Let’s read the passage carefully to find the answers.
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Question 1: What was the Clinton 12?
Look at the first paragraph:
> “Jo Ann Allen Boyce was a member of the Clinton 12, twelve black students who integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee in 1956.”
So, the Clinton 12 were
twelve Black students who went to Clinton High School in Tennessee in 1956 to help end segregation — meaning they were the first Black students to attend that school when it used to be only for white students.
✔ Answer: The Clinton 12 were twelve Black students who integrated (started attending) Clinton High School in Tennessee in 1956.
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Question 2: What kind of experience did the Clinton 12 have?
Read the second paragraph:
> “At first things went well for the 12 students. Then outside agitators stirred up hatred and anger amongst the townspeople. Soon the Clinton 12 faced both verbal and physical displays of racism from classmates and the community alike, including threats against their lives.”
This tells us that after a good start, they faced hate, racism, insults, violence, and even death threats — from other kids and adults in town.
✔ Answer: At first, things were okay, but then they faced racism, hatred, verbal abuse, physical attacks, and threats to their lives from classmates and people in the community.
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Final Answer:
1. The Clinton 12 were twelve Black students who integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee in 1956.
2. They initially had a smooth experience, but later faced racism, verbal and physical abuse, and life threats from classmates and the community.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of reading comprehension worksheet for 8th grade.
