Macbeth - AS Level

Subject: English Literature
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 16 - 18
Order Number: 5208

This material has been developed as a result of the need for detailed study and revision of Macbeth, with groups of pupils approximately 17 years old, studying AS Level. It can, however, be used successfully with groups aged 15 to 16 years. There are questions on every scene in the play, and there are additional notes as well as constant reminders of the themes and the imagery as they appear. These notes have been included to make the study of the play as comprehensive as possible. This material has been very well-received by students: they gain confidence with their growing knowledge of the play and appreciation of its subtleties. There are frequent suggestions among these revision questions as to which passages or lines could be memorised.

Once the play has been read in class, and preferably after they have watched a film version, or a performance of the play, the pupils are to write their own answers to all the questions, in their own time. These prepared answers are read out aloud, in turn, in class, and lively discussion often ensues. The students may mark their own work and add anything they may have left out. Each question has the answer separately provided for the teacher's use.

One of the benefits of this method is that teachers do not have to mark all the students' work, though occasionally the students' files may be taken in to check that they are doing it properly. However, the best aspect of this approach to the study of the play is that it gives each pupil the opportunity to re-read the play for him or herself, and to formulate answers. This material provides a framework for a rewarding and thorough study of Macbeth, as well as giving the pupils a chance to express their own ideas and make a personal response to the play, both in writing and orally. Every effort has been made to inculcate a love of Shakespeare's language, and an interest in the recurring themes in this fascinating play.