Paper 2 practice 1
Step 1: Read the sample essay. Discuss it in duos or trios, and list strengths and weaknesses. Return this with the copies
of the essay (if you want your own essay copy, it is linked on the paper 2 webpage as “setting sample.”)
Step 2: In pairs of two or three (or alone, if you prefer), choose one of the following prompts and write an essay (using
Hamlet and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead). This must be handwritten and will be due by the end of next class.
Quick-read the other handout, and use it, as needed, to work through this process to a final essay. Ask questions as
needed.
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Setting can often reflect the underlying ideas in a play. In the light of this statement consider the importance and
use of setting in two or three plays you have studied.
“Drama is created by placing ordinary people in situations of crisis.” Explore some of the methods used to create
drama in this way in at least two of the plays you have studied.
“Playwrights often employ stereotypes in their creation of characters, but most often their techniques are
directed to the presentation of individuals.” Discuss how far such a ‘rule’ is demonstrated or not in plays you
have studied.
Dramatists often utilise entrances and exits in different ways and with differing effects. Compare or contrast the
entrances and exits of characters in at least two plays you have studied and consider what dramatic use is made
of these devices.
One of the most useful conventions for a playwright in establishing dramatic impact is the use of carefully chosen
entrances and exits. In at least two plays you have studied, explore the way playwrights have used such features.
Paper 2 practice 1
Step 1: Read the sample essay. Discuss it in duos or trios, and list strengths and weaknesses. Return this with the copies
of the essay (if you want your own essay copy, it is linked on the paper 2 webpage as “setting sample.”)
Step 2: In pairs of two or three (or alone, if you prefer), choose one of the following prompts and write an essay (using
Hamlet and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead). This must be handwritten and will be due by the end of next class.
Quick-read the other handout, and use it, as needed, to work through this process to a final essay. Ask questions as
needed.





Setting can often reflect the underlying ideas in a play. In the light of this statement consider the importance and
use of setting in two or three plays you have studied.
“Drama is created by placing ordinary people in situations of crisis.” Explore some of the methods used to create
drama in this way in at least two of the plays you have studied.
“Playwrights often employ stereotypes in their creation of characters, but most often their techniques are
directed to the presentation of individuals.” Discuss how far such a ‘rule’ is demonstrated or not in plays you
have studied.
Dramatists often utilise entrances and exits in different ways and with differing effects. Compare or contrast the
entrances and exits of characters in at least two plays you have studied and consider what dramatic use is made
of these devices.
One of the most useful conventions for a playwright in establishing dramatic impact is the use of carefully chosen
entrances and exits. In at least two plays you have studied, explore the way playwrights have used such features.