Famous Americans and Their Contributions
Session 5: Contributions of Jackie Robinson

Materials

• Teacher-selected book about Jackie Robinson

Instructional Activities

1. Show students a picture or poster of Jackie Robinson. Ask students what they already know about him. Write their responses on a KWL chart about Jackie Robinson. The following Web sites may be helpful:
   •    A collection of graphic organizers to be used in the unit <http://www.eduplace.com/graphicorganizer/>  
   
   
2. Ask the students what they would like to learn about Jackie Robinson, and post their responses under the “What We Want to Know” section of the KWL chart.
   
   
3. Read a teacher-selected book about Jackie Robinson, and follow with a discussion. Have students use a variety of graphic organizers to arrange information from the book. Follow with another class discussion about Jackie Robinson.
   
   
4. Add information with students to the KWL chart on “What We Learned.” Be sure to include the following:
   •    Jackie Robinson was the first African American player in major league baseball.
   •    Jackie Robinson’s actions helped to bring about other opportunities for African Americans.
   
   
5. Help students research additional information about Jackie Robinson using resource materials/Web sites/videos.
   
   
6. Discuss the quote by Jackie Robinson, “I never had it easy.” Ask the students why they think Jackie Robinson made this statement.
   
   
7. Complete the “What We Learned” section of the KWL chart with students.