Winsome Pinnock on the characters in 'Leave Taking'
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use Winsome Pinnock’s insights to explore and develop my understanding of the characters in 'Leave Taking'.
Key learning points
- Pinnock describes Enid as strict but protective, trying to prepare her daughters for a harsh world.
- Del and Viv are complex characters inspired by Pinnock’s love of strong female roles.
- Pinnock explains that characters sometimes act against expectations to support each other.
- Pinnock says Brod and Mai show how the community supports and guides the younger generation.
- Del reading Enid’s palm and embracing Obeah shows her empathy and continuation of tradition.
Keywords
Hostile - unfriendly, threatening, or unwelcoming
Resistance - fighting back against something unfair or trying to stop something you disagree with
Assert - to speak or act confidently so people know what you think or who you are
Discrimination - unfair or negative treatment of someone because of their race, gender, religion, or another part of their identity
Circumspect - wary and unwilling to take risks
Common misconception
Enid and other immigrants came to Britain fully aware of the challenges and were prepared for discrimination.
Pinnock explains that many, like Enid, saw themselves as British subjects and expected a “homecoming”, so the hostility and racism they faced were a shock.
Teacher tip
You may wish to consider the timing of this lesson. Each learning cycle can be taught as a standalone lesson if needed. This will ensure there is enough time to watch and fully engage with each of the videos.
Equipment
You need access to a copy of Winsome Pinnock's 'Leave Taking'.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In which city is 'Leave Taking' set?
Q2.Match the characters from 'Leave Taking' to the correct descriptions.
The strict but caring mother, determined to protect her daughters.
The rebellious, strong-willed daughter.
The studious and curious daughter who plans to go to university.
A healer and spiritual guide who practices Obeah.
The loyal family friend who offers guidance.
Q3.Is the statement true or false? The play 'Leave Taking' takes place over several decades.
Q4.Put the plot points, focused on Enid from 'Leave Taking' in the correct order.
Q5.Who speaks the first line in 'Leave Taking'?
Q6.In 'Leave Taking', which character has an estranged son?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.According to Pinnock, in 'Leave Taking', why does Enid push her daughters to work hard?
Q2.What kind of character does Pinnock describe Del as in 'Leave Taking'?
Q3.Which of the following best describes Viv from 'Leave Taking', according to Winsome Pinnock?
Q4.Is the statement true or false? Pinnock explains that the older generation were completely passive and did not resist racism.
Q5.Which moment does Pinnock describe as the most powerful change in 'Leave Taking'?
Q6.Which interpretation best connects Pinnock’s comments to the theme of intergenerational conflict in 'Leave Taking'?
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Winsome Pinnock on the characters in 'Leave Taking', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Winsome Pinnock on the characters in 'Leave Taking', 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 4 English lessons from the Leave Taking: a sense of belonging unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.