“The Slab Boys” The “Older” Generation

Sadie Context = Tea lady – engages in conversation with all characters – it lets us see her relationship with each individual. Maternal with Hector/ protective – this relationship shows Hector’s isolation when Sadie is not around. Observes and comments on Alan’s manners – reinforcing the theme of social class/inequality.

What reasons could there be for Sadie being protective? Make a note of all of Sadie’s negative comments to P & S. Why do you think Sadie is kind to Alan? P & S are seen stealing – what effect does this have on the attitude of the audience towards these characters? Sadie seems surprised when Hector wants a “double” ticket – what does her surprise reveal about Hector?

Feels protective towards Hector because she feels sorry for him Feels protective towards Hector because she feels sorry for him. The other boys often “pick on” him so she feels the need to defend him. She is aware of his character and how he is weaker than P & S so will not stick up for himself. Calls them “hooligans” “your mothers would be ashamed of you” “savages” “gleckit” Alan is new and of a higher social class – link to social inequality. P & S – audience are supposed to think less of them. Sadie doesn’t think that Hector would be able to get someone to go, she sees him as a child.

Mr Curry Pg 31-32 2nd encounter with Mr Curry. Context: 2nd encounter with Mr Curry. Sadie and Curry are from different generations and their interaction with the “slab boys” gives us a different view of the slab room banter.

Complaint about the slab room Task 1 Write the heading “complaints about the slab room”. Complete the table Complaint about the slab room Attitude

Task 2: Curry’s need for order Vs Slab boy’s rejection of order Identify comments where you think Curry is demanding authority. In groups, discuss the contrast between Curry, who is almost a stereotype of an authority figure, and the rebellion shown by the slab boys suggests about social order at that time.