4: All hail, Macbeth! King of Scotland!
King Duncan's body is quickly discovered and the nobles run from room to room waking the castle.
When Malcolm and Donalbain learn of their father's murder they want to be avenged immediately. Macbeth appears and tells the princes that Duncan's own servants are responsible and that he has already killed them.
Lady Macbeth appears and creates a diversion to save her husband from any awkward questions. Left on their own Malcolm and Donalbain determine they must flee Dunsinane immediately for their own safety.
Macbeth is crowned King of Scotland - the Witches' second prophecy has come true. Following the coronation Macbeth speaks with Banquo to confirm he will be out hunting all afternoon with his son, Fleance. Then Macbeth engages the services of two assassins to kill them - with the intention of preventing the Witches' prophecy regarding Banquo and his descendents coming true.
Teacher Notes
This series provides various opportunities to meet Key Stage 2 National Curriculum requirements, including study of a significant author, reading techniques such as prediction, drawing inferences, clarification and summary; and drama and writing opportunities - including poetry performance, descriptive writing, persuasive writing, letter writing, newspaper article writing, poetry and play scripts.
It could be used as an introduction to the play, consolidation of key aspects or for revision of the plot and characters.
More detail on how to use this series, including detailed lesson plans, can be found in the Teacher's Notes PDF.
Information and guidance on using the content
This series is relevant for teaching English at KS2, in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, and at Second Level in Scotland.
3. Daggers for King Duncan. video
Macbeth returns to Dunsinane where Lady Macbeth persuades him to murder King Duncan.
5. A trap for Banquo. video
Macbeth sends assassins to kill Banquo and Fleance. Later he sees Banquo's ghost.
6. Something wicked this way comes. video
Macbeth returns to the Weird Sisters. They tell him to beware of Macduff.
