#1 in My Weird School Series
Ms Todd Is Odd!
2006 by
on Goodreads (1,607)
What’s inside...
The weirdness never stops in the fourth grade! A.J. and his classmates conjecture that their teacher, Ms. Todd, hides a secret life after noticing her unusual behavior.
Why read this book
- Exciting adventure stimulates curiosity and imagination.
- Encourages creative problem-solving skills in young readers.
- Engages young minds with humorous, relatable school scenarios.
- Supports language development and enhances vocabulary.
The Big Picture
- Celebrates uniqueness and diversity in a fun way.
- Encourages empathy and understanding of different personalities.
- Promotes inclusivity in school and community settings.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases a variety of student backgrounds and personalities.
- Promotes acceptance of diverse characters and unusual behaviors.
- Encourages embracing individual differences among peers.
Book in series
#1
Age
6-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
developing
Character Compass
Discussion points
How did AJ and the other students react to Ms. Todd’s unusual ways of teaching and can you think of a time when something new or different happened at your school?
What do you think the story tells us about accepting people who are different from us?
Ms. Todd uses magic in the classroom. If you could use magic at school, what would you do and why?
How did the students change their opinions of Ms. Todd by the end of the book?
What lesson did you learn from Ms. Todd Is Odd!?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reactions to the book’s events and characters to show openness and encourage your child to express their thoughts freely.
Ask your child to draw or act out their favorite scene. This can help them articulate their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s personal experiences at school or with friends to deepen their understanding and personal connection.
Encourage your child to think about how characters’ perceptions changed throughout the book and relate it to the importance of keeping an open mind.
What parents love
Engaging mystery keeps kids guessing!
Perfect blend of humor and education.
Sensitive handling of unique behaviors.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Embrace uniqueness
Explanation: In 'Ms. Todd Is Odd!', Ms. Todd's unconventional teaching methods and odd personality traits are initially met with confusion and hesitation by her students. However, the children soon learn to appreciate her unique approach and understand that different doesn't mean wrong.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect the differences in others around them, whether it be classmates, teachers, or family members, fostering an inclusive and accepting environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of open-mindedness
Explanation: As the story progresses, the students start to see the benefits of Ms. Todd's unusual tactics. They realize that being open-minded to new ideas and different people can lead to fun and learning.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to approach new experiences and unfamiliar situations with curiosity and positivity, rather than fear or prejudice.
Example Lesson: Value of creativity in learning
Explanation: Ms. Todd uses creative methods and tools to engage her students. This not only makes learning enjoyable but also helps the students grasp complex subjects easily.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to use their imagination and creativity both in academic settings and in problem-solving in daily life, enhancing their cognitive skills and adaptability.