Discussion points

A range of resources that are particularly good for prompting class discussion

This task was originally used for Functional Skills although it can be applied just as effectively to literacy sessions. The task aims to encourage learners to work in small groups to discuss what each phrase really means and therefore explore the different interpretations that other people have of them. Also makes a good ice breaker. Includes proverb cards, answer sheet and worksheet.

Level
Level 1
Entry Level 3
English
Adult Literacy: Engage in Discussion
Functional English - speaking, listening & communicating

Cards that can be laminated and used over and over again for speaking and listening using persuasive language. Ideal for Functional Skills English speaking, listening and communication practice.

Level
Level 2
Level 1
Entry Level 3
English
Present information
Functional English - speaking, listening & communicating

A set of resources created for a group 16-19 year olds with high functioning ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) but suitable for any E2-E3 literacy /Functional English student.

Involves discussion of year’s highlights, and a written reflection and prediction exercise. Finally, the students record their hopes and wishes which are then kept in sealed envelopes until l the end of the academic year (or other agreed date).

Level
Entry Level 3
Entry Level 2
English
Functional English - writing
Adult Literacy: Writing
General
Autistic spectrum support

Set of Remembrance Day tasks covering reading, writing and discussion.
Ideal for, and fully mapped to, Entry Level 1 and 2 Functional English. With teaching tips and extension ideas.

Level
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 1
English
General literacy / English
Functional Skills English
Context
Voluntary, Charity and Community
History, culture, museums, libraries

Topical set of resources covering reading, writing and discussion.Two simplified texts – one writer likes fireworks; the other does not! What do you think?
Ideal for, and fully mapped to, Entry Level 1 and 2 Functional English. With teaching tips and extension ideas.

Level
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 1
English
General literacy / English
Functional Skills English

I have found that many numeracy students get scared when you mention terms like percentages or fractions. I therefore developed this introductory activity for my new level 1 numeracy students. They are mostly young parents who were disengaged at school and have no mathematics qualifications.

They are usually nervous when they attend the first session so I try to boost their confidence and reassure them that the course will not be like school.

Level
Level 1
Entry Level 3
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 1
Maths
General numeracy / maths
Functional Maths

Comprehension questions, writing and discussion based on car adverts. This resource is suitable for motor vehicle students, or a more general audience.

Learners can discuss the important features of a car advert and the advice they would give their tutor. They can then practice writing their own car adverts (not full sentences). They can also write down the advice they would give their tutor, using full sentences and paying attention to spelling and punctuation.

Ideal for, and fully mapped to, Entry 2-3 Functional Skills English.

Level
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 3
English
Functional English - speaking, listening & communicating
Functional English reading
Functional English - writing
Context
Motor vehicles & Transport

This lesson is designed to embed adding and subtracting, ratio and proportion, etc. whilst looking at the important issue of alcohol consumption and units. Students are able to look at the RDA of alcohol consumption, binge drinking, etc. in the introductory PPT. They can then complete maths worksheet which involves calculating and adding units, converting units and reading data.
It includes a video clips, visual imagery and written notes.
Fully mapped to, and ideal for, L1 Functional Maths.

Level
Level 1
Maths
HD1/L1.1
N1/L1.10
AN N1/L1.7
Functional Maths - numbers and the number system
Functional Maths - handling information and data
General
Generic resources for literacy, numeracy and beyond
Context
Health, Social care, Early years

Aimed at getting motor vehicle students talking in readiness for Functional Skills English (speaking, listening and communication) exams.
Lots of prompts for discussing the pros and cons of driving modified cars. Fully mapped to E3 Functional English.

Level
Entry Level 3
English
SLd/E3.3
SLd/E3.2
SLd/E3.1
Functional English - speaking, listening & communicating
Context
Motor vehicles & Transport

This is a worksheet that can be used for discussion and /or writing. The learners can discuss the advice they would give and then practice writing it down in full sentences using correct selling and punctuation. It also helps them to start thinking about being tactful!
Ideal for, and fully mapped to, Functional English writing and discussion.

Level
Level 1
Entry Level 3
English
Functional English - writing
Functional English - speaking, listening & communicating
Adult Literacy: Speaking & Listening
Context
Hairdressing & Beauty therapy