Worksheet on An Inspector Calls: Themes of Class
English
Grade 7
6 questions
~12 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet focusing on the theme of class in J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls' designed for Grade 7 students to analyze and annotate key passages and techniques.
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Worksheet on An Inspector Calls: Themes of Class
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 7
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 7
A
Introduction and Scene Summary
In J.B. Priestley's 'An Inspector Calls,' the setting unfolds in the Birling family’s home, where multiple characters embody different social classes. The play explores issues of social responsibility, privilege, and inequality. The Inspector's visit acts as a catalyst for revealing underlying tensions. A key phrase from the play states, 'a man has to mind his own business and look after himself,' which reflects the attitude of the upper class towards social responsibility. The play is set in 1912, a period marked by rigid class distinctions, yet Priestley critiques this division by emphasizing the interconnectedness of society. The characters' dialogues and actions reveal their attitudes towards class—some display entitlement, while others show guilt or denial. The phrase 'public school and university' highlights the privileged background of certain characters, contrasting with others' humble origins. As the story unfolds, the play challenges the audience to consider the moral responsibilities attached to social class and the impact of individual actions on society as a whole.
1.
What does the phrase 'a man has to mind his own business and look after himself' suggest about the attitude of the upper class in the play?
[2 marks]2.
Identify the time period in which the play is set and explain why this is significant for the theme of class.
[3 marks]B
Analyzing Themes and Techniques
The family discuss their social standing, with Mr. Birling claiming, 'The way some of these cranks talk and write now, you’d think everybody had to look after everybody else, as if we were all mixed up together like bees in a hive – community and all that nonsense.' This comment employs a simile comparing society to a beehive to critique the idea of collective responsibility, highlighting class tensions.
1.
Identify the literary technique used in the phrase 'like bees in a hive' and explain its effect.
[3 marks]2.
How does Priestley use dialogue to highlight class differences? Provide an example from the passage.
[3 marks]C
Creative Writing: Alternative Ending
Imagine you are one of the characters in the play. Write a short scene (up to 150 words) where your character reflects on their views about social class after the inspector's visit. Use dialogue and description to express your thoughts.
1.
Create a scene where your character changes their attitude about social class. Include at least one piece of dialogue and a brief description of their feelings.
D
Reflection: Personal Views on Class
In 3-5 sentences, answer how the play's themes about social class relate to your own experiences or observations today.
1.
In your opinion, is social class still a significant issue today? Why or why not?
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet