How does Miranda Paul make us understand the story?

The author uses descriptive language, imagery, repetition and characterisation to help readers understand Isatou and the problems in her community. The story also explores themes such as environmental responsibility, courage, teamwork and change.

Themes present in the story:

Caring for the Environment

Isatou notices the growing number of plastic bags around her community and becomes concerned about their impact. Instead of ignoring the waste, she thinks about what can be done with it.

Question: What environmental problems do you notice in your own community?

Courage

Isatou decides to act on the plastic-bag problem even though it is something that has become normal in her community. She takes the initiative to try a different approach.

Question: When might you need courage to make a positive change?

Teamwork

Isatou does not solve the problem completely on her own. She works with other women, who help collect, clean, cut and transform the discarded plastic bags into useful products.

Question: What can people achieve together that might be difficult alone?

Creating change

Isatou's idea changes discarded plastic bags from something harmful into something useful. The women turn the bags into reusable items, creating an alternative to simply throwing them away.

Question: What is one small change you could make at home or school?

Explore the literary devices used by the author:

Literary element Role in the story
Characterisation Shows Isatou as observant, determined and willing to act when she notices the plastic problem.
Symbolism The plastic bag can represent a larger environmental problem, while transforming the bags represents hope and positive change.
Imagery Descriptions of the plastic waste help readers picture the bags around the community and understand their impact.
Tone The tone changes from concern and seriousness when the problem is introduced to hope and empowerment as Isatou and the women take action.
Repetition Repeated references to plastic bags emphasise how widespread and persistent the problem has become.
Emotive language Language describing the effects of plastic waste encourages readers to care about the environment, animals and community.
Personification Giving the plastic waste human-like qualities can make its impact seem more active and threatening.