MALCOLM X: Learning To Read
The questions are roughly in the order you'll find evidence in the text. ALWAYS use examples from the text to prove your points.
1. What is the context for Malcolm's learning to read? In other words, where is he, and why does he want to get better at reading, writing, and speaking? Why does reading become important to him?
2. Define the word "emulate" (as it appears on page 258). Who does Malcolm want to emulate, and why?
3. What was Malcolm's method for learning new words? Was this a good method?
4. In what ways did increasing his vocabulary have an effect on Malcolm's life? In other words, once he knew more words, what were the benefits? List some benefits and explain why they were important to Malcolm.
5. What types of books did Malcolm especially want to borrow from the library? In other words, what was the subject of the books he wanted to read? What are some things he learned from these books? Why was he interested in this subject?
6. What were three specific things Malcolm learned about slavery from his readings?
7. What were three things Malcolm learned about China from his readings? Why was he interested in China? How did this interest in China relate to his beliefs about America?
8. According to Malcolm, why was being in prison a positive experience for him? How did Malcolm's life change as a result of being in prison?