Lesson Plan - History Makers: Jackie Robinson

Watch a Video: The Great Jackie Robinson
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
• barred

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

1. How did segregation in baseball affect Black players in the early 1940s? 
Black baseball players were not allowed to play Major League Baseball at that time. They could play in other leagues, but they received lower pay.
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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 hard. 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.
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3. What does the expression “opened the doors” mean in the article?
“Opened the doors” means made something possible or easier. Robinson opened the doors for more Black players to join MLB by showing how good he was.
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FEATURED SKILL: Synthesize Information
Use “All About Jackie Robinson” to have students complete a biographical profile.
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