Read Malcolm X's article "Learning to Read". Here, Malcolm X discusses his learning of literacy and the literacy sponsors that influenced him. As you continue thinking about literacy narrative, consider the following questions for discussion:
1. Who seems to be Malcolm X's intended audience? How do you know?
2. How does Malcolm X define literacy? How does this definition compare to school-based literacy?
3. Drawing on Deborah Brandt's definition of literacy sponsor, list as many of Malcolm X's literacy sponsors as you can find. (Remember that sponsors don't have to be people, but can also be ideas or institutions).
4. What was the particular role for writing that Malcolm X describes in his account of his literacy education? How do you think it helped him read? Can you think of ways that writing helped you become a better reader?
Once you have given this some thought, please respond to each of these questions in a well thought-out paragraph.