This lesson uses, A Strong Right Arm, a book about Mamie Johnson and her experiences as an African-American girl who played baseball in the days when the major leagues were segregated. This book is an historical account told firsthand by Mamie Johnson to the author. This lesson can be used with upper elementary students to examine conflicting interests and to explore the ways human beings view themselves in and over time.

Download article as PDF

Melinda Odom Staubs is an Assistant Professor at Jacksonville State University in Jacksonville, Alabama. She has taught elementary and middle school in Oklahoma, Virginia, and Alabama. Her research interests include economics education, pre-service teacher training, thinking dispositions, and middle school learners. Contact information: mstaubs@aol.com