Facts about Melody
How old is Melody?
11 years old
What is the name of Melody's younger sister?
Penny
Why do people sometimes underestimate Melody?
People assume that Melody is incapable of having her own thoughts because of the way she looks and the fact that she is in a wheelchair.
What is the name of Melody's medi-talker?
Elvira
Name one important theme in the book
example: friendship, determination, courage, self-discovery, independence
What disability does Melody have?
Cerebral Palsy
Who is Melody's neighbor that often takes care of her after school?
Mrs. V
Why is communication so important to Melody?
Melody has a multitude of thoughts racing around in her head and all she wants to do is be able to share her thoughts with the people around her. She believes words are powerful and it is one of the biggest things that prevents her from being "normal"
What is a medi-talker?
a specialized speech-generating device or software used by people who cannot speak verbally, allowing them to communicate by typing or selecting words that the machine then says out loud.
What does the book teach us about friendship?
example: the book teaches us that friendships can be challenging, but real friends stay by us no matter what.
What music does Melody enjoy listening to?
Country
Who is Melody's school aide that helps her with her basic needs?
Catherine
How does Melody show that she is intelligent even when she cannot speak?
She shows she is intelligent by competing in whiz kids and completing her assignments in her inclusion classes.
Why is Melody frustrated when people speak for her?
Melody is capable of thinking for herself, but people often make assumptions about what she wants or thinks, making it frustrating for her.
How does Melody demonstrate determination?
example: through studying for the whiz kids team, flipping herself over (when she was younger), enduring the mean comments from her peers.
What is the name of the school Melody goes to?
Spaulding Street Elementary School
Which student becomes Melody’s friend and helps her feel included at school?
Rose
What does the book teach readers about making assumptions about other people?
It teaches us to not judge people by their outward appearances, but instead, give them a chance to show what is on the inside
How does having a communication device change Melody's life?
It allows her to communicate with those around her and participate in things like the whiz kids team.
What does the story teach us about inclusion?
example: it teaches us the importance of including EVERYONE and making people around us feel welcome.
What is the name of Melody's condition where music triggers vivid colors, images, and textures in her mind?
Synesthesia
Choose one character who treated Melody unfairly. Give one example of what they did.
example: the doctor at the beginning of the story; he thought Melody was incapable of thinking for herself and did not believe she was capable of doing anything by herself
If you could give Melody one piece of advice at the beginning of the story, what would you tell her? Explain why.
example: Melody should be herself and be proud of who she is
Why do you think the title Out of My Mind is a good title for the book?
example: Melody has so many words and thoughts stuck inside her head that she so badly wants to share with the world, it is almost driving her "out of her mind"
What is the most important lesson you think readers should take away from Melody’s story? Explain your answer.
example: readers should remember the importance of including others, no matter their differences from each other. EVERYONE deserves to feel kindness and feel welcome