Out of my Mind

By: Sharon Draper
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Copyright: 2010

Melody is not your average eleven year old,  she has a photographic memory and she can remember everything she encounters. Melody is smarter than everyone in her class and even most of the adults in her life, however Melody is not able to communicate or walk. She has cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. Melody is placed in a learning community for students with disabilities, when her world changes when she starts fifth grade. Her new school begins having inclusion classroom, which allows Melody to be mainstreamed with other peers. Will Melody’s peers accept her? How will Melody communicate with her peers? 

Suggested Delivery: Independent Read or Guided Reading


Lexile Level: 700L

Key Vocabulary: photographic memory, disability, cerebral palsy, inclusion, diagnosis

Web Resources:

Meet the Author: Learn how Sharon is both a English teacher and a writer http://www.teachingbooks.net/spec_athr.cgi?pid=3640

Teachers Guide: Here is great ideas and activities for teaching this book http://books.simonandschuster.net/tagged_assets/23241_out_of_my_mind_rgg_7316.pdf

Comprehension Strategies:

Before Reading: Book Trailer http://www.booktrailersforreaders.com/Out+Of+My+Mind+Book+Trailer


During Reading: Students will have a discussion based on their readings so far, how does the title play a role in Melody's life. 

Writing: 

Put yourself in Melody's chair. Write a paper that tells what it would be like to be Melody for one day. Write about your feelings and frustrations. 

Write a descriptive paper that uses sensory imagery. Describe a specific scene and bring it to life with your words. Use vivid verbs and powerful adjectives and adverbs as you write. Use as many of the senses as you can (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste).