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Anjalee Mistry
02/09/2025
English Literature
An Inspector Calls knowledge organiser
831
•
2 Sept 2025
•
GCSE English: An Inspector Calls Study Guide for Year 10 - Free PDF, Characters, Themes & More
Anjalee Mistry
@anjalee.mistryyy
1 / 1
Year 10 Knowledge Organiser - An Inspector Calls
This comprehensive study guide provides essential information for Year 10 students studying J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" for their GCSE English Text examination. The document covers crucial aspects of the play, including historical context, plot structure, character analysis, and key quotes.
Context
The guide begins by outlining J.B. Priestley's life and career, highlighting significant events that influenced his writing:
Highlight: Priestley's experiences during World War I and his subsequent education at Cambridge shaped his political and social views, which are reflected in the play.
The historical context is presented in two parts:
-
1912 England: The setting of the play, characterized by work strikes, workers' rights issues, the suffragette movement, and a rigid class system.
-
1945 England: The time when the play was written, marked by post-war social changes, including improved workers' rights, the establishment of trade unions, and the creation of the National Health Service.
Example: The contrast between these two periods is symbolized by images of suffragettes and the NHS logo, illustrating the social progress made between 1912 and 1945.
Plot Structure
The plot is divided into three acts, providing a clear overview of the story's progression:
Act One introduces the Birling family and their celebration of Sheila's engagement, which is interrupted by Inspector Goole's arrival.
Act Two focuses on the questioning of Gerald and Mrs. Birling, revealing their connections to Eva Smith/Daisy Renton.
Act Three concludes with Eric's confession, the Inspector's powerful speech, and the family's realization that the Inspector may not have been real.
Quote: "The Inspector makes a dramatic speech about the consequences of selfish behaviour and social irresponsibility."
Characterisation
The guide offers detailed character profiles for all main characters, including:
- Mr. Arthur Birling: Described as a capitalist, arrogant, and stubborn industrialist
- Mrs. Sybil Birling: Portrayed as judgmental, traditional, and controlling
- Sheila Birling: Characterized as intelligent, emotional, and transformative
- Eric Birling: Depicted as irresponsible, spoilt, and reckless
- Gerald Croft: Presented as aristocratic, secretive, and privileged
- Eva Smith: Described as working-class, determined, and vulnerable
- Inspector Goole: Portrayed as Priestley's mouthpiece, impressive, and commanding
Vocabulary: Allegorical - A character or story that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Key Quotes
The document concludes with a selection of important quotes for each character, providing students with valuable material for textual analysis and essay writing.
Definition: Key quotes are significant lines from the play that reveal character traits, themes, or important plot points.
This An Inspector Calls study guide for year 10 serves as an excellent resource for students preparing for their GCSE English Text examination, offering a comprehensive overview of the play's most important elements.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
GCSE English: An Inspector Calls Study Guide for Year 10 - Free PDF, Characters, Themes & More
Anjalee Mistry
@anjalee.mistryyy
An Inspector Calls study guide for Year 10 students provides essential context, plot structure, character analysis, and key quotes for J.B. Priestley's play. It covers the historical background, main events, and themes, helping students understand the social commentaryand moral... Show more
Year 10 Knowledge Organiser - An Inspector Calls
This comprehensive study guide provides essential information for Year 10 students studying J.B. Priestley's "An Inspector Calls" for their GCSE English Text examination. The document covers crucial aspects of the play, including historical context, plot structure, character analysis, and key quotes.
Context
The guide begins by outlining J.B. Priestley's life and career, highlighting significant events that influenced his writing:
Highlight: Priestley's experiences during World War I and his subsequent education at Cambridge shaped his political and social views, which are reflected in the play.
The historical context is presented in two parts:
-
1912 England: The setting of the play, characterized by work strikes, workers' rights issues, the suffragette movement, and a rigid class system.
-
1945 England: The time when the play was written, marked by post-war social changes, including improved workers' rights, the establishment of trade unions, and the creation of the National Health Service.
Example: The contrast between these two periods is symbolized by images of suffragettes and the NHS logo, illustrating the social progress made between 1912 and 1945.
Plot Structure
The plot is divided into three acts, providing a clear overview of the story's progression:
Act One introduces the Birling family and their celebration of Sheila's engagement, which is interrupted by Inspector Goole's arrival.
Act Two focuses on the questioning of Gerald and Mrs. Birling, revealing their connections to Eva Smith/Daisy Renton.
Act Three concludes with Eric's confession, the Inspector's powerful speech, and the family's realization that the Inspector may not have been real.
Quote: "The Inspector makes a dramatic speech about the consequences of selfish behaviour and social irresponsibility."
Characterisation
The guide offers detailed character profiles for all main characters, including:
- Mr. Arthur Birling: Described as a capitalist, arrogant, and stubborn industrialist
- Mrs. Sybil Birling: Portrayed as judgmental, traditional, and controlling
- Sheila Birling: Characterized as intelligent, emotional, and transformative
- Eric Birling: Depicted as irresponsible, spoilt, and reckless
- Gerald Croft: Presented as aristocratic, secretive, and privileged
- Eva Smith: Described as working-class, determined, and vulnerable
- Inspector Goole: Portrayed as Priestley's mouthpiece, impressive, and commanding
Vocabulary: Allegorical - A character or story that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one.
Key Quotes
The document concludes with a selection of important quotes for each character, providing students with valuable material for textual analysis and essay writing.
Definition: Key quotes are significant lines from the play that reveal character traits, themes, or important plot points.
This An Inspector Calls study guide for year 10 serves as an excellent resource for students preparing for their GCSE English Text examination, offering a comprehensive overview of the play's most important elements.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user