Fences - Father-Son Analysis & Annotation

English
Grade 7
10 questions
~20 mins
1 views0 downloads

About This Worksheet

A worksheet focusing on analyzing the father-son relationship in August Wilson's play Fences. Students will interpret summary passages, identify literary techniques, and reflect on themes related to family and identity.

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Fences - Father-Son Analysis & Annotation

Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 7
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Untitled Worksheet

Grade Grade 7
A

Scene Summary and Context Guide

In August Wilson's play Fences, the story revolves around Troy Maxson, a former baseball player turned garbage collector, and his relationships with his family, particularly his son Cory. The play explores themes of race, regret, and the barriers—both personal and societal—that hinder growth and connection. Troy’s complex character is marked by his struggles with his past and his desire to control his family's future. A key moment occurs when Troy warns Cory about the dangers of chasing dreams, saying, 'You got to understand, it ain’t no more fighting for me.' This phrase encapsulates Troy's cynical view of opportunity and his protective yet domineering attitude toward his son. The interactions between Troy and Cory highlight generational conflicts and differing visions of masculinity and success. Throughout the play, the metaphor of a 'fence' symbolizes the boundaries Troy erects around himself and his family, as well as barriers between generations and opportunities. This passage provides insight into Troy’s worldview and the emotional landscape of the father-son relationship, which is fraught with tension yet deeply rooted in love and disappointment.
B

Questions

Answer the following questions based on the summary and your understanding of the play. Provide detailed responses where indicated.
1.
Describe the main conflict between Troy and his son Cory as presented in the summary.
[2 marks]
2.
What does the phrase 'it ain’t no more fighting for me' suggest about Troy’s attitude towards opportunities and dreams?
[2 marks]
3.
Identify one literary device used in the phrase 'barriers—both personal and societal—that hinder growth and connection.'
[2 marks]
4.
Explain how the metaphor of a 'fence' is used symbolically in the play.
[4 marks]
5.
Analyze how the quote 'You got to understand, it ain’t no more fighting for me' reveals Troy's character.
[2 marks]
6.
List one theme explored through the father-son relationship in the play.
[1 mark]
7.
Identify and explain a literary technique used in the phrase 'metaphor of a fence.'
[2 marks]
8.
Based on the summary, create a short paragraph explaining how the play's themes are relevant to contemporary family dynamics.
[4 marks]
9.
Creative Writing Prompt: Imagine Troy writes a letter to his son Cory sharing his feelings about the barriers they face. Write the opening paragraph of this letter.
[4 marks]
10.
Create a checklist of key elements to include when writing your own metaphor about barriers in relationships.
[3 marks]

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Details

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