The+Story+of+Ruby+Bridges+Reinforcing+Activity

After reading this book aloud to the class, discuss with your students, the ways in which Ruby was a leader. Ask your students what they think it means to be a leader and ask them to provide specific examples from the text that prove that Ruby acted as a leader. Explain to students that even as a small child she contributed to civil rights, equality, and desegregation. Next, have your students fill out the venn diagram below. Instruct students to compare Ruby to Martin Luther King Jr. Students should compare components such as their leadership styles and their influence on the United States and the ways in which they influenced those around them. Students should be instructed that they should think critically and not for example list traits such as "they were both African American", or "one is a man and the other is a girl." After students have about 15 -20 minutes to write individually, instruct them to share with their neighbors and add any traits to their diagrams if needed. Next, engage students in a whole-class discussion and create a class created venn diagram on the overhead, smart board, white board, or chalkboard. Modeling a complete venn diagram allows students to add to their graphic organizers and adjust any errors. Also discuss how this conflict led to cultural patterns that are evident today.



K-2 Benchmark D: Recognize that the actions of individuals make a difference, and relate to the stories of people from diverse backgrounds who have contributed to the heritage of the United States.