Rw/L2.2

Use reference materials to: find the meanings of unfamiliar words to research a subject or topic
(a) Understand that there are different sources of information for word meanings, how they are structured, and the conventions they use, e.g. paper and electronic dictionaries, glossaries, keys
(b) Understand that there are different types of dictionary, e.g. contemporary usage, slang, quotations, etymological, antonyms and synonyms
(c) Understand that it is possible to research a subject or topic from different sources, e.g. encyclopaedia, text books, internet, journals

A short exercise for Construction students to read the official definition for several terms and then write their understanding of the definition in their own words.

Level
Level 1
English
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L1.2
Rw/L1.1
Context
Construction Carpentry Plumbing

[img_assist|nid=5121|title=|desc=|link=popup|align=left|width=68|height=100]This resource explores the differences between synonyms, antonyms and acronyms.
It includes an introductory PPT, a sorting activity with synonym cards, a Smart Notebook activity for interactive whiteboards, an antonym work sheet, and a synonym writing exercise.

I have found this a great resource for encouraging learners to explore a greater range of vocabulary, use dictionary and thesuarus skills, improve spelling and encourage descriptive and creative writing.

Level
Level 2
Level 1
English
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L1.3
Rw/L1.1

Fun and fast paced team game for any group from E2 to L2. The focus is on looking up words quickly and accurately. Full instructions included. Easily differentiated for different groups.
Makes a great warm up exercise.

Level
Level 2
Level 1
Entry Level 3
Entry Level 2
English
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L1.1
Rw/E3.3
Rw/E2.3

Two Tarsia puzzles based around formal and informal language. Guaranteed to prompt discussion as learners solve the puzzles. I suggest that the smaller one (16 piece triangle) is roughly at L1 and the larger on (24 piece hexagon) is at L2. I have duplicated some of my word choices from Imogen Stewart’s excellent ‘Little Britain’ (Language: formal, informal or slang?) resource which was also about formal and informal language (see link below). ‘Cheers’ has ‘regards’ as its synonym because of email sign offs – which I have found to be an interesting topic for discussion.

Level
Level 2
Level 1
English
Functional English - writing
Adult Lit Wt/L2.5 Use formal & informal language appropriate to purpose & audience
Adult Lit Wt/L1.4 Use language suitable for purpose and audience
AL Rw/L2.3 Vocabulary (language features, synonyms, formality)
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L1.3

A topical Level 2 reading and writing assignment based on an article from the from the Observer. Ideal for early spring / late winter but can be used any time of year. Covers comprehension, purpose of text, apostrophes, vocabulary and dictionary work, and writing. Includes differentiation and extension ideas.

Level
Level 2
English
Adult Lit Wt/L2.3 Present information and ideas in a logical or persuasive sequence, using paragraphs where appropriate
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L2.1
Rt/L2.2 Identify the purpose of a text and infer meaning which is not explicit
Rt/L2.1 Trace and understand the main events of continuous descriptive, explanatory and persuasive texts
Context
Science, Nature & Weather

A vocabulary building activity, involving dictionary use. Played in teams and based on the TV programme ‘Call My Bluff’. Teams compete to identify the true definition of a word when given a choice of three definitions, with one being true and two being false.

A great way to get learners to work together. I usually play this with level 1 and level 2 learners, either at the end of a session as an on going activity or as part of a session.

Level
Level 2
Level 1
English
SLd/L2.1
SLd/L1.1
AL Rw/L2.3 Vocabulary (language features, synonyms, formality)
Rw/L2.2
Rw/L1.3
Rw/L1.1
Context
Art Film Media Music Radio TV

A series of comprehension, vocabulary, apostrophe and summarising questions.

Level
Level 2
English
Rt/L2.1 Trace and understand the main events of continuous descriptive, explanatory and persuasive texts
Rt/L2.8
Rw/L2.2
AL Ws/L2.4 Use apostrophes & inverted commas
Context
Art Film Media Music Radio TV

Topical comprehension based on a 2001 BBC News report with comprehension & vocabulary questions written for E2E learners. Although this is an old report from 2001 it is still of interest to younger students and ideal for provoking discussion about appropriate language, lyrics, etc.

Level
Level 2
English
Rt/L2.1 Trace and understand the main events of continuous descriptive, explanatory and persuasive texts
Rt/L2.3 Identify the main points and specific detail
AL Rw/L2.3 Vocabulary (language features, synonyms, formality)
Rw/L2.2
Adult Literacy: writing composition (Wt)

A Level 2 text with comprehension questions. Ideal for any student with an interest in history.

Level
Level 2
English
Rt/L2.1 Trace and understand the main events of continuous descriptive, explanatory and persuasive texts
AL Rw/L2.3 Vocabulary (language features, synonyms, formality)
Rw/L2.2

5 page workpack covers punctuation and vocabulary. Written for history students that are also covering basic literacy but useful for any students with an interest in ancient Britain.

Level
Entry Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
English
Rs/E3.3
Rs/L1.2
Adult Lit Rs/L2.2 Use punctuation to help interpret the meaning and purpose of texts
AL Rw/L2.3 Vocabulary (language features, synonyms, formality)
Rw/L1.1
Rw/L2.2
Ws/E3.4
Ws/L1.3
AL Ws/L2.4 Use apostrophes & inverted commas
Context
History, culture, museums, libraries