My Weird School #4: Ms. Hannah Is Bananas!
#4 of 21 in My Weird School Series
What’s inside...
In the fourth book of the My Weird School series, art teacher Ms. Hannah introduces A.J. and the gang to her unconventional art style, wearing dresses made of potholders and collecting garbage. She even pairs A.J. with his nemesis, Andrea, for a drawing project. This chapter book is a great pick for children ages 6 to 10 who are ready to read independently, and is part of the wildly popular series that has sold over 30 million copies. With more than 30 million books sold, the My Weird School series really gets kids reading! In the fourth book of the original My Weird School series, art teacher Ms. Hannah shows A.J. and the gang that art is everywhere! She wears dresses made out of potholders and collects garbage instead of throwing it out. But worst of all, she makes A.J. draw a picture with smelly, tattletale Andrea! Perfect for reluctant readers and word lovers alike, Dan Gutman’s insanely popular My Weird School series has something for everyone. Don’t miss any of the hilarious adventures of A.J. and the gang—from Weird, to Weirder, to Weirder-est! This chapter book is an excellent choice to share with children ages 6 to 10 who are ready to read independently.
Discussion points
Why do you think Ms. Hannah behaves the way she does in the classroom? Do you think she brings fun or confusion?
What would you do if you were in A.J.’s place when Ms. Hannah introduced unconventional learning methods?
How did Ms. Hannah's teaching style affect the students' interest in learning more about subjects like history or art?
If you could create a fun classroom activity, what would it be and why?
How do you think the story would change if Ms. Hannah followed a traditional teaching method?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions about the characters and their actions without judgment. This fosters critical thinking. Relate the unconventional teaching methods in the book to any creative or different methods they’ve encountered in school. Discuss the importance of learning styles, and how different approaches can be beneficial. Connect themes from the book with real-life situations to help your child draw parallels and deepen understanding. Ask your child how humor and fun can aid in learning, making them think about the balance between entertainment and education.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of creativity
Explanation: In the book, Ms. Hannah encourages her students to think outside the box and embrace creative projects, showing that creativity can lead to exciting and productive outcomes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to apply creativity in their everyday problem solving or in expressing themselves through art, writing, and play, fostering innovative thinking from a young age.
Example Lesson: Respecting differences
Explanation: Ms. Hannah's unconventional teaching methods are initially met with resistance, but the students come to appreciate her unique approach, learning that differences can be strengths.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be open to and respectful of people who may think or act differently than they do, helping them develop empathy and social skills.
Example Lesson: The value of learning from mistakes
Explanation: Throughout the story, students make mistakes in their creative endeavors but are encouraged by Ms. Hannah to view these as learning opportunities.
Real-World Application: Children are taught that mistakes are part of the learning process and can use this understanding to approach challenges with resilience and determination in their own lives.