Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Learn English and About American Culture)
It was a cold January morning, and Sofia’s school was closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Most of her friends were happy to have a day off, but Sofia’s mom reminded her, “This day isn’t just for rest — it’s for remembering and helping others.”
Sofia wasn’t sure what that meant, but she went with her family to a local community center. There, volunteers were collecting food and clothes for families in need. Her mom handed her a box and said, “Dr. King believed in service. Today we serve too.”
As Sofia worked, she noticed posters on the wall. One had Dr. King’s famous words: “I have a dream.” Another said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.” She had learned about Dr. King in school — how he fought peacefully for civil rights, how he gave speeches that inspired millions, and how he dreamed of a world where people were judged by their character, not their skin color.
After a few hours, Sofia felt tired but proud. She saw people smiling as they received food and warm clothes. A man thanked her and said, “You’re making a difference.”
On the way home, Sofia looked out the car window. Snowflakes fell softly, covering the town in white. She thought about Dr. King’s dream — people of all colors and backgrounds working together, helping one another. She realized that even small actions, like giving or serving, could keep that dream alive.
When they got home, she wrote in her journal:
“Dr. King’s dream still lives. Today I helped someone, and maybe tomorrow, I’ll do even more.”
📘 1. Comprehension Questions (Story Understanding)
Why was Sofia’s school closed?
Where did Sofia and her family go on Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
What were the volunteers doing at the community center?
What did the posters say?
Who was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.?
What did Sofia write in her journal?
🌍 2. Culture Questions (About American Traditions and Values)
Why do Americans celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day?
When is this holiday celebrated each year?
What does “civil rights” mean?
Why is Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech so famous?
How does this holiday connect to ideas like freedom and equality?
How has Dr. King’s work changed life in the U.S. today?
💭 3. Reflection Questions (Personal Connection and Meaning)
What kind of dream or goal do you have for your community or country?
Have you ever done volunteer work or helped others? How did it feel?
Why do you think it’s important to remember people like Dr. King?
How can young people make the world a better place?
Do you think one person can change a country? Why or why not?
What does equality mean to you personally?