Jackie Robinson: Breaking Baseball's Barriers

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Fifth graders are very interested in social justice and the difference between right and wrong. Earlier this year, as part of our Reach for Reading curriculum, we learned about the significant contributions of Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglass, Cesar Chavez and others. We have had discussions about how one individual can make a difference. Today, students were thrilled to participate in a Reader's Theater play about baseball legend Jackie Robinson. Students learned that Robinson had a positive impact on much more than just sports. Here are some of their responses to the question:

What do you think was Jackie Robinson's greatest strength?

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his confidence. One reason is because he was so brave to play in the major leagues even though he was a black person. Also, he had to live with all of the protests and anger that people were giving to him. Another reason is at the end of the play Jackie says he might retire soon so he can open doors for people in all areas of life. This shows confidence too. Those were a few reasons why Jackie Robinson was confident.

by Ava L.

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his courage. I think that was his greatest strength because he knew that if joined the Brooklyn Dodgers, people might do horrible things to him, Even though he knew that would happen to him, he didn't give up. Over time people got used to him and other black baseball players playing baseball. That is why I think that Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his courage.

by Philipe R.

I think Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was making a difference in the world. I think this because when I read a play him, I learned that if he didn't join the Brooklyn Dodgers, African Americans wouldn't be able to play Major League Baseball. Jackie Robinson believed that all people are equal and he made a difference. I think that is his greatest strength.
by Leanna K.

I think that Jackie Robinson's greatest strength was his perseverance. I believe this because when things got hard, he would still keep on trying to accomplish his goal. Players even said they would strike if Robinson was allowed to play, Major League Baseball, but that didn't stop him. That's why he is remembered today for his courage and perseverance.
by Coralle F.