a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like

pointless or ineffective, and will not lead to any useful result or meaningful change

make sure something is obeyed or carried out, often by applying rules, laws, or authority

the stereotypical role or behaviour considered to be appropriate to a particular gender

a way of thinking, behaving, or doing something that has been used by people for a long time; old-fashioned

Contextualising gender expectations in ‘An Inspector Calls'

English

In 'Animal Farm: Barriers to Leadership', pupils evaluate the different types of leadership styles presented in the novella. In 'Animal Farm: Lies and Deception', pupils explore how key images, such as food and the windmill, are used a symbols of the lies and deceit of the pigs.

In 'Animal Farm: The Pigs and Power', pupils develop a clear understanding of the plot, main characters and themes of the novella. In the second exploration unit, 'Animal Farm: Barriers to Leadership', pupils undertake more nuanced analysis of the pigs grasp for power.

In this unit, pupils learn about how Priestly questions societal expectations of gender and class in 'An Inspector Calls'. They look at three female characters, Sheila, Mrs Birling and Eva, and also explore how masculinity is presented. They finally plan and write an essay on the topic.

Modern text: first deep dive

Historic or outdated representations of people that may portray inequality or injustice.

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

the stereotypical behaviour expected of men and women

the job responsibilities assigned to men and women

What does the term "gender roles" refer to?

Which word beginning with 'f' can be described as: pointless or ineffective, and will not lead to any useful result or meaningful change

Complete the sentence: In 'An Inspector Calls' at the beginning of Act 1, Mrs Birling describes the work that men do as {{}}.

She is protected from societal expectations due to her wealth.

She is given more opportunities and independence.

 She is judged harshly and faces exploitation.

Which of the following best describes how Eva Smith's working-class position affects her in 'An Inspector Calls'?

are a reflection of their "social status"

In 'An Inspector Calls' at the beginning of Act 1, Mr Birling suggests that clothes are important to women as they ... 

change is impossible, and society will never learn

Priestley suggests that gender roles are no longer relevant

change is possible, but not everyone is ready to challenge outdated beliefs

women will always challenge societal expectations

Which is the best interpretation for the statement that Priestley’s ending of 'An Inspector Calls' could be seen as both hopeful and futile?

In which year is 'An Inspector Calls' set?

In which year did J.B. Priestley write 'An Inspector Calls' ?

The Birlings celebrate Sheila and Gerald’s engagement.

Birling dismisses war and social responsibility in his speech.

Inspector Goole arrives and announces a woman's suicide.

Birling admits firing the woman for demanding higher wages.

Sheila reveals she got the woman dismissed out of jealousy.

Gerald confesses to a past affair with the woman.

Starting with the first, put these plot points from 'An Inspector Calls' into chronological order.

Fires Eva Smith for her role in a workers' dispute over pay.

Stole money to to help Eva Smith after discovering her pregnancy.

Has Eva Smith fired over jealousy of a dress.

Had an affair with Eva Smith and supported her financially for a time.

Match the characters from 'An Inspector Calls' to the correct description of their role in Eva Smith's death.

Perhaps he hoped his audience might recognise the need for change.

This may reflect Priestley’s hope for a more just society.

Priestley served as a soldier in World War I.

Arguably, Priestley’s industrial upbringing exposed him to class inequalities.

Which of the following sentences does **not** use tentative language?

Which of these could be considered key themes in ‘An Inspector Calls’?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz