Fences - Social Issues in 1950s Pittsburgh

English
GCSE
9 questions
~18 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

A worksheet exploring the social issues depicted in Fences set in 1950s Pittsburgh, with a focus on creative writing tasks.

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Fences - Social Issues in 1950s Pittsburgh

Subject: EnglishGrade: GCSE
Name:
Date:
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade GCSE
A

Scene Summary and Context

Set in 1950s Pittsburgh, the play Fences centres on Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned garbage collector, grappling with racial discrimination, economic hardship, and familial responsibilities. The narrative explores how societal barriers impact individual aspirations and relationships within a Black American community facing segregation and prejudice. The scene reflects the tension between personal ambition and societal limitations, highlighting issues of race, social mobility, and generational conflict. Key phrases such as 'the fence' symbolise barriers—both physical and emotional—that characters struggle to overcome. The play's portrayal of working-class life is marked by resilience amid systemic adversity, illustrating the ongoing fight for dignity and equality within a racially divided society.
1.
Identify and explain the significance of the phrase 'the fence' as used in the context of the play.
[2 marks]
2.
Describe how racial discrimination is depicted in the play’s setting and character interactions.
[3 marks]
3.
What social issues are confronted by Troy Maxson, and how do they influence his character development?
[4 marks]
4.
Analyse how the characterisation of Troy reflects broader societal barriers faced by African Americans in the 1950s.
[8 marks]
5.
Identify a metaphor used in the play and discuss its significance in illustrating social issues.
[3 marks]
6.
How does the dialogue between Troy and his son reflect tensions related to social mobility?
[3 marks]
7.
Select the correct statement: Which of the following best describes the central theme of the play?
Aa) Family loyalty
Bb) Social barriers and racial discrimination
Cc) Economic prosperity
Dd) Personal ambition
8.
Create a short monologue from Troy’s perspective expressing his feelings about the societal barriers he faces.
9.
Write a brief scene where a character discusses the theme of social division in 1950s Pittsburgh. Include key phrases and symbolism.

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Details

Created
12/31/2025
Updated
12/31/2025
Type
worksheet