NYPD Blue: The Blue Beginnings (Penguin Reader Level 3)
#1 of 109 in All Aboard Reading Series
on Goodreads (31)
What’s inside...
Based on the TV series 'NYPD Blue', this story introduces the beginning of the partnership between Detectives Andy Sipowtiz and John Kelly of Manhattan's 15th Precinct. 'Penguin Readers' is a series designed to help students of all levels enjoy reading in English, with simplified novels, film novelizations, and original titles. The series is graded at seven levels of difficulty and includes exercises focused on vocabulary, comprehension, discussion, and writing. Some titles are available with accompanying audio cassettes or in book and cassette packs, and selected titles have free 'Penguin Readers Factsheets' for additional educational material.
Discussion points
What do you think motivated the characters to become NYPD officers?
How do the characters show bravery and teamwork throughout the story?
What challenges do the characters face and how do they overcome them?
How do the characters' experiences in the book compare to what you think being a real police officer is like?
What did you learn about helping and protecting the community from this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the story's events and characters. Use these discussions to delve into the importance of community roles and responsibilities. Highlight the virtues of courage and teamwork depicted in the book. Ask your child how they might act in similar situations, fostering empathy and moral reasoning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In NYPD Blue: The Blue Beginnings, characters like Officer Collins demonstrate responsibility by consistently performing their duties and helping the community.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of fulfilling their responsibilities, whether it's doing their homework, cleaning up after play, or assisting in household tasks.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The police officers in the book work together to solve cases, showcasing how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to cooperate with others in group activities at school or in sports, understanding that teamwork can achieve greater results than working alone.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Characters in the book face dangerous situations bravely, teaching readers about the value of courage in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears whether it's trying out for a school play, standing up against a bully, or taking on new challenges.
Example Lesson: Integrity
Explanation: Throughout the book, Officer Collins and his team make ethically sound decisions, highlighting the importance of integrity.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of honesty and making morally correct decisions, even when it might be difficult.
Example Lesson: Respect for Law and Order
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of laws and the role police play in maintaining peace and order.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by following rules at home, in school, and in public places, recognizing that these rules help society function smoothly.