Hope Jones Clears the Air
#2 of 3 in Hope Jones Series
What’s inside...
Hope Jones hates cars because they cause air pollution that affects the health of her community, including her friend Selma who has asthma. Hope's own health is impacted as well, with her bogeys turning black instead of green. Determined to make a change, Hope starts a blog and organizes protests to raise awareness about the issue. Despite the preoccupation of adults with their own lives, Hope is committed to making a difference and clearing the air by targeting the root cause: cars.
Discussion points
What do you think inspired Hope to become an environmental activist?
How do you feel about the way Hope tries to make a change in her community? What would you do differently?
What are some ways we can help the environment like Hope does?
How do the reactions of other characters in the book influence Hope's actions and what does it teach us about teamwork?
Why is it important to care about air pollution and its effects on our health?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts on the environmental issues mentioned in the book to show it’s a shared concern.
Ask your child to come up with one idea to improve the environment in your own community, mirroring Hope's actions.
Encourage your child to think critically by discussing the different perspectives of the characters in the book toward environmental issues.
Connect themes in the book with real-world examples or news about environmental activism that you can explore together.
Praise any environmentally friendly habits your child may already practice, linking them to Hope’s activities to reinforce their importance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Environmental Responsibility
Explanation: Hope Jones, the protagonist, passionately campaigns against plastic pollution, demonstrating her commitment by blogging and influencing her community to reduce plastic usage.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to participate in recycling programs, engage in clean-up drives, or simply reduce their use of single-use plastics at home and school.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Advocacy
Explanation: Throughout the book, Hope confronts various challenges but remains determined to fight for her cause. This illustrates the importance of persistence in advocacy.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of persistence in achieving goals, whether in school projects or personal interests, and standing up for what they believe is right.
Example Lesson: Use of Technology for Social Good
Explanation: Hope uses her blog as a platform to spread awareness about environmental issues. It shows the positive use of technology and social media.
Real-World Application: Children can utilize digital platforms to learn and share knowledge about causes important to them, fostering a sense of global citizenship.
Example Lesson: Community Engagement
Explanation: By mobilizing her school and local community, Hope exemplifies how collective efforts can make a significant impact.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to participate in or initiate community-focused events, such as local clean-ups or charity drives, enhancing their social responsibility.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Hope critically assesses the impact of plastics and researches alternatives, showing the importance of informed decision making.
Real-World Application: Teach children to question and research before making decisions, promoting a habit of informed thinking and responsible choices.