Cover of the textbook Performer B1, Vol. 1

The key answer of exercise 6

The key to exercise solutions in chapter 10 - Culture and Competences for the textbook Performer B1, Vol. 1 with authors Marina Spiazzi, Marina Tavella e Margaret Layton from Zanichelli

Question

Before you listen, discuss in pairs this quote by Malala Yousafzai, the main supporter of girls' education.

Answer

This quote by Malala Yousafzai succinctly captures the transformative power of education and emphasizes its potential to bring about positive change on a global scale. Malala, a Pakistani advocate for girls' education and the youngest-ever Nobel Prize laureate, speaks from her personal experience and the challenges she faced in advocating for education, especially for girls, in a society where it was often denied.

Let's break down the key elements of the quote:

  1. "One child": This highlights the individual impact that education can have. By educating one child, you are not only changing their life but potentially influencing the lives of those around them.
  2. "One teacher": The role of a teacher is crucial in shaping the educational experience. A dedicated and skilled teacher can inspire, guide, and impart knowledge, playing a pivotal role in a student's intellectual and personal development.
  3. "One book": Books represent knowledge, wisdom, and the accumulation of human experience. A single book can open up new worlds, broaden perspectives, and empower individuals with the tools to think critically and creatively.
  4. "One pen": The pen symbolizes the power of education in giving individuals a voice. It represents the ability to communicate, express ideas, and advocate for change. Malala's own journey involves using her voice to champion the cause of education for all, especially girls.
  5. "Can change the world": This is the essence of the quote. It conveys the idea that education is not just about personal development but has the potential to bring about broader societal and global transformation. An educated individual can contribute to positive change, social progress, and the betterment of communities.

In essence, Malala is emphasizing the ripple effect of education. The investment in the education of one child, facilitated by the collaboration of one teacher, the knowledge contained in one book, and the ability to express oneself with one pen, can collectively lead to transformative changes that extend far beyond the individual. It is a call for recognizing the universal right to education and understanding its far-reaching implications for building a better, more equitable world.