Activity Overview
Many themes are present in the book. Students can pick a theme to explore and should support their choice with specific details or events from the text. One prominent theme is bravery. Ruby was a very brave young girl to be able to walk to school through the angry mobs every day.
Bravery
Ruby walked every day into her school, even though there were mobs of people shouting at her. Her teacher was amazed at Ruby's bravery.
"‘Sometimes I'd look at her and wonder how she did it,’ said Mrs. Henry. ‘How she went by those mobs and sat here all by herself and yet seemed so relaxed and comfortable.’"
Some other themes present in this story are courage, faith, hope, compassion, and equality.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies themes in Ruby Bridges. Illustrate each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the theme(s) from Ruby Bridges you wish to include and replace the "Theme 1" text.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified and described. | Some themes are correctly identified. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples of Theme(s) | All examples support the identified theme(s). | Most examples fit the identified theme(s). | Most examples do not fit the theme(s). |
| Illustrate Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme(s). | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
Activity Overview
Many themes are present in the book. Students can pick a theme to explore and should support their choice with specific details or events from the text. One prominent theme is bravery. Ruby was a very brave young girl to be able to walk to school through the angry mobs every day.
Bravery
Ruby walked every day into her school, even though there were mobs of people shouting at her. Her teacher was amazed at Ruby's bravery.
"‘Sometimes I'd look at her and wonder how she did it,’ said Mrs. Henry. ‘How she went by those mobs and sat here all by herself and yet seemed so relaxed and comfortable.’"
Some other themes present in this story are courage, faith, hope, compassion, and equality.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies themes in Ruby Bridges. Illustrate each theme and write a short description below each cell.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Identify the theme(s) from Ruby Bridges you wish to include and replace the "Theme 1" text.
- Create an image for an example that represents this theme.
- Write a description of each of the examples.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Identify Theme(s) | All themes are correctly identified and described. | Some themes are correctly identified. | No themes are correctly identified. |
| Examples of Theme(s) | All examples support the identified theme(s). | Most examples fit the identified theme(s). | Most examples do not fit the theme(s). |
| Illustrate Theme | Images clearly show connection with the theme(s). | Some images help to show the theme. | Images do not help in understanding the theme. |
How Tos about The Story of Ruby Bridges Theme
Organize a classroom discussion on bravery using Ruby Bridges’ story
Invite students to share their thoughts and feelings about bravery as shown by Ruby. Encourage them to connect the story to their own lives by asking guiding questions, helping everyone feel included and respected.
Prompt students to identify acts of courage in their daily lives
Ask students to think about times when they or someone they know showed courage, big or small. Have them jot down or share examples, reinforcing that courage can be found in everyday actions.
Facilitate a creative art project illustrating bravery
Provide art materials and encourage each student to draw or collage a scene that represents bravery, either from Ruby Bridges’ story or their own experiences. Display their work to celebrate diverse perspectives.
Guide students to write a short reflection about standing up for others
Have students write a few sentences about a time they stood up for someone or saw someone do so. This helps them connect personally to the theme and builds empathy.
Encourage students to role-play scenarios showing compassion and equality
Set up brief skits where students act out situations from the book or their own ideas that demonstrate compassion and equality. Discuss how these values support a positive classroom community.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Story of Ruby Bridges Theme
What is the main theme of The Story of Ruby Bridges?
The main theme of The Story of Ruby Bridges is bravery. Ruby showed remarkable courage by attending an all-white school despite facing angry crowds, highlighting the importance of standing up for equality and justice.
How can students identify themes in The Story of Ruby Bridges?
Students can identify themes by looking for repeated ideas or messages in the story. They should support their chosen theme with specific details or events, like Ruby's daily walk through angry mobs or her ability to stay calm in difficult situations.
What are some examples of bravery shown by Ruby Bridges?
Examples of bravery include Ruby walking to school every day despite the protests, staying composed in class, and being the only student in her classroom. Her actions inspired her teacher and others around her.
Why is compassion an important theme in The Story of Ruby Bridges?
Compassion is important because it shows how people, like Ruby's teacher, cared for her and supported her during tough times. It also encourages students to be kind and understanding toward others facing challenges.
How can teachers use storyboards to teach themes from Ruby Bridges?
Teachers can have students create a storyboard to illustrate and describe different themes from the book. This activity helps students visualize key moments and better understand messages like bravery, hope, and equality.
More Storyboard That Activities
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