Activity Overview
A great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from The Story of Ruby Bridges.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text. The sentences and images validate both their understanding of the word and how it was used in context of the story.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words for The Story of Ruby Bridges
- persuade
- marshal
- irritate
- equal
- equality
- fair
- separate
- include
- exclude
- bravery
- courage
- civil rights
- law
- segregated
- desegregate
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
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in The Story of Ruby Bridges by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
Activity Overview
A great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from The Story of Ruby Bridges.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text. The sentences and images validate both their understanding of the word and how it was used in context of the story.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words for The Story of Ruby Bridges
- persuade
- marshal
- irritate
- equal
- equality
- fair
- separate
- include
- exclude
- bravery
- courage
- civil rights
- law
- segregated
- desegregate
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
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in The Story of Ruby Bridges by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
How Tos about The Story of Ruby Bridges Visual Vocabulary
Organize a vocabulary word wall for The Story of Ruby Bridges
Display key vocabulary on a classroom wall or bulletin board, grouping words by theme or concept. This helps students see connections and supports ongoing reference.
Invite students to contribute new words from their reading
Encourage students to add unfamiliar or interesting words they find in the text to the word wall. This fosters ownership and active vocabulary building.
Facilitate daily word review activities
Lead quick review games, such as word matching or charades, using the words on the wall. Regular practice boosts retention and engagement.
Connect vocabulary words to students’ lives
Ask students to share real-life examples or experiences related to each word. Personal connections deepen understanding and relevance.
Celebrate vocabulary growth at the end of the unit
Host a reflection session where students review the word wall, discuss their favorite words, and recognize their progress. This reinforces learning and builds confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Story of Ruby Bridges Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for The Story of Ruby Bridges?
A visual vocabulary board for The Story of Ruby Bridges is an engaging activity where students choose key vocabulary words from the story, define them, use each in a sentence, and illustrate their meaning with drawings or images. This helps reinforce understanding of important terms within the story’s context.
How can I teach vocabulary from The Story of Ruby Bridges to 2nd or 3rd graders?
To teach vocabulary from The Story of Ruby Bridges to 2nd or 3rd graders, have students pick words from the text, look up their definitions, write example sentences, and create illustrations for each word. This hands-on approach builds comprehension and makes learning fun and memorable.
What are some example vocabulary words from The Story of Ruby Bridges?
Common vocabulary words from The Story of Ruby Bridges include persuade, marshal, equal, segregated, desegregate, bravery, courage, civil rights, and exclude. These words help students discuss the book’s key themes.
Why is using images with vocabulary words effective for student learning?
Pairing images with vocabulary words helps students visualize meanings, connect new words to prior knowledge, and retain information longer. Visual aids make abstract concepts more concrete, especially for younger learners and visual thinkers.
What steps should students follow to create a visual vocabulary board for this story?
Students should: 1) Choose three vocabulary words from The Story of Ruby Bridges, 2) Find their definitions, 3) Write a sentence using each word, and 4) Illustrate each word’s meaning with drawings or relevant images. This process deepens understanding and encourages creativity.
More Storyboard That Activities
Story of Ruby Bridges, The
Testimonials
“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
