Student Activities for The Story of Ruby Bridges
Essential Questions for The Story of Ruby Bridges
- How did the actions of Ruby Bridges and her family shape the history of the United States?
- What can you do to make the world a better place?
The Story of Ruby Bridges Summary
Ruby Bridges’ family moved from Mississippi to New Orleans in 1957 during the Civil Rights Movement. Her family was very poor and her mother and father worked long hours to provide for their family. The family was very religious and went to church every Sunday. In New Orleans, black children and white children went to separate schools. This was not right and against the nation’s law. In 1960, a judge ordered Ruby and a few other black girls to attend white elementary schools. Ruby had to attend William Frantz Elementary School, alone. Large crowds of angry people gathered around Frantz Elementary on Ruby’s first day. They yelled names at her, held signs, and some even wanted to hurt her. She was ushered by federal marshals through the crowds and into the school.
The routine of walking through mobs to get to school lasted for months. Yet, Ruby never got discouraged. Even though she was the only student in the room, as white families did not want to send their children to school with black students, Ruby’s determination to learn never faltered. She walked into Franz Elementary and into the empty classrooms every day, ready to learn from her teacher, Mrs. Henry. Ruby would pray everyday for the angry protesters to change their views. One day she forgot to pray before she reached the angry mobs, so she stopped right in front of them and said a prayer.
Eventually white children started joining Ruby at school and the angry mobs disappeared. Children of all races began to attend schools in New Orleans, together.
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How Tos about The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
Create a classroom discussion about courage and empathy using Ruby Bridges' story
Encourage students to share what courage and empathy mean to them. Connect these concepts to Ruby's experiences by asking students how she showed bravery and kindness, and how they might do the same. Facilitate open dialogue to help students relate personally.
Introduce Ruby Bridges with a short video or read-aloud
Use a video clip or read excerpts from The Story of Ruby Bridges to spark interest and give context. Visuals and storytelling help students connect emotionally and set the stage for deeper discussion.
Ask students to reflect on times they showed courage or empathy
Invite students to write or share stories about a moment when they acted bravely or kindly. Relating Ruby's story to their own lives fosters understanding and personal growth.
Guide students to create posters celebrating courage and empathy
Have students design posters that show examples of courage and empathy from Ruby Bridges' story or their own experiences. Display their artwork in the classroom to reinforce positive values.
Wrap up with a group reflection on making a difference
Lead a closing discussion where students share one way they can make their school or community better by showing courage or empathy. Encourage actionable ideas to inspire real change.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
What is 'The Story of Ruby Bridges' about?
'The Story of Ruby Bridges' tells the true story of Ruby Bridges, one of the first African-American children to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans after desegregation. The book highlights her courage and the challenges she faced during the Civil Rights Movement.
How can I teach 'The Story of Ruby Bridges' to my elementary students?
To teach 'The Story of Ruby Bridges', use read-alouds, discussions on bravery and equality, and interactive activities like role playing and timeline creation. Focus on empathy and historical context to help students relate to Ruby’s experiences.
What lesson activities work well with 'The Story of Ruby Bridges'?
Effective lesson activities include story sequencing, character analysis, drawing or writing about courage, and exploring the impact of Ruby’s actions on history. Group discussions and reflection journals are also highly engaging for students.
Why is Ruby Bridges important in U.S. history?
Ruby Bridges symbolizes the fight for racial equality and the courage of young people in the face of adversity. Her actions helped pave the way for desegregation in schools and inspired future generations to stand up for justice.
What are some essential questions to ask when reading 'The Story of Ruby Bridges'?
Key questions include: How did Ruby Bridges and her family shape history? and What can you do to make the world a better place? These questions encourage critical thinking and personal reflection among students.
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