Lesson Plan - History Makers: Jackie Robinson

Watch a Video: Competing for Equality
Discuss: Based on the video, how did Jackie Robinson help change America?

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know. 

• segregation
• activists

Set a Purpose for Reading
Point out the “As You Read” question and have students note obstacles Robinson faced in 1947.

1. How did segregation in baseball affect Black players from the 1880s to the 1940s?
Black players were not allowed to play Major League Baseball at that time. They could play in other leagues, but they faced poor conditions and received less pay.
^{RI.3 Cause/Effect}

2. What was Jackie Robinson’s first season in Major League Baseball like? Use details from the article.
Robinson’s first season in MLB was difficult. He received death threats because of his skin color, and other players insulted him. He often was not allowed to stay at the same hotels as his teammates.
^{RI.1 Text Evidence}

3. What does the expression “opened baseball’s doors” mean?
“Opened baseball’s doors” means made the sport possible or easier to join. Robinson opened the doors for more Black players to join MLB by showing how good he was. 
^{L.5 Figurative Language}

FEATURED SKILL: Synthesize Information
Use “All About Jackie Robinson” to have students complete a biographical profile. 
^{RI.1 Text Evidence}