. Marina was overjoyed to be reunited with her family and to learn that this was a safe haven from predators. From then on, Marina and her group migrated to the haul out every year, molting and basking in the sun, protected by their blubber and strength. The end.

Reflections

1. Why did Marina and her family have to migrate every year?
2. How did Marina's blubber protect her from predators?
3. What did Marina learn about migration and safety during her adventure?
4. Why was "haul out" such a special place for Marina and her family?