The History Boys

    AQA
    GCSE

    Set in a Sheffield grammar school in the 1980s, Alan Bennett's play follows eight sixth-form students preparing for the Oxbridge entrance examinations. The narrative is driven by the dialectical conflict between three distinct pedagogical approaches: Hector's humanistic pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, Mrs Lintott's factual grounding, and Irwin's cynical, contrarian focus on examination technique. As the boys navigate intellectual maturation and sexual awakening, the play interrogates the purpose of education and the nature of historical truth. The structure utilizes prolepsis and meta-theatrical narration to frame the tragic denouement of Hector's dismissal and death, ultimately questioning the legacy of teaching.

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    Objectives
    4
    Exam Tips
    4
    Pitfalls
    4
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • AO1: Develop a conceptualized response to the task, using precise textual references (e.g., the Holocaust scene, the motorcycle) to support an argument.
    • AO2: Analyse Bennett's dramatic methods, including the use of 'flash-forwards', the breaking of the fourth wall, and the contrast in pedagogical styles.
    • AO3: Integrate contextual ideas regarding 1980s educational policy, Thatcherism, and societal attitudes towards sexuality and high culture.
    • AO4: Maintain technical accuracy in spelling, punctuation, and grammar to secure the separate 4 marks available for SPaG.

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "You have identified the contrast here; now analyze the dramatic impact of this juxtaposition on the audience."
    • "Link the context of the 1980s directly to Irwin's pragmatic teaching style rather than stating it as a separate fact."
    • "Use a short, embedded quotation to support this point about Hector, rather than describing the scene."
    • "Excellent analysis of the dialogue; now consider how the stage directions enhance this moment."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • AO1: Develop a conceptualized response to the task, using precise textual references (e.g., the Holocaust scene, the motorcycle) to support an argument.
    • AO2: Analyse Bennett's dramatic methods, including the use of 'flash-forwards', the breaking of the fourth wall, and the contrast in pedagogical styles.
    • AO3: Integrate contextual ideas regarding 1980s educational policy, Thatcherism, and societal attitudes towards sexuality and high culture.
    • AO4: Maintain technical accuracy in spelling, punctuation, and grammar to secure the separate 4 marks available for SPaG.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Memorize 3-4 versatile quotations for each main character and theme, as this is a closed-book exam.
    • 💡Focus on the structural contrast between Hector and Irwin as a representation of opposing educational philosophies.
    • 💡Always refer to the audience's reaction when discussing dramatic techniques (e.g., the uncomfortable humor or the tragic ending).
    • 💡Allocate 5 minutes for planning to ensure the argument covers the whole text, including the flash-forwards.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Confusing the film adaptation with the play (e.g., citing scenes exclusive to the movie).
    • Treating characters as real people rather than dramatic constructs serving a thematic purpose.
    • Bolted-on context about the 1980s or Alan Bennett's life without linking it to the specific question.
    • Describing the plot or character actions without analyzing the dramatic effect on the audience.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Likely Command Words

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