These prompts can be used for in-class discussion, exploratory free-writing, or reflection homework before or after reading the memoir.

Pre-Reading “Icebreaker”

Malala advocates that education for all is a human right, yet equal access to education, especially for girls, is lacking in many countries. Why is access to education important? What do you think are some of the benefits of education in the United States? How might those benefits differ in other countries like Pakistan or Afghanistan? Why do you think fewer girls have access to education worldwide than boys?

Teaching Suggestion: Two of the important themes of Malala’s memoir are the Power of Education and the Fight Against Gender Inequality. Guide students to understand that, worldwide, children do not have equal access to education. Help them recognize why educational equality is important, so they can better understand Malala’s passionate advocacy.

• For an overview on the importance of girls’ education specifically, visit the UNICEF page on Girls’ Education.
• UNESCO’s article on What You Need to Know about the Right to Education offers statistics and explains in detail why education is a fundamental right.

Personal Response Prompt

Many factors help form Malala’s sense of self: Family, faith, role models, and her culture all influence who she is as a person.