The Case of the Barking Dog (Clue #11)
#11 in Clue Jr. Series
What’s inside...
This novel ties in with the launch of the BBC cartoon series, The Mask, following the success of the film in the UK. Additionally, the new Clue Club kids embark on various mystery adventures, solving cases while roller-skating, attending a birthday party, and hanging out at a friend's house. Readers are encouraged to solve the cases by reading carefully and studying the pictures.
Discussion points
Why do you think the dog was barking so much, and what would you do if you were in that situation?
How did the characters work together to solve the mystery? What can we learn about teamwork from them?
What are some ways the characters showed they were good friends? How do you show friendship?
How did the story make you feel when the mystery was solved? Why is it important to solve problems?
What clues would you look for if you were a detective in this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the story by asking them to predict what might happen next and why. Discuss the characters' actions and the consequences, highlighting the moral lessons. Relate the story to real-life scenarios to help them apply the lessons learned. Use expressive reading to make the story more engaging and to emphasize important points. Lastly, praise your child’s responses to foster confidence and deeper thinking.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of problem-solving
Explanation: The protagonist uses critical thinking and deduction skills to discover why the dog is barking persistently.
Real-World Application: Children learn to approach problems methodically and think critically before arriving at conclusions, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Value of patience
Explanation: Characters in the book demonstrate patience while dealing with the mystery of the barking dog, which gradually leads them to the solution.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of being patient in frustrating situations, a skill that can help them manage emotions and stress.
Example Lesson: Importance of teamwork
Explanation: The characters collaborate and share insights to solve the mystery, highlighting the strength found in teamwork.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value collaborative efforts and shows how working together can lead to successful outcomes.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The story demonstrates how understanding the reasons behind the dog's behavior leads to empathy from the characters.
Real-World Application: Fosters an understanding among children that being empathetic towards others' feelings and situations is crucial in real-life interactions.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: Characters overcome their initial fear of the unknown related to the barking dog, demonstrating courage.
Real-World Application: Inspires children to face their own fears and understand that overcoming fear is part of growth and learning.