#7 in My Weird School Series
Mr Docker Is Off His Rocker!
What’s inside...
In this hilarious novel, A.J.'s teacher Mr. Docker seems to be a mad scientist, always performing weird experiments in class. When Mr. Docker tries to build an anti-gravity machine, everyone thinks he's really lost his marbles. A.J. and his classmates will have to use their knowledge and creativity to keep their teacher grounded.
Discussion points
What did you think about Mr. Docker's quirky experiments? Which one was your favorite and why?
How do the students react to Mr. Docker's unusual teaching methods? Have you ever had a teacher who tried different approaches in the classroom?
Mr. Docker believes in making learning fun. Can you think of a time when learning was really fun for you? What made it enjoyable?
What lessons do you think the characters learned from their experiences in the story?
If you could create an experiment like Mr. Docker, what would it be about and what would you hope to discover?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing a personal story about a unique or interesting teacher you encountered in your own schooling to create a relatable connection.
Praise your child’s responses and encourage them to think deeper by asking follow-up questions to their answers.
Relate the experiments or situations from the book to real-life scenarios to make the discussion more tangible and relevant.
Encourage your child to draw or create a project based on Mr. Docker’s experiments, which can lead to further discussion and engagement with the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: Mr. Docker, a science teacher, is wildly enthusiastic about science which motivates his students to explore and engage with scientific concepts.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and delve deeper into subjects they're curious about, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The character, A.J., is skeptical of Mr. Docker’s unconventional methods and theories, pushing him to investigate and think critically.
Real-World Application: This book teaches children to evaluate information critically, not accepting facts at face value but exploring and questioning to form their own understanding.
Example Lesson: Open-mindedness
Explanation: Throughout the story, students learn to be open to new ideas and different ways of thinking presented by their eccentric teacher.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of considering and respecting diverse perspectives, aiding them in social interactions and collaborative learning environments.
Example Lesson: Importance of Education
Explanation: Mr. Docker's passion for teaching and the change in students' attitudes toward learning highlight the impact and importance of dedicated educators.
Real-World Application: This narrative encourages children to appreciate their education and the opportunities it provides for personal and intellectual growth.