Macbeth, Act 3, sc 4: Banquo’s ghost at the feast

In this lesson students are asked to consider how Shakespeare exposes Macbeth’s loss of control. The lesson starts by asking students to identify where in the play so far the theme of the supernatural has been explored. Students are then asked to read the scene where Macbeth alone sees Banquo's ghost and reacts wildly in front of his guests (a link is provided to Patrick Stewart's performance). In groups they are then asked to consider key questions about how his behaviour builds tension and how it reflects his loss of control. The lesson ends with an opportunity to respond independently by writing an essay paragraph.

All lessons in this series include:

- Links to online videos (see 'notes' under powerpoint slides)
- Starter tasks which introduce the main idea of the lesson
- Differentiated tasks
- Opportunities for pair and group talk within activities ('Talk for Writing')
- Handouts of scenes or a selection of quotes from scenes studied
- Alternating opportunities for self and peer assessment
- Essay writing prompts to allow students to write about the scene
- References to the AQA English Literature mark scheme for Paper 1, particularly to the demands for attaining a grade 5 - what is considered a 'good pass' for the qualification.

It's suggested that you download the whole series to appreciate the full learning journey.