Year 10 - English
'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of Sheila
An Inspector Calls: power and responsibility
Study Hub
Study Guides
This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils start their exploration of the characters, themes and ideas in 'An Inspector Calls'. They first look at the key context behind the play, before exploring each of the main characters and themes. They finally plan and write an essay about the role of responsibility in the play.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to understand and explain the presentation and significance of Sheila in 'An Inspector Calls'.
Key Notes
- Sheila's journey in the play can be described as transformative.
- The Inspector emotionally impacts Sheila and acknowledges she is "impressionable".
- Sheila aligns herself with the Inspector's purpose and moral messages.
- The younger generation being seen as a symbol of change and hope is a timeless idea.
- Priestley uses Sheila, a member of the younger generation, to explore ideas around hope and optimism.
Vocabulary To Learn
- transformative: causing a significant change or improvement in someone or something
- enlightened: gaining knowledge, understanding, or awareness, especially about important issues or truths
- optimism: the belief or attitude that things will turn out well, looking at the positive side of situations
- societal norms: the accepted rules, behaviors, and values that are considered normal or typical in a society or group
- moral: relating to principles of right and wrong behavior, or what is considered good or bad in society
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Sheila's transformation guarantees societal change.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.
Sheila's journey in the play can be described as transformative. The Inspector emotionally impacts Sheila and acknowledges she is "impressionable".
2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'transformative'
causing a significant change or improvement in someone or something.
3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.
Mistake: Sheila's transformation guarantees societal change. Correction: While her growth is significant, it doesn't ensure broader social progress, as societal norms and traditions play a major role.
More Lessons In This Unit
- 'An Inspector Calls' : annotating essay questions and writing a thesis statement Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring class and power in a model essay Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring class and power through Gerald and Eva Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring Priestley's use of structure Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of Eric Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of Mr. Birling Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of Mrs. Birling Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': exploring the character of the Inspector Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': the importance of setting and stage directions Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': understanding and exploring key themes Study Guide
- 'An Inspector Calls': understanding context and Priestley's influences Study Guide
- Planning and writing an essay on 'An Inspector Calls' Study Guide
- Using context effectively in writing about 'An Inspector Calls' Study Guide
- Writing analytically about Priestley's presentation of the older generation Study Guide
- Writing introductions and conclusions for an 'An Inspector Calls' essay Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 10 English guide library.