Explain to children that adjectives are words used to describe nouns. Without adjectives, we could not explain some very basic ideas. Imagine if there were only verbs and nouns to describe a terrible, high-speed car crash. It would go something like this: "Two cars hit each other." How about describing the greatest day of your life: "I experienced a day." Aren't we glad we can use adjectives?

In this book, most of the adjectives sound harsh. The words aggressive, dangerous, rough, and fierce aptly describe the animals featured in the text. Ask: What do you think crocodilians are like in real life? What are some words you would use to describe them if you were writing this book?

Make sure children understand the concept of adjectives before moving on.