The Contagious Colors of Mumpley Middle School
#1 in Wilmer Dooley Series
What’s inside...
When a mysterious illness sweeps through the school, causing students to change color, sixth-grade scientist Wilmer Dooley tries to find the cause and cure. Wilmer's investigation takes him on a wild ride filled with entertaining twists and nutty characters as he attempts to solve this bizarre phenomenon.
Discussion points
How do you think Wilmer felt when he first realized colors were changing among his classmates? What would you do in his situation?
What are some ways the students at Mumpley Middle School handled the mystery? Can you think of any other methods they might have used?
Which character did you relate to the most and why?
Did the resolution of the story surprise you? What were your thoughts on how the mystery was solved?
How do you think teamwork played a part in solving the Mumpley Middle School mystery?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight connections between the book and your child’s school experiences to make the discussion more relatable.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or plot twists to foster creative thinking.
Discuss the importance of collaboration and teamwork as depicted in the book, relating it back to everyday situations your child might encounter.
Validate your child's feelings and thoughts as they express their opinions about the characters and the plot to encourage open communication.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The story demonstrates empathy through the character of Wilmer, who seeks to understand the bizarre illnesses affecting his classmates rather than jumping to conclusions or alienating them.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be more understanding and considerate towards peers who may be different or experiencing challenges, promoting a more inclusive environment at school or in other social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Wilmer and his friends work together to solve the mystery of the contagious colors, showcasing how collaboration can lead to solving problems that seem insurmountable individually.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to value teamwork and cooperation, skills that are essential in group projects at school and in extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Explanation: The protagonist uses scientific methods and critical thinking to investigate the cause of the colorful epidemic, demonstrating an analytical approach to problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to employ logical thinking and scientific inquiry in their daily life when faced with problems or curious phenomena, enhancing their analytical skills.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The peculiar scenario of colorful illnesses sparks creative solutions from the students, highlighting creativity's role in overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and use their creativity to navigate through various challenges and artistic endeavors in their life.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Integrity
Explanation: Throughout the book, characters learn the importance of honesty and taking responsibility for their actions, even when they face consequences.
Real-World Application: This lesson instills the values of honesty and responsibility in children, teaching them to own up to their actions and learn from their mistakes in real-life situations.