'Small Island': reading Act 2, Scenes 5 to 6
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how Edmundson uses the description of characters and settings to explore key themes in Act 2, Scenes 5-6.
Key learning points
- Edmundson uses stage directions to present the emotional turmoil of the characters.
- Setting is used to reflect the characters’ situations and key themes.
- Edmundson uses imagery to present the idealistic view of England held by Gilbert and other characters.
- Edmundson reveals the reality of racism that Hortense and Gilbert endure.
Keywords
Bewildered - to feel confused or puzzled
Turmoil - a state of anxiety, confusion or disturbance
Precarious - not secure or stable
Quintessential - the most perfect or typical example of something
Imagery - using words to create a vivid picture for the reader
Common misconception
That Edmundson reveals that dreams are futile and hopeless.
Examine the purpose of the idealistic view of England, what does it allow Hortense and Gilbert to do? What reaction do these moments of humour and hope have on the audience?
Teacher tip
In Scene 5 the character Bernard uses a racial slur. You will need to consider how you manage the reading of this and may wish to skip the scene completely.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the play 'Small Island' written by Andrea Levy and adapted for the stage by Helen Edmundson
Content guidance
Contains strong language
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'Small Island', what do we find out about Queenie at the end of Act 1?
Q2.In 'Small Island', what is suggested might have happened to Bernard?
Q3.Complete this quote spoken by Queenie in 'Small Island': "And what am I? Am I a or what?"
Q4.Starting with the first, put these plot points from 'Small Island', Act 2 Scenes 1-4 in chronological order.
Q5.In 'Small Island' Act 2 Scene 4 what does Hortense attempt to make for Gilbert and why is it significant?
Q6.Match the character from 'Small Island' to the correct quote.
"Why you fall for their lies again?"
"Ah. Hengland. Di mudda-land".
"You make me come here to live like an animal!"
"And let me tell you this one thing - you are lucky!"
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'Small Island', what does Hortense wear in Act 2 Scene 6, and why is it significant?
Q2.In 'Small Island' Act 2 Scene 5, how does Bernard react when he meets Gilbert?
Q3.In 'Small Island', which two adjectives does Edmundson use to describe London?
Q4.In 'Small Island', Gilbert describes his idealistic view of England and lists symbolic images of London. Which one of these is not in his list?
Q5.Match the character from 'Small Island' to the stage directions that describe them.
"He is pale, full of emotion."
"She lets out a small cry of shock."
"is waiting. He looks worried."
"She [...] hesitates for a moment, confused, panicky'
Q6.In 'Small Island', Edmundson includes the minor characters MAN and WOMAN in the stage directions. What do they represent?
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: 'Small Island': reading Act 2, Scenes 5 to 6, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 9 English lesson on: 'Small Island': reading Act 2, Scenes 5 to 6, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the 'Small Island' unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.