This children’s article, Jane Goodall, pioneering primatologist and conservationist, dies at 91, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and explore the life and work of one of the world’s most famous conservationists. Written by Sinead O’Carroll, an experienced English teacher and writer.
Who was Jane Goodall?
Jane Goodall was a British scientist who studied animals, especially chimpanzees. She was born in London on 3 April 1934. From a young age, she loved animals and wanted to learn about them. At 26, she travelled to Tanzania, an East African country, to study chimpanzees in the wild.
She made a very important discovery: chimpanzees use tools, just like humans do. She also found that they have strong social bonds and feelings, changing the way scientists thought about animals.
Her life’s work
In 1977, Jane Goodall started the Jane Goodall Institute, a group that helps protect wild animals and their homes. She also began the Roots & Shoots programme in 1991. This programme helps young people take care of animals, the environment, and their communities.
Jane travelled all over the world, speaking to children and adults about protecting nature. Her work inspired many people to care for animals and the planet.
Remembering Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall died peacefully on 1 October 2025, at the age of 91. People all over the world are remembering her kindness and her love for animals. Schools, scientists, and conservation groups continue her work today.
Jane showed that one person can make a big difference to the world and the animals we share it with.
For more information about Jane Goodall and her work, you can visit The Jane Goodall Institute.
If you’d like to read about another inspiring woman, you can read all about Marie Curie in this article written especially for students leaning English – A kids’ guide to Marie Curie: the Nobel Prize-winning scientist.
Article vocabulary list
- Chimpanzee – a type of ape that lives in Africa
- Conservationist – a person who works to protect nature
- Tools – objects used to help do a task
- Institute – an organisation for research or education
- Programme – a planned activity or project
- Wildlife – animals living in their natural environment
- Discovery – something new that is learned or found out
- Social bonds – close relationships between people or animals
- Environment – the world around us, including nature and habitats
- Inspire – to make someone want to do something good
Comprehension questions
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1. When was Jane Goodall born?
a) 3 April 1934
b) 1 October 2025
c) 26 April 1930
Answer: a) 3 April 1934
2. What animal did Jane study in the wild?
a) Gorillas
b) Chimpanzees
c) Elephants
Answer: b) Chimpanzees
3. What important discovery did Jane make about chimpanzees?
a) They can fly
b) They use tools
c) They live in deserts
Answer: b) They use tools
4. What is the name of the programme Jane started to help young people protect animals and the environment?
a) Roots & Shoots
b) Save the Planet
c) Young Explorers
Answer: a) Roots & Shoots
5. How old was Jane Goodall when she died?
a) 91
b) 85
c) 100
Answer: a) 91
6. What is one way families can help birds at home?
a) Put up bird feeders and grow insect-friendly plants
b) Chase birds from the garden
c) Play loud music for them
Answer: a) Put up bird feeders and grow insect-friendly plants
Sinead is a writer and EFL teacher with eight years’ experience. She’s a native English speaker who loves making news stories fun and easy to understand for children around the world. Her passions include travel, animals, and helping to make the world a kinder, more sustainable place.
