42 (Jackie Robinson) Movie Guide

A complete lesson plan with discussion questions, writing activities, and leadership worksheets

This resource helps teachers use the shining example of Jackie Robinson to study racism at both the societal and individual levels in their classrooms.

Included in this leadership movie guide:

Time Stamps
Answer Key
Fillable PDF Version
Google Form Version

WARNING

This is a DEEP LEARNING lesson plan to help students employ a LEADERSHIP approach to SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Movie Guide Activities

Each of our leadership movie guides includes the following activities:

Reflection: allows students to journal about one of the movie's themes prior to watching.
Analysis: questions and prompts to analyze the movie's characters, plot, and climax.
Practice & Discussion: a partner/group activity that takes the principles of the movie and asks students to take action and grow in their own lives.
Extension: a RAFT (Role-Audience-Format-Topic) writing prompt to help students apply their new knowledge.
Lead for Impact: challenges students to pinpoint how the hero of the story exhibited The 12 Fundamentals of Impact and then synthesize how they can apply the lessons to writing their own story.

The activities in 42 (Jackie Robinson) Movie Guide will challenge students to move closer to mastery in the following life skills:

leadership
cooperation with others
creativity
critical thinking
emotional intelligence
problem-solving
judgement and decision-making

1. 42 (Jackie Robinson) Movie Guide PDF
2. 42 (Jackie Robinson) Answer Key for Movie Guide
3. 42 (Jackie Robinson) Fillable PDF Movie Guide
4. 42 (Jackie Robinson) Google Form Movie Guide
5. 42 (Jackie Robinson) Video Preview
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Social Emotional Learning Competencies

These leadership activities are designed to help students meet the following Social & Emotional Learning Competencies as outlined by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL):

Develop SELF-AWARENESS and SELF-MANAGEMENT skills to achieve school and life success.
Use SOCIAL-AWARENESS and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain POSITIVE RELATIONSHIPS.
Demonstrate DECISION-MAKING skills and responsible behaviors in personal, school, and community contexts.

Movie Synopsis

42 is a biographical sports drama chronicling Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking journey as the first African-American Major League Baseball player.

Set in 1945, Brooklyn Dodgers general manager Branch Rickey decides to break baseball’s color barrier, recruiting Robinson, a fiery, talented infielder from the Negro Leagues. In 1947, Robinson joins the Dodgers, wearing number 42, and faces intense racism—from hostile fans, opposing players, and even teammates like shortstop Pee Wee Reese.

Supported by his wife, Rachel, and Rickey’s steadfast belief in his ability, Robinson endures slurs, threats, and on-field aggression, notably from Phillies manager Ben Chapman.

His resilience and skill win over some skeptics, culminating in a pivotal moment of solidarity when Reese publicly stands by him. Robinson’s courage helps the Dodgers reach the World Series, cementing his legacy as a civil rights pioneer.

The film is a stirring tribute to bravery, dignity, and the fight for equality in sports and society.

Movie Rating

PG-13
Movie Run Time

2 hours, 8 minutes
Grade Levels

8th-12th
Ideal Classes

US History (Civil Rights Movement), Black History Month Activities, Career Development, English Language Arts, Leadership, Character Education, Life Skills, Youth Groups, Sports Teams

42 (Jackie Robinson) Movie Guide provides activities to help students become better leaders by focusing on the following themes:

Racial Discrimination and Prejudice:

The film addresses the pervasive racial discrimination and prejudice that Jackie Robinson faced as he broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball. It depicts the challenges and hostility he encountered from fans, fellow players, and even some teammates due to his race.
Courage and Resilience:

Jackie Robinson's journey is characterized by tremendous courage and resilience. Despite the intense pressure and discrimination, he remains steadfast in his commitment to succeed on the baseball field while also becoming a symbol of hope and progress for the African American community.
Breaking Barriers:

The movie emphasizes the historical significance of Jackie Robinson's achievement in breaking the racial barrier in professional sports. It highlights the broader impact of his success in challenging and changing deeply ingrained prejudices, paving the way for future generations of African American athletes.
Civil Rights and Social Change:

42 is situated within the context of the civil rights movement. Robinson's story becomes a microcosm of the larger struggle for racial equality in the United States during the mid-20th century. His success contributes to the momentum for social change and challenges the status quo.
Team Unity and Acceptance:

The film explores the dynamics of team unity and the evolution of acceptance within the Brooklyn Dodgers as Robinson becomes an integral part of the team. It underscores the importance of overcoming prejudice for the greater good and achieving success through collaboration.
Leadership and Legacy:

Jackie Robinson's leadership and the legacy he leaves behind are central themes. His actions and achievements not only impact the world of baseball but also contribute to a broader shift in societal attitudes. The film reflects on the enduring legacy of those who courageously lead the way for positive change.