'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of the Inspector
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can understand the role, presentation and significance of the Inspector.
Key learning points
- Priestley establishes the Inspector as an ominous and imposing presence in Act 1.
- Priestley reveals that the Inspector is not intimidated by class or societal power.
- The Inspector’s interrogation style could be considered unorthodox.
- The Inspector uses emotive and shocking language to provoke strong emotional reactions from the characters and audience.
- There are multiple interpretations to explain the role of the Inspector.
Keywords
Ominous - suggesting that something bad or threatening is going to happen
Imposing - having a large, impressive, or intimidating appearance
Manipulative - the controlling or influencing of others
Unorthodox - different from what is usual or traditional
Emotive - causing strong emotions or feelings
Common misconception
There is always one clear and deifnite interpretation of a charcater.
Characters can have multiple interpretations based on context, perspective, and evidence in the text. Writers like Priestley create complex characters to provoke debate and reflection.
Teacher tip
You may wish to complete Task C as a written task depending on the needs of your class or pupils. Likewise, Task A and B can be completed as discussion tasks.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of ‘An Inspector Calls’ by J.B. Priestley, Heinemann 2014 edition.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of mental health issues
Depiction or discussion of mental health issues
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'An Inspector Calls' the inspector's full name is Inspector .
Q2.In Act 2 of 'An Inspector Calls', what does Gerald admit?
Q3.What does the term 'characterisation' refer to in a play?
Q4.What does the word 'interpretation' mean when exploring a text?
Q5.Match the character from 'An Inspector Calls' to the correct words used in the stage directions to describe them.
"portentous" "provincial"
"superior" "cold"
"pretty" "excited" "pleased"
"shy" "assertive"
"massiveness" "purposefulness"
"well-bred" "man-about-town"
Q6.In Act 3 of 'An Inspector Calls', the Inspector delivers a speech where he states that men will be taught a lesson. Which words does he use to describe how or where this will happen?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'An Inspector Calls', the doorbell rings to signal the entrance of the Inspector. Which word does Priestley use to describe its sound?
Q2.Is the answer true or false? In 'An Inspector Calls', Act 1, the Inspector is described as having "solidity".
Q3.In 'An Inspector Calls', which words does Priestley use to describe the way the Inspector should talk?
Q4.In Act 1 of 'An Inspector Calls', Mr. Birling mentions his positions of power and connections, which does he mention?
Q5.Which word beginning with 'o' can be described as: 'suggesting that something bad or threatening is going to happen.'?
Q6.In Act 3 of 'An Inspector Calls', the Inspector delivers a powerful speech where he says there are millions of...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of the Inspector, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of the Inspector, 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 An Inspector Calls: power and responsibility unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.