Overview and Outcomes:

This is a 3-week Writing Root for The Last Bear by Hannah Gold in which children use the text to explore a range of genres and styles of writing.  One of the key elements of this text is the way it weaves a gripping tale with important messages relating to the environment and climate change.  Within this context, children will explore the main characters and their environment by writing in role, creating dialogue and writing scientifically about polar bears.  The sequence of learning culminates in children becoming journalists to write a newspaper report about a key event in the story and taking the opportunity to highlight important environmental messages to the reader. 

Synopsis of Text:

There are no polar bears left on Bear Island. At least, that’s what April’s father tells her when his scientific research takes them to this remote Arctic outpost for six months. But one endless summer night, April meets one. He is starving, lonely and a long way from home. Determined to save him, April begins the most important journey of her life…

This moving story will win the hearts of children the world over and show them that no one is too young or insignificant to make a difference. The Last Bear is a celebration of the love between a child and an animal, a battle cry for our world and an irresistible adventure with a heart as big as a bear’s.

Text Rationale:

This text links a gripping story with important social issues relating to the environment and climate change.  Children will be able to explore these important topics through the eyes of the main character while also considering the experiences and prospects of the animals affected.  Themes of kindness and adventure are explored, as well as the importance of fighting for what you believe in. 

Links and Themes:

Polar bears, extinction, environmentalism, climate, standing up for your beliefs

Date written: August 2021

Date updated: May 2025