Ruby Bridges: A Lesson in Courage, History, and Social Change

A Kai XR Adventure

ruby bridges lesson

About This Adventure

What does it take to be a pioneer for change? In 1960, Ruby Bridges made history as the first African American student to desegregate her all-white elementary school. Her courage and determination became a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement and an inspiration for generations to come.

In this Learning Adventure, students will take a virtual field trip to experience Ruby’s story firsthand and reflect on what it means to be a changemaker. This activity is perfect for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, SEL lessons, and social studies or ELA units.

Use This Adventure for
Free with Your Class!

For quick access, log in with Clever or Classlink.

What Makes This Adventure A Must-Have?

This Learning Adventure provides an interactive way to explore historical events and foster social-emotional learning. It encourages students to connect with Ruby Bridges’ story while developing critical thinking and writing skills. Perfect for elementary social studies or ELA lessons, this activity combines historical understanding with personal reflection.

This Adventure Includes:

Mini Lesson icon

Slideshow Mini-Lesson

Learn about Ruby Bridges and her historic journey to desegregate an all-white elementary school.

Virtual field trip icon

Virtual Field Trip

Step into Ruby’s shoes and experience the bravery it took to walk into her classroom amidst immense challenges.

writing prompt icon

Short Answer / Writing

Students on Ruby’s courage and write about how they can be changemakers in their own communities.

Additional Information

Materials
We recommend students get started using a tablet or laptop/desktop. Students over 13 also have the option of using a VR headset such as a Meta Quest.
Time
15 minutes
National Standards*

*Kai XR accommodates state standards with paid school subscriptions.
Example: Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL)

Elementary Level
3.11:
The student will explain the contributions of selected individuals to the United States, including those who fought for civil rights such as Ruby Bridges.

Common Core State Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.4: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development and organization are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS)
D2.Civ.2.3-5: Explain how all people, not just official leaders, play important roles in a community.

View Adventure Slideshow

Why Teachers Love This Adventure

ruby bridges lesson slide

Teachers appreciate this Kai XR Learning Adventure for its ability to blend historical events with meaningful social-emotional learning. Ruby’s story inspires students to think critically and reflect on their own ability to make a difference.

More reasons why teachers love this adventure:

Meets Educational Standards

Supports Common Core ELA, NCSS, and state standards for writing and social studies.

Interactive and Inspirational

Students engage with Ruby's journey through a virtual field trip and reflective writing.

Flexible Use

Ideal for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, social studies classes or lessons on SEL and changemakers.

Skill-Building

Develops writing, historical analysis, and critical thinking skills while encouraging empathy and self-reflection.

Try Our Ruby Bridges Adventure Today

Teachers enjoy their first five lessons free on Kai XR! Explore the Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure and other engaging Learning Adventures designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding in your classroom.

Add this Adventure to get started with your students.

ruby bridges kai xr lesson

Use This Adventure for Free
with Your Class

For quick access, log in with Clever or Classlink.

FAQs

1. What is the Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure?

The Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure is an interactive, virtual lesson that takes students back to 1960 to explore Ruby Bridges’ historic journey as the first African American student to desegregate an all-white elementary school. It combines multimedia content, a virtual field trip, and reflective writing to inspire students and teach about courage and social change.

2. How does this Adventure support social emotional learning (SEL)?

This Adventure encourages empathy and self-reflection by helping students connect with Ruby Bridges’ experience. It challenges students to think about the courage required to stand up for change and inspires them to reflect on how they can contribute to their communities.

3. How can teachers and students access the Adventure?

Simply log in with Clever or Classlink for easy access. Teachers, once logged in, click on Add to My Adventures to make this Adventure yours.

4. Is this Adventure free for teachers?

Yes, teachers enjoy their first five lessons for free on Kai XR, including this Adventure and other engaging resources.. Paid school subscriptions provide additional access to state standards-aligned content.

5. How long does it take to complete the Learning Adventure?

The Ruby Bridges Adventure is designed to be completed in approximately 15 minutes, making it a flexible option for classroom schedules or as part of a larger lesson.

6. What materials are needed for this Adventure?

Students can participate using tablets, laptops, or desktops. Students aged 13 and older can enhance their experience with VR headsets, such as a Meta Quest.

7. How does the Virtual Field Trip engage students with Ruby’s story?

The Virtual Field Trip allows students to experience what it was like for Ruby Bridges to walk into her school amidst immense challenges. This firsthand perspective fosters empathy and helps students understand the significance of her bravery.

8. Is this Adventure suitable for elementary and middle school students?

Yes, the Ruby Bridges Learning Adventure is tailored for elementary students but can also be adapted for middle schoolers. Its focus on historical understanding, critical thinking, and SEL makes it relevant for a range of age groups.

9. Why is this lesson great for Black History Month or Women’s History Month?

Ruby Bridges’ story highlights the struggle for racial equality and the role of young individuals in the Civil Rights Movement, making it ideal for Black History Month. Additionally, her story as a courageous young girl resonates during Women’s History Month, emphasizing resilience and the power of individuals to create change.

In memory of my sunshine, Ky(ra) G. Frazier. Love you to the moon and back.