The Handmaid’s Tale – Lesson 23/30: Resistance & Power
This AQA English Literature Paper 2B resource is part of a 30-lesson scheme of work designed to support students studying The Handmaid’s Tale for A Level English Literature. It is also suitable for GCSE English Literature students exploring dystopian fiction, power structures, and resistance themes.
Lesson Overview
In this lesson, students will critically examine the theme of resistance and power in The Handmaid’s Tale, focusing on key moments where characters challenge authority or assert control. Through close textual analysis, structured discussion, and guided essay practice, learners will deepen their understanding of Atwood’s narrative techniques, character development, and thematic concerns.
What’s Included?
- A fully planned lesson with clear learning objectives aligned to AQA English Literature Paper 2B.
- Close reading and analysis tasks, helping students explore how Atwood presents resistance and control.
- Discussion questions and debate prompts, encouraging critical engagement with power dynamics in the text.
- Exam-style practice questions, supporting students in developing analytical and evaluative responses.
- Contextual links, exploring the real-world influences behind Atwood’s portrayal of oppression and rebellion.
Why This Resource?
- Designed to enhance students’ analytical and essay-writing skills for AQA English Literature exams.
- Encourages critical engagement with themes of oppression, autonomy, and political resistance.
- Saves teachers valuable planning time with ready-to-use worksheets, activities, and discussion guides.
Copyright Notice: This resource is for personal classroom use only. Redistribution, resale, or uploading to shared platforms (including school drives and VLEs not for personal classroom use) is strictly prohibited. If you need additional licences, please purchase them separately. © 2024. Revolutionary Education. All rights reserved.









Reviews
There are no reviews yet.