plumiThe History Boys: OCR A‑Level English Literature questions
Every OCR A-Level English Literature exam question on The History Boys, 2021–2025, with its mark scheme and examiner’s report.
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Q4(a)
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All 8 questions on The History Boys, as a list
- June 2025, AS Component 2, Q4(a) (30 marks): ‘A play that explores frustration as much as success.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this comment on The History Boys?
- June 2025, AS Component 2, Q4(b) (30 marks): ‘Irwin’s personal insecurities come through in his cynical teaching methods.’ In the light of this comment, discuss the role of Irwin in The History Boys.
- June 2024, AS Component 2, Q4(a) (30 marks): ‘It is never quite clear whether the boys gain or lose by the teaching they receive.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this comment on The History Boy
- June 2024, AS Component 2, Q4(b) (30 marks): ‘Hector is a born rebel, but a very unpredictable one.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this view of the role of Hector in The History Boys?
- June 2023, AS Component 2, Q4(a) (30 marks): ‘The play proves all knowledge is precious whether or not it serves the slightest human use.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this comment on The His
- June 2023, AS Component 2, Q4(b) (30 marks): ‘A world where teachers sell themselves, not their subjects.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this view of the roles of the teachers in The History B
- June 2022, AS Component 2, Q4(a) (30 marks): ‘Good teaching always comes at a cost.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this comment on The History Boys?
- June 2022, AS Component 2, Q4(b) (30 marks): ‘Surely Mrs. Lintott is this play’s real hero?’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this view of the role of Mrs. Lintott in The History Boys?
Questions, mark schemes and examiner’s reports are © OCR, from their published past papers. Plumi isn’t affiliated with any exam board. Want whole papers? Every OCR A-Level English Literature paper.
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