A Raisin in the Sun - Family and Historical Context
English
Year 9
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
This worksheet explores the theme of family within the play 'A Raisin in the Sun', focusing on its historical setting. Students will analyse a summary and context guide, then respond to questions that develop understanding of the characters' familial relationships and the social backdrop of the 1950s America.
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A Raisin in the Sun - Family and Historical Context
Subject: EnglishGrade: Year 9
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Year 9
A
Introduction and Context
Scene Summary: 'A Raisin in the Sun' is set in 1950s Chicago, a period marked by racial segregation, economic disparity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The play centres on the Younger family, whose members grapple with their aspirations, societal expectations, and internal familial conflicts. The story begins with the family waiting for a life insurance payment after the father’s death, which sparks dreams of a better life. The Younger family’s interactions reveal tensions between generations and their diverse visions of success and stability.
Context Guide: During this period, African American families faced significant social and economic challenges. Segregation laws often restricted their opportunities for employment, housing, and education. The Younger family's desire to move into a predominantly white neighbourhood highlights the themes of racial discrimination and the struggle for dignity. Their familial bonds are tested by external pressures and personal ambitions, illustrating the complex interplay between family loyalty and individual aspirations. The play’s dialogue and character development reflect the broader societal struggles of the time, making it a vital exploration of identity, race, and family in mid-20th-century America. Notable quotes include 'What do you think you are going to gain by moving into a white neighbourhood?' and 'We one group of men tied to a race of women. We could be free if we could only get rid of each other.'
1.
Briefly summarise the main themes of the scene and context provided.
[2 marks]2.
Identify one quote from the context guide that reflects societal attitudes towards race during the period.
[2 marks]3.
Explain how the historical setting influences the family’s decision-making in the play.
[4 marks]4.
Describe the social challenges faced by African American families like the Youngers in the 1950s.
[4 marks]5.
Identify and explain a literary technique used in the dialogue to emphasise family tension.
[3 marks]6.
Discuss how the play’s setting influences the characters’ hopes and fears about their future.
[4 marks]7.
Identify a phrase in the summary that hints at the central conflict of the play.
[2 marks]8.
How does the historical context of segregation impact the family’s aspirations?
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet