This story first appeared on PBS News Hour on Nov. 26, 2023.
NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?
SUMMARY
Five years ago, Linda Pistun set out to achieve two goals: end world hunger and improve science education in public schools. In August, at the age of 11, she became a published author. John Yang speaks with Pistun about how she’s trying to change the world through astrophysics, mealworms and teaching young girls science.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
WARM-UP QUESTIONS
- Who is Linda Pistun?
- What did Pistun teach herself to do at age 4?
- Where did Pistun take classes this summer?
- When (at what age) did Pistun start her business?
- Why is Linda's name special to her family?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
- Which of Linda's accomplishments is most outstanding to you, and why?
- If you could ask Linda any question, what would it be?
Media literacy: Why do you think a news program has highlighted the accomplishments of an 11-year-old girl?
WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO
You can find Linda Pistun's website here.
First, discuss with a partner what you found most interesting about the site. Then, consider what questions you might have for Linda about her work.
As a class, discuss the questions you've come up with for Linda and consider choosing one to ask her through the contact info on her site!
This lesson was written by Payton Alfieri, a junior at Episcopal High School in Alexandria, Virginia, with editing by Luke Gerwe.
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