International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate women and girls and the positive impact they have had on the world.
All around the globe, women from different countries and cultures have helped shape education, science, creativity and leadership. Learning languages helps us discover these stories and understand people from all over the world.
Here are some inspiring women from different language communities whose stories continue to inspire learners today.
Arabic-speaking world: Fatima al-Fihri
Fatima al-Fihri lived many years ago in Morocco and believed strongly in the power of education. She founded a place of learning that is now recognised as the world’s oldest university. Her story reminds us that education can bring people together and help communities grow.
Urdu-speaking world: Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is an advocate for education and believes that all children should have the chance to go to school. Growing up speaking Urdu, she has shared her message with people all over the world and continues to inspire young learners to value education.
Chinese-speaking world: Tu Youyou
Tu Youyou is a scientist from China whose work helped create a medicine that saves lives around the world. Her story shows how learning, curiosity and determination can help make the world a better place.
Italian-speaking world: Maria Montessori
Maria Montessori was an educator from Italy who believed children learn best when they are encouraged to explore and be curious. Her ideas are still used in classrooms today and help children grow in confidence and independence.
French-speaking world: Marie Curie
Marie Curie was a scientist who made important discoveries that changed how we understand the world. She loved learning and showed that asking questions and working hard can lead to amazing achievements.
German-speaking world: Hedy Lamarr
Hedy Lamarr was an inventor who helped develop ideas that are still used in modern technology today. Her story shows that creativity and problem-solving can lead to exciting discoveries.
Spanish-speaking world: Sonia Sotomayor
Sonia Sotomayor grew up speaking both Spanish and English and went on to become a judge. Her journey shows how learning, determination and communication can help people achieve their goals.
Why learning languages matters
Learning languages helps children:
- Discover people and cultures from around the world
- Communicate with others
- Build confidence
- Broaden their horizons
Languages help us understand that the world is full of different voices and inspiring stories.
Celebrating International Women’s Day
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate women who have helped shape our world through learning, curiosity and determination.
By learning languages, you can explore new cultures, discover inspiring role models and begin to imagine where their learning might take them in the future.
Click below to download the worksheets:
How you might adapt this resource
KS1: Read questions aloud and pupils answer with single words or draw a picture instead of writing.
Lower KS2: Answer in short sentences.
Upper KS2: Encourage full sentences and explanations.