Student Article

Marie Curie: A Scientific Legacy Who Changed the World

By: Jheni Osman

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Originally Published in HistoryExtra

She shattered gender barriers, discovered new elements, and became the first person to win two Nobel Prizes — but at a cost.

The article “Marie Curie: A Scientific Legacy Who Changed the World” from BBC's HistoryExtra explores the life and groundbreaking scientific achievements of Marie Curie. From her difficult childhood in Russian-occupied Poland to her pioneering work in radioactivity, Curie defied gender norms and political obstacles to become one of the most celebrated scientists in history.

Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

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Keywords

radioactivity Nobel Prize polonium radium scientific discovery Marie Curie

Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

Student Article Info

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Grades:

Subject:

Topic:

Keywords

radioactivity Nobel Prize polonium radium scientific discovery Marie Curie

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

Level 2 Reading Passage

Grades: 6-8, Lexile Level: 900-1100L

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Level 3 Reading Passage

Grades: 9-12, Lexile Level: 1100-1300L

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