International Women’s Day: Inspiring Women & English Reading Practice
- Mar 4
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 29
Celebrate International Women’s Day with an inspiring English reading passage, vocabulary practice, and discussion questions for ESL learners.
This lesson focuses on powerful abstract nouns like courage, strength, and leadership — perfect for building confidence in English while learning about an extraordinary woman.
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What Is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8. It is a global day to recognise the achievements of women and to promote equality and opportunity for all.
On this day, people around the world share stories of inspiring women in history, science, politics, education, art, and business.
Today, let’s practise English by reading about one remarkable woman.
📚Reading Passage: The Courage of Malala
Malala Yousafzai was born in Pakistan in 1997. From a young age, she believed in the importance of education for girls.
When she was only 15 years old, she spoke publicly about girls’ rights to go to school. Her bravery made her famous — but it also put her in danger. In 2012, she was attacked because of her beliefs.
However, Malala did not give up. After recovering, she continued to speak about education and equality. Her strength and determination inspired millions of people around the world.
In 2014, she became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize.
Today, Malala continues to show leadership, courage, and hope. Her story reminds us that one voice can change the world.
✨ Keep Learning Through Inspiring Stories
If you enjoyed this lesson for International Women’s Day, explore more meaningful English practice:
→ Inspiring Women Reading Series
→ Short Stories for Adult ESL Learners
→ Vocabulary Lessons Through Real Life Topics
Reading regularly builds confidence, vocabulary, and fluency — naturally.
Vocabulary Focus: Abstract Nouns
Abstract nouns describe ideas, feelings, or qualities. We cannot see or touch them, but we can feel or understand them.
Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
Courage | The ability to face danger or fear | She showed courage when she spoke publicly. |
Strength | Mental or physical power | Her strength helped her recover. |
Leadership | The ability to guide others | She demonstrated strong leadership. |
Determination | Not giving up | Her determination inspired others. |
Equality | Being treated the same | She fights for equality in education. |
Hope | A feeling of positive expectation | Her story gives people hope. |
🌷 Free Printable Worksheet
Want structured practice?
Download the International Women’s Day ESL worksheet with:
✔ Reading comprehension
✔ Abstract nouns practice
✔ Speaking prompts
✔ Writing activity
✔ Answer key
Perfect for adult learners and teachers.
Comprehension Questions
Where was Malala born?
Why did she become famous?
What happened to her in 2012?
What award did she receive in 2014?
Which abstract nouns describe her personality?
Discussion Questions (Speaking Practice)
Perfect for classroom use, online lessons, or self-study reflection.
Why is education important for women and girls?
What qualities make a person inspiring?
Do you know any inspiring women in your country?
How can young people show leadership?
What does equality mean to you?
🎯Grammar Focus: Using Abstract Nouns in Sentences
Abstract nouns are often used:
After verbs: She showed courage.
With adjectives: strong leadership
In general statements: Equality is important.
✍🏻 Practice Activity
Complete the sentences using the words:(courage, strength, hope, equality, determination)
She never lost her __________.
__________ is important in every society.
It takes __________ to speak in public.
Her __________ helped her continue.
We need __________ for a better future.
(Answer Key: 1. hope 2. Equality 3. courage 4. determination 5. strength)
✏️Writing Task
Write 5–8 sentences about an inspiring woman.
You can include:
Who she is
What she did
Why she inspires you
At least three abstract nouns
💬 Who Inspires You?
✏️Write a comment below using at least one abstract noun.
Example: “My mother inspires me because of her strength and determination.”
Practise English. Share your voice. Inspire others.
Why Learn English Through Inspiring Stories?
Reading about strong women helps you:
Improve vocabulary
Practise grammar naturally
Build reading confidence
Learn meaningful real-world language
Stories make English emotional, powerful, and memorable.
🎥 Prefer Video Lessons?
Watch the full English reading lesson about Malala Yousafzai on YouTube.
You’ll hear pronunciation, vocabulary explanation, and speaking practice tips.
👉 Watch the Lesson Here
New lifestyle-based ESL lessons every week.
FAQ
What level is this lesson suitable for?
Pre-Intermediate to Intermediate ESL learners.
What grammar point does this lesson teach?
Abstract nouns and sentence structure using nouns that describe qualities.
Can this be used for International Women’s Day classroom activities?
Yes! It’s perfect for themed lessons, discussion classes, and reading comprehension practice.
🔔 Practice More:
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🎥 Check out our YouTube Channel Playlist:
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