A Chance to Speak - Study Notes

The Taliban's violent campaign sought to destroy girls' schools in Swat Valley, Pakistan.

Malala's father actively opposed the Taliban's violence, speaking out publicly and advocating for government intervention.

Malala and her friends organized a peace rally at their school to express their views on education and denounce the Taliban's actions.

Malala's family prepared for the possibility of Taliban violence, demonstrating their fear and resilience.

Malala's experience in front of the camera for interviews helped her feel more comfortable during the peace rally.

The Khushal School, unlike many others, allowed every girl to have a voice and share their stories.

Moniba, a skilled speaker, used poetic language to express her feelings about the Taliban's portrayal of Pashtuns as terrorists.

Malala's nervousness, or lack of confidence in public speaking, is a normal human experience that shows her vulnerability.

A formal order or decree issued by a person in authority, especially a ruler.

A group of people who follow a strict religious code, often characterized by their conservative beliefs and strict rules.

A situation when people or groups are unable to reach an agreement, resulting in continued disagreement.

A feeling of sadness and discouragement, often caused by a lack of hope or by disappointment.

A feeling of complete defeat or hopelessness, where one believes they are powerless to change a situation.

The period of time in the year when schools are closed for a short break, typically during winter or summer.

A person who practices medicine and treats patients.

The act of preventing someone from doing something they want to do, often by using force or control.

A powerful and influential religious leader whose sermons spread fear and control through the use of radio broadcasts.

The Taliban's strict edict on education, prohibiting young girls from attending school after January 15th, 2009.

The act of speaking out publicly and boldly against injustice, advocating for change, and challenging oppressive forces.

An internal dialogue or a private conversation with oneself, often involving self-reflection and contemplation.

A powerful image of fear and control, representing the immense authority the Taliban held in Swat Valley.

A young girl's courage in the face of fear, choosing to use her voice as a tool for change and to speak on behalf of those silenced.

An act of defiance and courage, where individuals choose to act in defiance of oppressive rules and restrictions.

The symbolic act of using your voice to speak on behalf of others, ensuring their stories are heard and their rights are recognized.

The fear that Malala's identity as Gul Makai would be revealed.

Malala's friend who guessed her identity as Gul Makai.

The feeling of being numb to danger, as if the horrific events have become ordinary.

The constant background noise of violence and unrest in Mingora.

The act of choosing to confront fear with defiance, like wearing a bright pink shalwar kamiz despite the threats.

The idea that ordinary events become unremarkable when they are experienced repeatedly.

A specific threat made to Malala while walking home from school, showing the reality of the danger.

Malala's inner voice reminding her to be rational and avoid unnecessary fear.

Fazlullah's men punished a woman for alleged indecency and a man for not wearing his pants short according to Taliban's rules.

Malala's father was asked to find someone to write a diary about life under the Taliban for the BBC Urdu website.

Ayesha's father was worried about her safety and refused to let her contribute to the diary project.

Malala's father was ready to inform the BBC that no one was willing to write the diary, but Malala volunteered.

Malala's mother, despite her fears, supported her daughter's decision to write the diary.

Malala's family saw hope and possibility even in a dangerous situation, which is a contrast to the fear many others felt.

Malala's desire to write the diary was driven by her strong wish to continue going to school.

Malala's mother's answer, “Falsehood has to die, and truth has to come forward,” emphasizes the importance of speaking up against injustice and promoting truth.