Macbeth Kills Duncan, Act 2, scene 2

In this lesson students are asked to explain how Shakespeare builds tension on stage when we hear of Duncan’s murder. Initially the concept of tension is explored, then students are asked to identify where it is built in pairs. The questions posed in the central group work task centre around Shakespeare's stage craft and how news of his death is revealed to the crowd. Key dramatic devices such as elision and stichomythia are introduced and there is an opportunity for students 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.