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Ruby Bridges and the Little Rock Nine — Reading Comprehension

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D2.HIS.2.3-5
D2.HIS.14.3-5
RI.4.3
RI.4.4
RI.5.3
RI.5.4

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This engaging history reading passage explores the stories of Ruby Bridges and the Little Rock Nine, two important groups of students who helped change schools in the United States. Students will learn about school integration and the bravery it took to challenge unfair laws. The passage uses simple language and a clear sequence to help young readers understand how these students made a difference. It includes a glossary of key terms, a timeline of important events, and activities that build reading and writing skills. The content aligns with the C3 Framework and Common Core standards, making it perfect for classroom use. Students can listen to the passage with read aloud audio and read a Spanish translation for bilingual learning. With multiple choice questions, writing prompts, and a timeline activity, this resource helps students connect the past to the present while building literacy and historical thinking.

CONTENT PREVIEW

US Marshals with Young Ruby Bridges on School Steps - Original.jpg
Source: Wikimedia Commons - Uncredited DOJ photographer

In 1957, nine Black students became known as the Little Rock Nine. They were the first Black students to attend Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. Before this, schools in many parts of the United States were segregated. This means Black and white students went to different schools.

In 1954, the Supreme Court ruled in a case called Brown v. Board of Education that segregation in public schools was unfair and illegal. Schools had to become integrated, which means students of all races could learn together. But some states did not want to change.

Three years later, in September 1957, Central High School was chosen for integration. The nine Black students were chosen because of their good grades and strong character. Their names were Elizabeth Eckford, Ernest Green, Minnijean Brown, Melba Pattillo, Carlotta Walls, Terrence Roberts, Gloria Ray, Thelma Mothershed, and Jefferson Thomas.

When the Little Rock Nine tried to enter Central High School, they faced angry crowds. Many people did not want Black students at the school. The governor of Arkansas, Orval Faubus, ordered soldiers to block the students from entering.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower sent federal soldiers to protect the Little Rock Nine. With the soldiers’ help, the students finally walked into Central High School on September 25, 1957. They showed great courage and did not give up, even when people yelled at them and treated them badly.

The Little Rock Nine went to school every day under the protection of soldiers. They studied hard, even though it was often scary. Their actions helped change schools across the country. They became symbols of equality and hope for fair education.

The bravery of the Little Rock Nine led to more schools being integrated. Their story showed that young people could make a big difference in the fight for civil rights. Today, their courage is remembered as a key moment in American history.

Interesting Fact: Ernest Green was the first Black student to graduate from Central High School. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. attended his graduation.

What year did the Little Rock Nine go to Central High?

1957196419451980

How many students made up the Little Rock Nine?

NineFiveTwelveSeven

Which school did the Little Rock Nine attend?

Central High SchoolWest High SchoolEast Middle SchoolSouth Elementary

Why did the governor send soldiers to the school?

To block the studentsTo help the studentsFor a paradeTo teach a class

What did President Eisenhower do?

Sent federal soldiersClosed the schoolGave a speechVisited the students

What is school integration?

Students of all races learn togetherOnly Black students in schoolOnly white students in schoolStudents study at home