Worksheet on Fences - 1950s Pittsburgh
English
Year 9
7 questions
~14 mins
5 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet comprising exam-style questions focusing on the play Fences, set in 1950s Pittsburgh, designed for Year 9 students.
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Worksheet on Fences - 1950s Pittsburgh
Subject: EnglishGrade: Year 9
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Year 9
A
Context and Scene Summary
Fences is set in Pittsburgh during the 1950s, a period marked by racial segregation, economic hardship, and social change. The play revolves around Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned sanitation worker, who struggles with personal limitations, family tensions, and racial barriers. The city’s industrial landscape provides a backdrop that reflects the struggles of African Americans seeking opportunity and equality amidst persistent discrimination. Troy’s interactions with his wife Rose, his son Cory, and other characters reveal the tensions between aspiration and reality, personal pride and societal constraints. The title 'Fences' symbolises both physical barriers and emotional boundaries, illustrating the characters’ attempts to protect themselves while also confining their lives within certain limits. Short phrases like 'racial discrimination' or 'economic hardship' highlight key themes that underpin the narrative, encouraging students to think critically about the historical context influencing character motivations and actions.
1.
What is the significance of the title 'Fences' in relation to the play's themes?
[2 marks]B
Character Analysis
Troy Maxson is portrayed as a complex character facing the challenges of racial discrimination and personal disappointment. Once a talented baseball player, his aspirations are thwarted by racial barriers of the time, leading to feelings of bitterness. His relationships with family members are strained by his pride, stubbornness, and protective instincts. Troy's speech often reveals a sense of frustration with societal limitations, and his decisions reflect a conflict between personal desire and responsibility.
1.
Identify a metaphor used by Troy to describe his feelings of confinement.
[2 marks]C
Literary Techniques
In one scene, Troy says, 'I’m just trying to provide for my family.' The tone shifts when he adds, 'But sometimes I feel like I’m in a cage.' The dialogue employs metaphor and tone to express his internal conflict.
1.
Identify the metaphor used in Troy’s dialogue and explain its impact.
[2 marks]D
Thematic Exploration
Fences illustrates racial discrimination through Troy’s experiences and interactions. The societal barriers limit his opportunities and shape his worldview. The play also examines how racial prejudice influences characters’ decisions and relationships, often leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.
1.
Provide a short example from the play that shows racial discrimination affecting Troy.
[2 marks]E
Creative Writing Task
Imagine you are a character in Fences. Write a monologue from their perspective, expressing their hopes and fears.
1.
Write your monologue in 15-20 lines, focusing on emotional expression and character voice.
[10 marks]F
Character Relationships
Their relationship is strained due to Troy’s strict attitude and his own past disappointments. Troy wants to control Cory’s future, fearing he will face the same racial barriers Troy did, while Cory seeks independence and recognition.
1.
Identify one instance in the play where Troy’s attitude affects Cory’s decisions.
[2 marks]G
Symbolism in the Play
Describe the significance of the fence in the play.
1.
Explain how the fence functions as a symbol for Troy’s character.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet