Classroom Resources  
Student Article

Elephants Call Each Other by Name, Study Finds

By: Helen Pilcher
Originally Published in  Discover Wildlife

New research shows that wild African elephants may use unique names to identify each other, revealing advanced thinking and social skills.

The article "Elephants Call Each Other by Name, Study Finds" from BBC's Discover Wildlife reveals that wild African elephants may use special sounds like names to call one another. Researchers found that elephants respond more when their name is called, suggesting they recognize and understand it. This discovery shows elephants may be capable of abstract thinking, like humans.
Student Article Info

BBC's Discover Wildlife brings you closer to nature with expert advice, conservation news, the best nature writing and stunning wildlife photography. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Grades:
Subject:
A herd of elephants
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

1
Level 1 Reading Passage
Grades: 3-5Lexile Level: 500-600L
Preview
2
Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 700-900L
Preview
3
Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1000-1200L
Preview
Share: