Teaching Persuasive Language Through Critical Discourse Analysis Of Malala Yousafzai’s Speech

Abstract

On July 12, 2013, a student and education activist from Pakistan, Malala Yousafzai, delivered her memorable speech in the United Nations Headquarters in New York, highlighting the necessity of universal education among children and women all over the world. This speech was the first speech delivered by Malala since the shooting incident on the left side of her forehead done by Taliban on October 9, 2012, compelling her to have such a long recovery. This paper seeks to 1) analyze Malala’s speech by using critical discourse analysis, and 2) discuss the possibility of using this material in ELT. The results of the study show that Malala used language to 1) show her strength, power, and courage in the face of adversity, and 2) persuade her fellows to continue studying, and some related parties to guarantee the girls and children’s right to get education. Besides, this speech can be used as teaching material to teach all English skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) by focusing on persuasive language.