showing a lack of effective judgement, often based on a lack of experience or optimism

a system of government whereby leaders are voted in by election

Considering the presentation of Ralph in Golding's 'Lord of the Flies'

English

In 'Lord of the Flies', students explore central questions about what gives us authority within society and whether power inevitably corrupts those who hold it. In 'Animal Farm: The Pigs and Power', students also explore the corrupting influence of power and question whether those who hold power are bound to abuse it. 

In 'A Monster Within', students look at villains in gothic fiction and, through their study of context, explore whether they are in fact made monstrous due to social fears and prejudices. In 'Lord of the Flies', students explore the powerful influence of social hierarchy and, using very different context, unpick what Golding's central message about human civilization might be. 

In this unit, pupils read and explore 'The Lord of the Flies' by considering Golding's message about human nature. They first read the novel, before analysing the characters Ralph, Simon, Jack and Piggy. They then look at setting and symbolism before planning and writing an essay on human nature.

'Lord of the Flies'

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Which words does Golding use to characterise Ralph in the beginning of 'Lord of the Flies'?

The {{ }} is the main character in a text.

What is Ralph's main priority as leader in 'Lord of the Flies'?

What might Ralph represent in 'Lord of the Flies'?

he is rude to Piggy about his asthma and glasses

he destroys the only available food source

he gives Jack permission to use the choir as he pleases

 he frightens the littluns with stories of the Beast

What decision does Ralph make in the first chapter of 'Lord of the Flies' that could be described as naive?

his morality dissipates  - he becomes just as greedy and wicked as the others

his naivety fades, as he recognises the savagery within man

he does not change at all - he treads a moral path throughout

he becomes more ignorant, as he turns a blind eye to the cruelty around him

In what way does Ralph change in 'Lord of the Flies'?

How did Ralph gain power in 'Lord of the Flies'?

What colour hair does Ralph have in 'Lord of the Flies'?

Which boys side with Ralph throughout 'Lord of the Flies'?

He was a university professor before the war.

He did not serve in the Second World War.

He was involved in a plane crash as a child.

Which of the following statements about William Golding is true? 

He initially cries, but then shouts in excitement.

He can't believe it and goes off in search of adults.

In the beginning of 'Lord of the Flies', how does Ralph react to the realisation that there are no grown-ups on the island?

makes decisions without considering others

makes decisions that will benefit them personally

What are the common traits of a democratic leader?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of serious crime

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Considering the presentation of Ralph in Golding's 'Lord of the Flies'

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.