Adult Basic Skills Resource Centre - Home Free Entry Level 3 Literacy / Functional English Resources

Entry 3 Literacy RESOURCES INDEX  page last updated 30/07/10

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 General Entry 3 literacy resources that cover many curriculum elements (reading, writing, speaking & listening)               Help with curriculum elements

Functional English - general| Assessment, practice papers, etc. | Multiple skills or levels | SoW, lesson plans, curriculum docs | Miscellaneous (inc. seasonal - topical) |

Speaking and Listening General Entry 3 speaking and listening resources that cover many curriculum elements
SLr/E3 Listen and respond SLc/E3 Speak to communicate SLd/E3 Engage in discussion
E3.1 Follow gist E3.1 Speak clearly E3.1 Follow main points
E3.2 Listen for detail E3.2 Use formal language / register E3.2 Make relevant contributions
E3.3 Identify new information E3.3 Express statements clearly E3.3 Respect turn taking rights
E3.4 Confirm understanding E3.4 Make requests & ask questions
E3.5 Respond to other points of view    
E3.6 Respond to questions
 

Text Focus

Sentence Focus Word Focus
Reading General Entry 3 reading resources that cover many curriculum elements
Rt/E3 Reading comprehension Rs/E3 Grammar and Punctuation Rw/E3 Vocabulary & word recognition
E3.1 Trace main events E3.1 Instructions - imperative, etc. E3.1 Key specialist words

E3.2  Purpose of text

E3.2 Use knowledge of word classes to decode / predict meaning E3.2 Vocabulary on forms
E3.3 Organisation & language of instructions E3.3 Use a dictionary
E3.4 Main points. Predict meaning of words E3.4 Alphabetic order (first two letters)
E3.5 Use organisational features to locate info E3.3 Use punctuation to aid understanding E3.5 Strategies to decode unfamiliar words: compound words | roots, prefixes & suffixes | general decoding inc. homographs | phonics
E3.6 Skimming
E3.7 Scanning
E3.8 Detailed reading
E3.9 Relate an image to print
 

Text Focus

Sentence Focus Word Focus
Writing

General Entry 3 writing resources that cover many curriculum elements

Wt/E3 Writing composition Ws/E3 Grammar and Punctuation Ww/E3 Spelling and Handwriting
E3.1 Planning: writing frames /planners | general drafting and planning | spidergrams / mindmaps E3.1 Sentences (simple & compound), connectives E3.1 Spelling specialist key words: general  strategies inc. mnemonics | dictionary work | confusables | contextualised | crosswords | cloze exercises
E3.2 Paragraphs E3.2 Pronouns
E3.3 Sequence chronological writing E3.3 Basic grammar (tense & subject-verb agreement) E3.2 Spelling using phonological patterns: general spelling resources | compound words | silent letters | syllables | root words, prefixes, suffixes (inc. plurals) | common letter strings
E3.4 Proof read for spelling & grammar E3.4 Punctuation (capital letters, full stop, question mark, exclamation mark, commas)
    E3.3 Produce legible text (handwritten and word processed)

 HELP: read this section if you are new to the site or unfamiliar with the adult literacy curriculum
HOW TO MAKE SENSE OF THE RESOURCE LISTINGS AND THE CURRICULUM ELEMENTS ON THIS PAGE

All worksheets and resources on this page are all linked Entry Level 3 of the Adult Literacy Core Curriculum (England). To find resources for other levels of the curriculum (pre-Entry, E1, E2, L1, L2) click here.  If you can't find the resource you need - please contact Maggie for help. The original 2001 printed version of the adult literacy curriculum has been updated (2009) and replaced by an online interactive curriculum on the Excellence Gateway site (you will need to register in order to access the literacy, numeracy, pre-entry and ESOL curricula).

Some resources (shown by purple shading) in the literacy sections are linked to the DfES Skills for life Learner Materials. Printed versions of these (with audio CDS) were available free to all institutions in England teaching adult literacy, numeracy or ESOL. They are still available as PDF downloads on the Excellence Gateway. Some hard copies may also still be available - see here.

Rt/E3.2 Recognise the different purposes of texts at this level

The deep green section gives the curriculum area and element number.

E3 = Entry Level 3
R = reading, W = writing: ( t = text, s = sentence, w = word)

SL = speaking & listening (lr = listen & respond, c = speak to communicate, d = engage in discussion).

(a) understand that different texts have different purposes, e.g. to inform, explain, instruct, entertain, describe, persuade

The medium green section gives extra information about the skills, knowledge and understanding expected from learners after working on this curriculum element. There can be between 0-7 sub-elements listed (this example includes 3: labelled a, b and c).

Note - white highlighting indicates elements or sub-elements that have been added or amended in the 2009 curriculum update.

(b) understand that texts of the same form can have different purposes, e.g. a letter
(c) understand that lexis varies according to register
  • Select appropriate texts to suit their own purposes in daily life, e.g. newspaper, telephone directory, computer manual, tourist information leaflet, website.

The pale green bulleted section lists suggested activities and examples as listed in the new online curriculum. The new online curriculum on the Excellence Gateway also has an area where tutors can add their own suggested activities.

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Fantasy job project is a great way to get student looking at job adverts and discussing what is required by employers. This scaffolded writing task lists points for students to consider  before planning A3 job adverts/posters. First used with New Deal students. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd.  2 pages. 30K

The grey section lists resources covering the described curriculum element. Resources are normally listed chronologically - those at the top of the section are the most recent. Some large sections, such as spelling, may have sub-menus. Most resources are available as printable PDF documents (see blue PDF hyperlinks on left-hand side of listings) but other formats include ZIP and XLS. Note: the PDF links in this sample help section have been deactivated!) Learn more about downloading, saving or printing our resources. To obtain editable Word versions of resources read this.

PDF Be my Valentine is a brilliant resource - especially for younger, teenage students. Includes an original poem, discussion of slang, background info on Valentines Day, writing and speaking ideas. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 4 pages. 150K.

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Entry 3 - General Resources

General Resources sub-sections 

Assessment, practice papers, etc. Multiple skills or levels SoW, lesson plans, curriculum docs   Miscellaneous (inc seasonal - topical)

General E3 Functional English

PDF

2010-11 Premier League football season is a fantastic set of Functional Skills and literacy/numeracy activities, interspersed with word games and quizzes for lighter moments. A great way to engage mixed ability groups of football fans! Topics include pie charts,  bar charts,  averages, goal differences, league table questions, nick names,  ground capacity, interviews with Ancelotti and Ferguson (comprehension), buying a season ticket, directions to the match, pitch size, discussion, writing sentences and opinions and much more. 25 pages of activities plus answer sheets and complete Functional Maths and English (Entry 3. Level 1 , Level 2) mapping documents. Contributed by Matt Barnes mydoggenius@yahoo.co.uk 35 pages. 350K. Topical resources  Contextualised resources - sport

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Functional Skills Business Project is a fabulous multi-level, multiple-skills project which clearly demonstrates how Functional English, Maths and ICT can be embedded into vocational teaching. Includes budgeting, forecasting, writing business plans, group discussion and much more. Ideal for (and fully mapped to) E3-L2 Functional English and Maths. Contributed by Matt Barnes mydoggenius@yahoo.co.uk 16 pages. 130K. Contextualised - business

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Stop Smoking is a series of very useful Functional English / Literacy reading tasks based on two short topical texts. Covers comprehension, spelling (suffixes), and grammar (parts of speech). Fully mapped to the Functional English criteria. Contributed by Jill Dainton, Jill.Dainton@furness.ac.uk, Furness College, Cumbria. 6 pages. 60K

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What do the three main parties stand for? is a series of reading and writing tasks based on an information text about the three main political parties in the UK. Written to help a group of Entry 3 learners prepare for their Entry 3 literacy tests but also suitable for(and fully mapped to) E3 Functional English. Contributed by Rachel Emmett remmett@tcch.ac.uk Hackney Community College. 5 pages. 60K.

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My MP lesson plan and resources was originally used pre-2010-election in a mixed ability (E1-L2) group but also makes an excellent Functional English resource at any time. Detailed 2.5 hour lesson plan includes discussion, mini-presentations, web research and paired writing. Includes internet research guidance sheets, scaffolded gap-fill sheet to help with the web research task and a sample MP information sheet. Ideal for (and fully mapped to) E3-L2 Functional English. Contributed by Matt Barnes mydoggenius@yahoo.co.uk 8 pages. 55K

ZIP

Stop FE/HE Education Cuts is a set of photographs (taken in Hackney, March 2010), each accompanied by questions to get learners thinking about the effects of proposed education cuts. Designed to accompany any of the  4 related resources on this topic (inc the one below) and ideal for prompting discussion about the importance of education for all.  7 screens. 260K zipped PPT file.

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Stop FE/HE Education Cuts! is a fabulous set of scaffolded reading/writing tasks - written for E2-E3 ESOL but absolutely ideal for Entry 2-3 (and higher) Functional English. The reading is based on three different topical texts on this emotive subject. The writing involves writing a letter to your MP  - a frame is  provided for E2 writers. Get your college/students involved in this now! With full details of relevant Functional English criteria.  Contributed by Rachel Emmett remmett@tcch.ac.uk Hackney Community College. 6 pages. 200K.

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Functional English task sheets for Care (Early Years) provides contextualised help with the underpinning skills necessary to achieve Functional English (FE) at E3-L1. Includes reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, fact and opinion, sentence structure, writing and discussion. With full details of relevant FE criteria and teaching notes. Contributed by Colleen Craggs, Hartlepool Adult Education Service colleen.craggs@ntlworld.com 12 pages. 70K. Contextualised resources - Care

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Functional English task sheets for Social Care provides contextualised help with the underpinning skills necessary to achieve Functional English (FE) at E3-L1. Includes reading comprehension, spelling, punctuation, fact and opinion, and sentence structure. With full details of relevant FE criteria and teaching notes. Contributed by Colleen Craggs, Hartlepool Adult Education Service colleen.craggs@ntlworld.com 10 pages. 60K. Contextualised resources - Care

Miscellaneous general E3 literacy resources (inc. seasonal / topical)

PDF

England's World Cup is a great set of mixed Entry exercises where learners are encouraged to use a range of positive (and negative!) adjectives to describe their favourite  players. Plus: write to Capello (writing frame included!), reading and discussion, rearrange sentences, use conjunctions, and research previous World Cups. Contributed by Matthew Brooke, Parenta E2E.  Topical resources

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World Cup literacy is a great set of topical tasks that include: research, proof reading, comprehension (including one on Wayne Rooney), scanning and world geography. 7 pages. 130K. Contributed by Maudine Morris, maudine.morris@boltoncc.ac.uk Bolton College. Also filed under Topical resources

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World Cup reading, proof reading and alphabetical order sis an unusual exercise where the learner must first read an information text and then check a piece of work - not only for spelling and punctuation errors but also for factual accuracy. Aimed at E2-E3 although some parts are suitable for L1. 6 pages. Contributed by Janice Gravestock, Springboard Centre, Doncaster janice.gravestock@yahoo.com Also filed under Topical resources

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E3 Easter literacy assignment is a lovely topical set of reading and writing tasks covering comprehension, alphabetical order and dictionary work, form filling and letter planning/writing. Makes a great end of term activity. Contributed by Carrie Bray, Northampton College. 5 pages. 40K.

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Xmas literacy quizzes two quick quizzes (one is a simplified version) that are ideal for mixed ability classes. The emphasis is on grammar, punctuation and spelling, and the questions cover everything from syllables to apostrophes. From Susan Douglas-Davis susandoug7@hotmail.com Adult Community Learning, Basildon. 4 pages. 110K. Also filed under topical resources

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Swine flu literacy comprehension ideas! 1 page of quick suggestions based on Government leaflet released yesterday. 90K. E2-L1

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E3-L2 Literacy glossary is a straightforward 1 page glossary which describes terms such as: verb, adjective, suffix, tense, prefix, vowel, etc. Also makes a good card match game or fill in exercise (see p.2). Contributed by Christine Casserly. 2 pages. 40K

ZIP

Sentence level literacy is a huge and very informative PPT that could easily be split into several smaller presentations. Covers parts of speech (nouns, verbs, pronouns, etc.), conjunctions, compound & complex sentences, active - passive, tense, ideas for creative writing and more! Contributed by Julie Hobson, Northern Learning Trust. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 26 slides. 16K.

25/08 Smart notebook files - please note you must have the Smart notebook software installed on your computer in order to open, view and use these resources. A free 30 day trial version (v10) of the complete software (along with masses of example files) is available from http://smarttech.com/ (this is what I used to open and review these resources). Earlier, fully working, non-time-limited versions also appear to be available from Smart Technologies so you may want to contact their support service for advice on a suitable download.

notebook

 

DOC

Titanic smartboard resources for Entry 1-Entry. Covers discussion, reading comprehension, phonics and  writing composition. Great lesson plan and resources on this popular topic. Includes interactive cloze exercises, phonics/syllable exercise, 'See, hear feel' brainstorm, photographs, lesson plan/objectives, and more. Contributed by Sian Waterman sianwaterman@hmps.gsi.gov.uk Thank you Sian. 12 smartboard screens. 2MB. Will be filed under General Entry 3 literacy, General Entry 2 literacy and General Entry 1 literacy.

Accompanying Word file includes an illustrated writing frame and differentiated word cards for word and sentence level work.

Please see note above regarding software requirements. An additional Word file is also provided with extra resources

notebook

 

DOC

Aron Ralston smartboard resources for Entry 1-Entry. Fabulous lesson plan and resources on the fascinating story of an American rock climber who sawed off his arm with a penknife in order to free himself from a rock fall and get some help. Includes interactive cloze exercises, photographs, lesson plan/objectives, syllable match, word sort and more. Contributed by Sian Waterman sianwaterman@hmps.gsi.gov.uk Thank you Sian. 9 smartboard screens. 2MB. Will be filed under General Entry 3 literacy, General Entry 2 literacy and General Entry 1 literacy.

Accompanying Word file includes an illustrated writing frame and differentiated word cards for word and sentence level work.

Please see note above regarding software requirements. An additional Word file is also provided with extra resources

Exams, practice papers, assessment, revision and exam tips

PDF

E2-E3 Start of term diagnostic exercises (or use simply to get learners into the swing of things!) cover reading comprehension, sentence structure and punctuation, writing and spelling. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 4 pages. 100K

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Christmas formative assessment for E3 is a topical way to assess how your students have progressed during the autumn term. This great series of tasks is based on the Royal Mail delivery services at Christmas and includes reading comprehension, writing, form filling and a speaking/listening/discussion task. From the staff at South Thames College, School of Skills for Life. Thank you all. 35K. 6 pages. Will be filed under General E3 Literacy

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A Trip to the Library Entry 3 assignment provides excellent practice for City and Guilds assignment. Layout and questions are in exactly the same style as the 'real thing' - complete with assessment pack and a transcript for the listening tape. Contributed by Pam James pamjeanjames@yahoo.co.uk Bury Adult Education Service. 16 pages. 90K. Covers reading, writing, speaking and listening and will be filed under General E3 Literacy resources.

Resources covering multiple skills and/or levels, projects, web research

PDF

Police web quest is a wonderful way of embedding literacy in Public Service (PS) lessons - allowing students to find out more about careers (inc support staff) in the Police Force. Written for Entry level PS students but could also be used in Work Skills and law & order/ justice sessions. Includes reading, writing, vocabulary, gap fill, word search and much more. Contributed by Sara Bishop, Deeside College sara.bishop1@btinternet.com  12 pages, 300K also filed under contextual resources (public services).

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09-10 Football Season is a wonderful way to engage mixed ability groups of footie fans! Contributed by Matt Barnes mydoggenius@yahoo.co.uk Thank you Matt. Covers formulating an argument, discussion, recognising points of view - facts & opinions, writing sentences & paragraph, averages, ratios, and  addition & subtraction. 5 pages. 35K. Also filed under contextualised resources - sport

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Day at the Zoo is a web research  project that covers money and general reading/research/writing skills. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 2 pages. 70K. Also filed under contextualised resources - childcare

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Problem Page is a great way to encourage paired reading, writing and discussion skills. Students discuss a typical problem from a tabloid newspaper page and then, in pairs, work on different problems and how they would solve them. For Entry 3, L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 12 pages. 60K

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Live the lotto dream is a fabulous project that covers many E3/L1 literacy and numeracy elements. You win the lottery, buy a flat and have to furnish it from the Argos catalogue! Learn about budgeting, working with areas and floor plans, bank statements, rounding, estimating, and much more. Everything must be written up as a comprehensive report with a clear conclusion (a great guidance page on report writing is included in the resource). Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk  Duchy College, Cornwall. 8 pages. 300K.

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Personal Travel Planner & Planning a Holiday are two great activities (one long and detailed - suitable for 2-3 sessions; one shorter and quicker, for a single session) ideal for E3-L1 literacy and ESOL students of all ages. Contributed by Lynn Bradshaw, Redbridge College LBradshaw@redbridge-college.ac.uk 4 pages. 50K.

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Love Heart Literacy assignment covers alphabetical ordering, adjectives, reading comprehension, sentences and web research for E2-L2. 7 pages. 65K

Schemes of work, lesson plans (with resources) and curriculum documents

PDF

Looking at Newspapers is a wonderful example of creative differentiated teaching across all levels (E1-L2). A detailed lesson descriptions, resources and introductory PPT are included. The lesson uses Kipling's "What and Why and When, And How and Where and Who" to help students analyse newspaper reports and interview other students, or their teacher, to create their own reports. Contributed by Ellie Walsh, Devon Adult and Community Learning, elanor.walsh@devon.gov.uk 4 page PDF, 60K and 7 screen zipped PPT file, 20K.

ZIP

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26 week Literacy Scheme of Work for E3-L2. An extremely useful and well thought out plan, originally used with New Deal learners and based around the free DfES Skills for Life learning materials. Contributed by Jan Long, janlong@tiscali.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.

XLS

Spreadsheet covering the entire adult literacy curriculum (E1 to Level 2): one sheet for each of the 12 areas such as: speak to communicate, reading - sentence level, writing - word level, etc. Contributed by Di Jenkins, jenkd006@medway.org.uk Bradfields School FE Unit, Gillingham, Kent. Adult literacy curriculum - all elements, all levels from E1-L2. 60K

XLS Excel progress charts showing all the curriculum indicators for Entry 3 Literacy. Provides, on one page, a quick, visual record of progress and achievement and is particularly useful in forming and updating individual learning plans. They can be kept in students' basic skills folders and used to set targets and track progress. For more information on the complete series of these files PLEASE ALSO DOWNLOAD this PDF overview file. Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk basic skills tutor at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Cornwall. Level 2 Literacy. 1 sheet. 20K

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Monitoring sheets for OCR Entry Level Certificates in Literacy - keep track of what your students have completed. Three sets in one document: E1 (2 pages), E2 Lit (3 pages), E3 Lit (4 pages). Di Jenkins, jenkd006@medway.org.uk Bradfields School FE Unit, Gillingham, Kent. 9 pages. 75K.

XLS

 Excel long term plan for E3 literacy Covers 12 terms for students working towards OCR Entry level 3 certificate in adult  literacy (including spoken communication) and is mapped to the Skills for Life learner materials (available free from the Read Write Plus site). Also usefully linked to the DfES online version of the adult literacy curriculum: clicking on any curriculum element takes you to full details. OCR monitoring sheets and spreadsheet covering the entire adult literacy curriculum (E1 to L2): one sheet for each of the 12 areas such as: speak to communicate, reading - sentence level, writing - word level, etc. Di Jenkins, jenkd006@medway.org.uk Bradfields School FE Unit, Gillingham, Kent. 45K

DOC

 Cross-referencing file for the City & Guilds entry level 3 literacy specifications. Maps the specifications to the respective Core Curricula elements with example and sample activities. Focuses tutors' activities onto the areas that students need to cover for progression.  For general information on these files PLEASE ALSO DOWNLOAD this PDF overview file. Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk  basic skills tutor at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Cornwall. 16 pages. 160K


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ENTRY 3 SPEAKING AND LISTENING

Entry 3 - General speaking and Listening Resources (i.e. those that cover three or more E3 Speaking, listening and/or discussion elements)

PDF

People bingo v2 makes a great ice-breaker or warm-up activity. Students must circulate and question other class members in order to complete the bingo grid. Also makes a good lead in to sentence work. This version contributed by Marion Crocker, Abingdon and Witney College, marion.crocker@abingdon-witney.ac.uk who adapted it from the original resource from Heidi Griffin (below). This new version is differentiated for a slightly higher level learner group and includes sentences to be completed by the learner. 25K. 1 page. Covers many speaking & listening elements (asking & answering questions, giving personal information, etc.).

PDF

People bingo makes a great Entry Level ice-breaker or warm-up activity. Students must circulate and question other class members in order to complete the bingo grid. also makes a great lead in to sentence work. Covers many speaking & listening elements (asking & answering questions, giving personal information, etc.). Contributed by Heidi Griffin, Bournemouth Adult Learning. 1 page. 25K

ZIP

CV and Telephone Skills is a super presentation full of useful tips for writing your CV, answering the telephone, taking messages, etc. Contributed by Steve Mangan. Use in conjunction with Steve's CV templates. Also filed under Contextualised resources (Employment skills). 11 slides. 40K zipped PPT file.

PDF

Exotic Fruits adjectives is a super, complete E2-E3 lesson plan (and resources) originally written for e2e students looking at healthy eating, but great for any group.  Includes detailed plan, quiz answer sheet, illustrated fill-in tables and adjective ideas. You will need a selection of exotic fruit and also, if following the entire lesson plan, the Food descriptions resource (below). Contributed by Gill Gibbons ggibbons@valeroyal.gov.uk 6 pages. 160K

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30 Words of the week and related speaking activity - lots of ideas here for themed Word level starters. Give your lessons a longitudinal structure and improve students' dictionary, speaking, spelling and vocabulary skills in small steps across the academic year. Originally used in a series of 30 lessons in a mixed ability classes (E3-L2) With suggestions for further resources and shared texts, related words, revision, spelling tips, and end of term /plenary speaking activities and more. 10 pages. 400K.

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Religious and cultural festivals - active listening game: step by step instructions for an excellent paired activity which also provides useful practice for formal speaking and listening assessments. Contributed by Helen Baldwin hlb@wsfc.ac.uk Worcester Sixth Form College. Ideal for Literacy and ESOL classes (Entry 3 upwards). 2 pages. 16K


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Speaking and Listening –  Entry Level 3 (Listen and Respond)

Entry 3 - General Listen and Respond resources (i.e. those that cover two or more E3 Listen & Respond elements)

ZIP

OCR E3 listening task  (removing a pane of glass) is a clever way of practising OCR E3 Task 1 (listening for gist, detail and new information) and could also be easily edited to add your own listening materials. Contributed by Moira Garland m.garland@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 14K zipped PowerPoint. 3 slides. (Please read the notes area of slide 1 for teaching instructions). Will also be filed (because of the DIY theme) under Construction on contextualised resources page.

PDF

Moral Dilemmas is a great game aimed at 16-18 year olds (easily adapted for other age groups) that provides focus points for group discussion along with reading, writing and listening practice. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 20K.
PDF Card game - listening to and following instructions is a great paired game for improving listening , speaking and reading skills.  Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com 60K. 4 pages.
PDF Sweets game - listening to and following instructions is a great paired game for improving listening , speaking and reading skills - plus you get to eat the sweets at the end!  Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com 100K. 4 pages.
Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening for further resources.

SLlr/E3.1 Listen for and follow the gist of explanations, instructions and narratives in different contexts

(a) know how to listen for gist, making use of own knowledge, context clues, linking words and sequence markers

(b) understand that listening on the phone can be more demanding than face-to-face listening (usually less knowledge of the context, no visual clues, so more reliance on hearing)

  • Listen for the gist in different contexts, e.g. in a large group at a talk to parents about a school trip, at a union meeting, or in a factual programme on TV or radio.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLlr/E3.2 Listen for detail in explanations, instructions and narratives in different contexts

(a) use key words to clue into a particular topic

(b) focus listening in relation to purpose

(c) understand the differences between listening for detail in real time on the telephone, and listening to recorded messages which can be replayed

  • Follow up on the telephone why an expected delivery did not arrive; listen to a message on a telephone answering machine and pass on details to another person

PDF

Animal Descriptions a speaking and listening card game / warm-up activity for Entry 2-3 Literacy. Linked to Entry level descriptive writing and work on adjectives. With differentiation ideas for pre-Entry and Levels 1-2. Should be printed in colour and laminated. 5 pages.

PDF Food descriptions is a speaking and listening card game / warm-up activity for Entry 2-3 Literacy. An ideal link to Entry level descriptive writing and work on adjectives. With differentiation ideas for preEntry and Levels 1-2. Should be printed in colour and laminated. 130K. 5 pages.

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Produce a non fiction text is a great series of reading, writing and listening resources that includes: difference between fiction and non fiction, sorting out facts and opinions (with 3 related activities), researching the web to extract facts (with fill in sheets) and turn these into statements to be used in guessing game. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 9 pages. 80K.
Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLlr/E3.3 Listen for and identify relevant information and new information from discussions, explanations and presentations

(a) understand that judging the relevance of information will depend on the context and purpose of the listening

(b) understand the need to register new information in order to decide if it's relevant or not

(c) understand that significant points are often emphasised, repeated or summarised at the end of a presentation or explanation

  • Listen to a complaint from a customer at work (face-to-face or on the telephone) and decide who should deal with it.
  • Listen to a rush hour travel bulletin on radio and act upon information.
  • Follow instructions from a voice satellite navigation system.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLlr/E3.4 Use strategies to clarify and confirm understanding (e.g. facial expressions or gestures)

(a) understand that a listener can signal response to a speaker using visual or verbal signals depending on context

(b) know and use some feedback signals to check understanding when listening face to face

  • Follow a demonstration of some equipment (e.g. in a shop or at work), signalling understanding and querying by confirming statements, questions and non-verbal signs.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLlr/E3.5 Listen to and respond appropriately to other points of view - see also General E3 Speaking & Listening resources and General E3 Listen and Respond resources (above)

(a) understand the tendency for people to listen less carefully to points of view different from their own
(b) know some strategies for paying attention to other points of view and for responding appropriately even when disagreeing with the viewpoint

(c) modify response depending on relationship with other speakers new sub-element

  • Listen to opposing viewpoints in a meeting and make a contribution using the appropriate meeting conventions, e.g. in a tenants' association meeting, a union meeting, or in a discussion in the classroom about a topical subject such as global warming.
  • Make choices about use of slang, idioms or defamatory language as appropriate.

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Give me  some advice is a great way to encourage students to provide non threatening advice, whilst improving their writing and listening-speaking skills. For Entry 3. L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLlr/E3.6 Respond to a range of questions about familiar topics

(a) understand that questions can come in different forms, which affect the kind of response required

(b) understand that the sorts of question will vary depending on the context and the situation

  • Respond to questions about their own experiences, e.g. from a person to whom the learner has just been introduced, an interviewer's questions at a job interview, a teacher's questions about a group visit, or a union representative's questions about how new health and safety procedures are going
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Listen & Respond for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

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Speaking and Listening –  Entry Level 3 (Speak to Communicate)

Entry 3 - General Speak to Communicate resources (i.e. those that cover two or more E3 Speak to Communicate elements)

PDF

Describing people provides individual and paired work using adjectives in written and spoken descriptions (appearance and personality). Contributed by Laura Jeffrey Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk Thank you Laura. 2 pages. 15K.

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Speaking about Health is a great board game that can be used to encourage speaking skills at many levels (ESOl or Literacy). With teaching ideas and curriculum links. Contributed by  Lyn Hunter, Walford & North Shropshire College, Oswestry hunter@springcurl.freeserve.co.uk 2 pages 130K.

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Animal Descriptions a speaking and listening card game / warm-up activity for Entry 2-3 Literacy. Linked to Entry level descriptive writing and work on adjectives. With differentiation ideas for pre-Entry and Levels 1-2. Should be printed in colour and laminated. 5 pages.

PDF Food descriptions is a speaking and listening card game / warm-up activity for Entry 2-3 Literacy. An ideal link to Entry level descriptive writing and work on adjectives. With differentiation ideas for preEntry and Levels 1-2. Should be printed in colour and laminated. 130K. 5 pages.
Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening for further resources.

SLc/E3.1 Speak clearly to be heard and understood using appropriate clarity, speed and phrasing

(a) understand that pace of delivery affects clarity of speech and how easily the listener can hear and follow (e.g. speaking too quickly or with too much hesitation)

(b) understand that appropriate speed and phrasing will depend to some extent on the context this sub-element changed

(c) be able to speak clearly and appropriately over short periods

  • Make a contribution to an informal meeting which is clear, audible and appropriately paced, e.g. introduce a new member of staff to work colleagues, including details of their job role; leave an answer machine message including their own contact details; contribute at a team meeting.

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Give me  some advice is a great way to encourage students to provide non threatening advice, whilst improving their writing and listening-speaking skills. For Entry 3. L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Speak to Communicate for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLc/E3.2 Use formal language and register when appropriate

(a) understand that spoken language has different registers, depending on the formality of the situation and the relationship between the speakers

(b) be able to shift registers for different familiar contexts and situations

  • Formally welcome an outside visitor at a meeting or event.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Speak to Communicate for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLc/E3.3 Express clearly statements of fact and give short explanations, accounts and descriptions

(a) use knowledge of context and situation to judge the level of detail required

(b) understand that sticking to the point is usually a factor in successful short explanations, accounts and descriptions

(c) understand that, as well as facts, opinions and feelings may form part of explanations, accounts, descriptions, depending on context and situation

  • Give an explanation clearly and at the right level of detail, e.g. to a new colleague on how and where to find information about team meetings, or to new learners on how to arrange appointments with the teacher.

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Dating Agency is an amusing yet effective way to practise speaking skills - particularly giving descriptions and explanations. Plus ideas for related writing work and suggested variations for those for whom a dating agency scenario is not appropriate. Contributed by Saul Pope, Amersham and Wycombe College. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk  2 pages. 30K

Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Speak to Communicate for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLc/E3.4 Make requests and ask questions to obtain information in familiar and unfamiliar contexts

(a) know how to make requests and ask questions clearly and simply so the listener understands what information is required

(b) know some strategies  for clarifying and confirming understanding, especially when speaking over the telephone

(c) know and use suitable politeness conventions, and formal language and register where appropriate

  • Make a telephone enquiry and obtain the information required, e.g. the screening time of a film, the availability and cost of tickets for an event, or the cost of a service.
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The Caller is an unusual  and very useful exercise written for ‘preparation for work’ students who were nervous of taking messages and writing down information.  It also provides useful reading and comprehension practice for all Entry Level learners – and will prompt discussion on the importance of asking the right questions and writing down messages. Ideal for Entry Level work skills students and for underpinning Entry 2 Functional English (see highlighted criteria in the table below). Contributed by Pauline O’Connor, volunteer adult literacy tutor. 4 pages. 50K. Employment skills

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Questioning for understanding is a really useful help sheet that encourages learners to ask relevant questions (any topic, any level). Based on Kipling's "What and Why and When, And How and Where and Who" with teaching ideas and useful links. Contributed by Jeff Moran, MindSounds jeff@mindsounds.com  2 pages, 50K also filed under general study techniques

Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Speak to Communicate for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

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Speaking and Listening –  Entry Level 3 (Engage in Discussion)

Entry 3 - General Engage in Discussion resources (i.e. those that cover two or more E3 Engage in Discussion elements)

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Cartoon concepts - colds and flu is a great speaking and listening tool which involves discussing and sorting out myths and facts. The great thing about this concept (originally used in Junior science lessons) is the way it can be easily adapted for any topic and any group. Contributed by Yvonne Long, YES (Youth Education Service) Bristol, yvonnelong@btinternet.com 3 pages. 60K

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Planning a Fireworks Display has useful prompts for general discussion work (small groups) and its budgeting slant also makes it suitable for numeracy classes. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 2 pages. 17K.

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Conversation skills encourages learners to think (and mind-map / thought-web) about skills required for a good conversation and then test them out and evaluate after a 5 minute conversation with a partner. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk

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Moral Dilemmas is a great game aimed at 16-18 year olds (easily adapted for other age groups) that provides focus points for group discussion along with reading, writing and listening practice. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 20K.

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What's in your wallet?  Written for learners on the autistic spectrum (who often find it particularly difficult to infer meaning that is not explicitly stated) but suitable for many literacy and/or numeracy students. General financial numeracy theme on budgeting, expenditure, saving etc - accompanied by two way discussion, making sense of monetary idioms and clichιs (e.g. 'making both ends meet'), and writing complete sentences. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome. anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 90K.

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Problem Page is a great way to encourage paired reading, writing and discussion skills. Students discuss a typical problem from a tabloid newspaper page and then, in pairs, work on different problems and how they would solve them. For Entry 3, L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 12 pages. 60K

Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening for further resources.

SLd/E3.1 follow and understand the main points of discussions on different topics

(a) understand that discussion can serve different purposes, e.g. to share views, plan a task, solve a problem, clear the air
(b) understand that discussion does not always follow a linear sequence
(c) be able to listen with some concentration to grasp the main points
  • Follow a news interview on radio, TV or the internet, and be able to form a view on the issue.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Engage in Discussion for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLd/E3.2 make contributions to discussions that are relevant to the subject

(a) make contributions at the appropriate time i.e. following on from the previous point, not from several points back

(b) know and use phrases that help relate their own contributions to others' in discussions with more than one person

  • Make useful contributions to a planning meeting for a community event, e.g. a fundraising activity or celebration.
  • Make contributions to a class discussion about a group trip, or how and what the group would like to study in a specific part of the course timetable, or make contributions to a workplace discussion about a health and safety issue.
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St George's Day discussion uses a news report to prompt discussion about St George's Day and whether it should be a national holiday. Written for E2-E3 but could also be used at higher levels. Contributed by Trish Bradwell, Colchester Institute, tricia.bradwell@colchester.ac.uk 1 page. 35K

Please also see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Engage in Discussion for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

SLd/E3.3 respect the turn-taking rights of others during discussions

(a) understand that productive discussion involves people speaking one at a time

(b) understand that people can use eye contact and gestures to help signal that they would like to speak next

  • Take part in a discussion, making some relevant contributions but not talking over others, e.g. plan a group research project with fellow learners, or evaluate the success of a family literacy course with other participants.
Please see General E3 Speaking and Listening and General E3 Engage in Discussion for resources that cover this (and other) elements.

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ENTRY 3 READING

Entry 3 - General Reading resources that cover many curriculum links

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Quick Read resources is a varied set of tasks based on two popular Quick Read titles: Chickenfeed by Minette Walters and Murder in Catcher's Wood by Paul Horsman (in the Sun Book of Short Stories).  Includes comprehension questions, paragraphing, punctuation and writing ideas. Wonderful for encouraging reading of fiction. Contributed by Ruth Read ruth.read@slowdog.vispa.com WEA(Workers’ Educational Association) East Midlands. 4 pages. 40K

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Charlie's Horse is a humorous E2-3 story accompanied by E3-L1 comprehension, grammar, spelling and vocabulary questions (making it ideal for mixed ability classes). Contributed by Marion Martin, ESOL and SEN community based support teacher, Australia. 3 pages, 40K. 

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Laugh and Learn is a funny vet story accompanied by an excellent explanation of the puns used in the text and vocabulary/comprehension questions. Contributed by Marion Martin, ESOL and SEN community based support teacher, Australia. 3 pages, 110K

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London is a substantial 3 page text about capital city's landmarks and tourist attractions. Ideal for students living in or visiting London. Followed by 6 pages of activities including questions, true/false, wordsearch, dictionary and alphabetical order work. Contributed by Jacqueline Buchanan, Eclectic Productions jacqueline.buchanan@googlemail.com 9 pages. 220K

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Obama is President is a topical Entry 3 BBC news text (which has an accompanying video) with comprehension questions and dictionary work. Contributed by Liz Hodges 3 pages. 20K

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Do you have a favourite...? is a set of 3 web research task sheets. Choose between rugby team, football team or favourite singer / group. Provides practice in web research, skimming, scanning & reading comprehension. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan & Leigh College. 3 pages. 90K Also filed under  ICT.

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Holiday brochure appetiser makes a great warm-up activity. Students work in pairs to find information in holiday brochures. Easily adapted for your own brochures. Covers scanning, organisational features, detailed reading, etc at E3-L2. Contributed by Heidi Griffin, Bournemouth Adult Learning. 3 pages. 160K.

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Cowes Week is an illustrated text accompanied by a wonderful set of varied Entry 3 - Level 1 questions. These cover so many reading elements (also spelling) that the resource could almost be used as a diagnostic assessment tool. Includes comprehension, prefixes/suffixes, compound words, dictionary and vocabulary work, sentences and punctuation. Contributed by Jeanette Edwards, Skills for Life lecturer at HMP Camp Hill Jeanette.Edwards@hmps.gsi.gov.uk 5 pages. 80K

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Love Heart Literacy is a substantial hands-on assignment - covers alphabetical ordering, adjectives, reading comprehension, sentences & web research for E2-L2. 7 pages. 65K

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Wheelbarrow Boy - Entry 3 comprehension is a wonderful short story specifically written for a school PEP group (post 16, entry level programme) and designed to be fun and interesting (especially for boys) and short enough to be completed in a one hour session (although the extension dictionary/sentence exercises could go on longer). With 10 questions and extension activities. Contributed by Gerry Farrell, PEP group tutor, Cheam High School. 5 pages. 30K

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Monster are Real - Entry 3 comprehension is an exciting short story specifically written for a school PEP group (post 16, entry level programme) and designed to be fun and interesting (especially for boys) and short enough to be completed in a one hour session (although the extension dictionary/sentence exercises could go on longer). With 9 questions and extension dictionary and sentence activities. Contributed by Gerry Farrell, PEP group tutor, Cheam High School. 5 pages. 30K

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Every Thursday the Rain Comes - Entry 3 comprehension is an intriguing short story specifically written for a school PEP group (post 16, entry level programme) and designed to be fun and interesting (especially for boys) and short enough to be completed in a one hour session. With 13 questions. Contributed by Gerry Farrell, PEP group tutor, Cheam High School. 4 pages. 25K

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The Birthday Present - Entry 3 comprehension is an amusing short story specifically written for a school PEP group (post 16, entry level programme) and designed to be fun and interesting (especially for boys) and short enough to be completed in a one hour session (although the extension dictionary/sentence exercises could go on longer). With 10 questions and extension dictionary and sentence activities. Contributed by Gerry Farrell, PEP group tutor, Cheam High School. 4 pages. 25K

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Chomwell Green OHT - in Word format for shared group writing. Originally used for a class writing project (using adjectives) in Jan 2002. We have updated the font and the cost of the house! 
PDF Shared text Estate Agents Ads and Holiday cottages: a shared text for group work. Two houses for sale and a garage (all based on real descriptions from local Estate Agents). Plus a detailed description of a holiday cottage. Use for: studying fact - opinion, adjectives, descriptive - persuasive language, preparation for  group or individual writing projects. Originally used  as preparation for a class writing project (using adjectives) in Jan 2002. This text is best printed or enlarge to A3 - give each student a copy and encourage annotation, underlining, highlighting etc. 1 page. 84K.

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Happy Holidays is a 14 screen presentation that was used and created during a series of 8 x 2 hour lessons. DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE - and please read the notes underneath each slide! Start by looking at postcards. Then learn about compound words and write a group postcard (followed by individual ones). Move on to look at adjectives and the persuasive language of holiday advertisements (inc. working out unfamiliar vocabulary) and finish by writing your own hotel adverts. Please also download the related PDF file (below) which includes writing frames, planners and posters. Zipped PPT 600K.

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Happy Holidays extra resources is to accompany the Happy Holidays PowerPoint (above and includes 'footsteps to good writing', classroom poster or handout, planner, adjective wheel worksheet, 2 shared texts, and 3 writing frames along with plenty of teaching ideas and curriculum links. Again, DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE. 15 pages 200K.

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Produce a non fiction text is a great series of reading, writing and listening resources that includes: difference between fiction and non fiction, sorting out facts and opinions (with 3 related activities), researching the web to extract facts (with fill in sheets) and turn these into statements to be used in guessing game. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 9 pages. 80K.
PDF Shared text (house ads, holiday cottages. 84K) to use with House for Sale: Group writing project. Using descriptive, persuasive language. OT (with links). (a)

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Reading – Entry Level 3 – Text Focus (Reading Comprehension)

Rt/E3.1 Trace and understand the main events of chronological, continuous descriptive and explanatory texts of more than one paragraph

(a) understand that meaning is built up through a text

(b) understand the significance of the openings and endings of texts to overall meaning

(c) understand that own knowledge (personal, contextual, phonological, grammatical, graphical) can be used to work out, predict and check the meanings of texts.

  • Read and understand the main events in a continuous text encountered in their own life, e.g. a school news-sheet for parents, a charity leaflet, a letter, an explanation of procedures in the workplace, a health and safety notice, a short story or poem.
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Readwell Road, Step 3 stories A-C. Readwell Road is magnificent set of reading books for adults. This Step 3 set is made up of three Entry Level 2-3 texts and continues the stories of the people introduced in Step 1 (Entry 1) stories A-C and Step 2 (E1-E2) stories A-C. Ron and Pam's Post Office is saved; the continuing saga of Peg at the pub and her man Sam; and poor old Jim, who lives in the bungalow at No. 1, finally gets some help in his garden.  Please also download the separate overview document. Further titles will be appearing soon. Contributed by Linda Hoole, Havant, Hampshire linda.hoole@ntlworld.com 9 pages. 80K.

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The Caller is an unusual  and very useful exercise written for ‘preparation for work’ students who were nervous of taking messages and writing down information.  It also provides useful reading and comprehension practice for all Entry Level learners – and will prompt discussion on the importance of asking the right questions and writing down messages. Ideal for Entry Level work skills students and for underpinning Entry 2 Functional English (see highlighted criteria in the table below). Contributed by Pauline O’Connor, volunteer adult literacy tutor. 4 pages. 50K. Employment skills

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East is East review is a comprehension and writing task sheet for E3-L1. If learners also watch the East is East DVD it also provides lots of opportunity to discuss issues of race and culture. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd. 3 pages. 30K

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Frank (Bullitt) is a simplified text based on the classic film Bullitt. Ideal for group or individual reading. Accompanied by a paragraph sequencing activity and comprehension questions. Great for film buffs of all ages! Contributed by Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service laurencebrc@yahoo.com 5 pages. 70K

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Autumn Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 2 pages. 20K. Note: you will also need the autumn festivals text from Autumn Apple Cake by Judith White.

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Health and Safety is a fabulous set of differentiated reading activities for E1-E3. Order sentences to make a gruesome story, read and answer questions on manual handling (inc. graphical information), enjoy an amusing story about a Health and Safety inspector or a topical news report. Contributed by Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service laurencebrc@yahoo.com 7 pages. 260K.

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Dr Who reading practice is a topical comprehension activity with two sets of differentiated questions (also includes alphabetical ordering) for E3-L1 and L2. Makes a great practice / revision activity before L1-2 exams. Based on a recent story on the BBC web site. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 5 pages, 40K

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Caught in the Act! is a hilarious cloze / comprehension exercise based on a real letter to a newspaper. Great for E3 reading, prediction and word order work. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 1 page. 30K

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Spring Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about spring festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. Thank you Andrea. 12K. Note: you will also need the spring festivals text from Easter Eggs - value for money? by Judith White.

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Myths and legends is a set of three worksheets designed to encourage students to explore the language used in three English legends (Matilda's Bracelet, The Abandoned Children of Wailing Wood, The Ghost Hound of Lyme Regis). Stories can all be listened to on the wonderful http://myths.e2bn.org/mythsandlegends/ (printable versions are also available). Questions also cover general comprehension and dictionary work. Contributed by John England, j.england@staff.covcollege.ac.uk City College, Coventry. 3 pages (each with approx. 20 questions). 20K

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Fire Escape involves reading, re-ordering and looking at the layout and features of important health and safety instructions (how to escape from an upstairs room of a burning building). Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 2 pages. 30K

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The Bill - Dale Smith and the Gangs is a short article about a recent storyline in this popular soap. Followed by 10 comprehension questions. Contributed From Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service. laurencebrc@yahoo.com 2 pages. 300K

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Inheritance is another wonderful, illustrated story from Tracy Richardson, Level 2 Literacy learner at Henley College, Coventry. The story is arranged in 13 chapters and is followed by comprehension questions, vocabulary and dictionary work, and a word search. Contact Tracy through Robert Holt, Rholt@henley-cov.ac.uk, who suggests using this story with Entry 3 -Level 2 learners for reading comprehension work. 21 pages (story 14 pages, worksheets 6, answers 1) 350K.

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Munich Air Disaster is a simplified news report from Feb 6th 1958 with comprehension questions. Contributed From Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service. laurencebrc@yahoo.com 2 pages. 40K

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Be my Valentine is a brilliant resource - especially for younger, teenage students. Includes an original poem, discussion of slang, background info on Valentines Day, writing and speaking ideas. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 4 pages. 150K.

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Cavity wall construction. Cloze exercises. A great way of improving reading and grammar skills alongside vocational knowledge. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 25K. 2 pages. See also contextualised resources

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Bricklaying in hot and cold weather. Two cloze exercises. A great way of improving reading and grammar skills alongside vocational knowledge. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 30K. 2 pages. See also contextualised resources

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Dream - Writing an Acrostic Poem is a fabulous interactive PPT originally written for National Poetry Day 2007 (but ideal at any time!). Each page (many with type-in boxes) provides a separate task - ideal for groups or pairs. Provides a complete lesson through from initial discussion to presentation, feedback and reflection. From Moira Garland and Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk m.garland@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Zipped PPT. 14 screens. 160K. Rt/E3.1 Rt/L1.1 Rt/L2.1

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Tigger the Hunter is a wonderful, illustrated story written by Tracy Richardson, Level 1 Literacy learner at Henley College, Coventry. Contact through Robert Holt, Rholt@henley-cov.ac.uk, who suggests using this story with Entry 2 -3 learners for reading comprehension / reading in detail, recognising high frequency words, adjectives, phonics & decoding (especially consonant clusters). 6 double pages. 240K

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Problem Page is a great way to encourage paired reading, writing and discussion skills. Students discuss a typical problem from a tabloid newspaper page and then, in pairs, work on different problems and how they would solve them. For Entry 3, L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 12 pages. 60K

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Following instructions - BBC Skillwise provides step by step help to ICT/Lit/Num students plus useful practice in reading instructions. Contributed by Paula Pye, Chelmer Training paulapye@chelmer-training.co.uk Note: free Word version available, allowing tutors to customise for their own students.

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Mouse exercises is a very useful sheet (best used on-screen) providing online links to a range of mouse exercises where learners can learn about right and left clicking, double clicking, drag and drop, etc. Activities range form straightforward tutorials to  'Dress the Eggplant', Join the Dots and a bubble game. Many also provide very useful practice on reading instructions. Contributed by Barbara Corcoran, bcorcoran@eastleigh.ac.uk  Eastleigh College.

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 Yesterday's World text (about an attraction in Sussex) and related phonics activities (based on the two sounds of the digraph /th/). Includes word sorting, cloze, crossword.  Originally written for a mixed level Literacy and ESOL group. Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 6 pages. 80K

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Pancake day literacy and numeracy activities. Two pancake texts to read, questions to answer, recipes to re-size (simple ratios) and instructions to match and order. Wonderful topical work for Entry 2 to Level 1. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 6 pages. 70K

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George Michael - a controversial interview is an ideal non-threatening way to introduce the topic of drugs, alongside reading and discussion practice. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 60K.
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Willy the super ant story from Margaret Adams Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk who wrote this story to help a dyslexic student distinguish between 'want' and 'what'.  Numbered 'cartoon' blanks for student to illustrate, plus introduction, story and background notes. 7 pages. 30K.

PDF Buyer Beware! Another resource in our popular. A shared text used during a series of lesson on descriptive writing. Text can be used for a multitude of activities but is particularly good for work on prefixes and suffixes, and punctuation. Best enlarged to A3 to allow for annotation and highlighting. Includes suggested exercises and teaching ideas. Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes Student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. 3 pages. 40K.

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Rt/E3.2 Recognise the different purposes of texts at this level

(a) understand that different texts have different purposes, e.g. to inform, explain, instruct, entertain, describe, persuade

(b) understand that texts of the same form can have different purposes, e.g. a letter

(c) understand that lexis varies according to register new sub-element

  • Select appropriate texts to suit their own purposes in daily life, e.g. newspaper, telephone directory, computer manual, tourist information leaflet, website.

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Fantasy job lesson plan is a step by step detailed plan based on Jane Harbord's popular Fantasy Job Project resource submitted in 2008.  Gets students looking at job adverts and discussing what is required by employers. Great for general literacy classes or employment skills groups.  Contributed by Philip Hinchcliffe, Working Links, Middlesbrough. 2 pages. 15K Also filed under Contextualised resources - employment.

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Fantasy job project is a great way to get student looking at job adverts and discussing what is required by employers. This scaffolded writing task lists points for students to consider  before planning A3 job adverts/posters. First used with New Deal students. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd. 2 pages. 30K Also filed under Contextualised resources - employment.

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Be my Valentine is a brilliant resource - especially for younger, teenage students. Includes an original poem, discussion of slang, background info on Valentines Day, writing and speaking ideas. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 4 pages. 150K.

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Fire instructions? For re-ordering, comprehension and looking at the layout and features of instructive texts. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood, Matthew Boulton College, akennedy-lockwood@matthew-boulton.ac.uk 2 pages. 27K.

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Types of text - What am I? Useful card game for consolidation and revision. Students must describe the features, layout and style of different texts. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood, Matthew Boulton College, akennedy-lockwood@matthew-boulton.ac.uk 2 pages. 16K.

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updated (first uploaded July 2006) Hired or Fired is a lesson plan for E3- L2 based loosely on 'The Apprentice' TV show. Timed differentiated plan covering purpose of text, writing a persuasive advertisement and planning a newspaper article using a graphic organiser (using Maureen Prowse's graphic organiser - see here). Includes plan, task sheet and images. Now with blank spaces to allow you to fill in the name of your own local shopping centre etc rather than use Mocha Parade in Salford. Contributed by Jodie Travis, Accrington and Rossendale College travisjodie@hotmail.com 130K. 5 pages.

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Types of text - student handout that explains the layout and language features of instructive and persuasive texts.  Use with the related drag and drop worksheet (below).  Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 3 pages (last page is the teacher's answer sheet for the drag and drop exercise). 30K.

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Types of text drag and drop interactive worksheet. Drag the features of instructive and persuasive texts to the correct area. Use with the related handout (above) which also includes an answer sheet. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 2 pages. 40K

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Purpose and audience task sheets provide a good ice breaker for mixed ability and family literacy groups and make for easy differentiation as learners choose their own texts to work with. Contributed by Emma Shaw. Medway Adult Education. emma.shaw@blueyonder.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Fact and opinion is a multi-sensory set of resources and a great follow up to our ever-popular Chomwell Green resources. Discuss and decide which statements are facts and which are opinions, then complete the worksheet sheet in pairs. Ideal for mixed ability groups. From Emma Shaw. Medway Adult Education. emma.shaw@blueyonder.co.uk  4 pages. 80K.

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Non fiction book review two versions (one is more detailed than the other) encouraging learners to look critically at non-fiction information books - looking out for features such as illustrations, headings, glossaries etc. and extracting interesting facts. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.
ZIP Types of Text: Social Signs fabulous introduction with lots of pictures and points for group discussion making this suitable for Milestone 8 - Entry 3. Contributed by Sally Shipton, Stafford College S.Shipton@staffordcoll.ac.uk 7 screens. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 180K.
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Different types of text (introduction) What is a text? Where do we find texts? A great presentation that really involves the audience. Contributed by Sally Shipton, Stafford College S.Shipton@staffordcoll.ac.uk 6 screens Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 32K

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Different types of text (part 1) What is the purpose of a text? Who are you writing for? What style will you use? How will you write it? What with? Another great presentation that builds upon Sally's introductory PPT (above). Contributed by Sally Shipton, Stafford College S.Shipton@staffordcoll.ac.uk 7 screens. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 44K

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Different types of text (part 2) The different purposes of text. Looks at information, instructions, entertainment, persuasion and more! Another great presentation that builds upon Sally's other three PPTs (above).  Contributed by Sally Shipton, Stafford College S.Shipton@staffordcoll.ac.uk 11 screens Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 125K

PDF Looking at letters - Take a detailed look at the purpose, intended audience and language of letters. Fill-in worksheet, teachers' notes, follow up ideas. Use as preparation for individual letter writing. 4 pages. 75K.

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Updated Descriptive Non Fiction Texts: tutor notes, curriculum links, student hand-out (L1/2) about objective v subjective (persuasive) descriptions, reading activity on fact and opinion (in Estate Agent ads) with fill-in sheet, lots of writing ideas. This resource makes a good companion to our House Ads OHT and shared text, and our group or individual writing projects and our Writing Frames 1. Originally used for a class writing project (using adjectives) in Jan 2002. E2-L2. 5 pages. 87K.

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Rt/E3.3 recognise and understand the organisational features and typical language of instructional texts, e.g. use of imperatives and second person

(a) understand the different ways of presenting instructions, e.g. lists, numbered points, bullets, diagrams with arrows

(b) know that the content of instructional texts may be laid out in different ways, not always left to right across the whole page

  • Use instructional texts to complete tasks in their own life, e.g. recipes, rules, instructions for the use of equipment or products, a route finder, directions, or buying an item online.

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Super cheese & tomato potatoes is a series of comprehension questions based on an Asda recipe from their shopping web site. It's also an ideal way of familiarising learners with instructional texts / web pages. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd. 1 page. 30K

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Fire instructions? For re-ordering, comprehension and looking at the layout and features of instructive texts. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood, Matthew Boulton College, akennedy-lockwood@matthew-boulton.ac.uk 2 pages. 27K.

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Types of text - What am I? Useful card game for consolidation and revision. Students must describe the features, layout and style of different texts. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood, Matthew Boulton College, akennedy-lockwood@matthew-boulton.ac.uk 2 pages. 16K.

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Pizza fingers is a handy recipe that can be used for numeracy (ratio work) or literacy (reading and ordering instructions). Contributed by Helen Connell, Joseph Priestley College, Leeds. 3 pages. 70K.

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Types of text - student handout that explains the layout and language features of instructive and persuasive texts.  Use with the related drag and drop worksheet (below).  Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 3 pages (last page is the teacher's answer sheet for the drag and drop exercise). 30K

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Types of text drag and drop interactive worksheet. Drag the features of instructive and persuasive texts to the correct area. Use with the related handout (above) which also includes an answer sheet. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 2 pages. 40K

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Severe bleeding drag and drop interactive worksheet provides great practice in reading and ordering instructions. Originally used in a Pathway to Nursing course. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 2 pages. 60K. Also listed in the contextualised resources section. Please also download teachers' notes (below).

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Chemical and thermal burns drag and drop interactive worksheet provides great practice in reading and ordering instructions. Originally used in a Pathway to Nursing course. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 2 pages. 60K. Also listed in the contextualised resources section. Please also download teachers' notes (below).

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Mouth to mouth resuscitation drag and drop interactive worksheet provides great practice in reading and ordering instructions. Originally used in a Pathway to Nursing course. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk  2 pages. 60K. Also listed in the contextualised resources section. Please also download teachers' notes (below).

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Teachers' notes and answer sheets for 3 drag and drop health - nursing interactive worksheets (above). Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk1 pages. 30K. Also listed in the contextualised resources section.

Rt/E3.4 identify the main points and ideas, and predict words from context

(a) understand that some parts of text may be more important for overall meaning than others

(b) know that the first sentence of a paragraph often introduces a new point or idea

(c) know that context and their own knowledge can help predict unfamiliar words

  • Get the gist of a text and know what to do with it, e.g. a flyer advertising a 'special offer', a hospital appointment letter, a SPAM email.

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Frank (Bullitt) is a simplified text based on the classic film Bullitt. Ideal for group or individual reading. Accompanied by a paragraph sequencing activity and comprehension questions. Great for film buffs of all ages! Contributed by Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service laurencebrc@yahoo.com 5 pages. 70K

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Health and Safety is a fabulous set of differentiated reading activities for E1-E3. Order sentences to make a gruesome story, read and answer questions on manual handling (inc. graphical information), enjoy an amusing story about a Health and Safety inspector or a topical news report. Contributed by Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service laurencebrc@yahoo.com 7 pages. 260K.

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Caught in the Act! is a hilarious cloze / comprehension exercise based on a real letter to a newspaper. Great for E3 reading, prediction and word order work. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 1 page. 30K


Rt/E3.5 understand and use organisational features to locate information (e.g. contents, index, menus)

(a) understand that organisational features occur in different places within a text

(b) understand the purpose of different organisational features and know that they work at different levels of detail, e.g. content, index, headings

  • Find a place on a street map by looking up the name in the index to locate the page and map reference.
  • Find an email message from a mail folder, select a link from an internet search engine or website.

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Hairdressing resources for E3-L1 is a great set of literacy and numeracy resources based on making appointments. Includes blank and filled appointment sheets, treatment price list (with accompanying questions) and a short writing activity. Ideal for working with money and time. Also involves scanning text. Contributed by Nicola Smith, Royal Forest of Dean College. 9 pages. 85K. Also filed under contextualised resources - hairdressing

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Wolverhampton supermarket location research. Great way to practise using alphabetical order (and maps) to locate information. Note - probably best for those that live in the Wolverhampton area and requires a local AtoZ map (but the idea could easily be adapted for any area). Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 4 pages. 30K

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Non fiction book review two versions (one is more detailed than the other) encouraging learners to look critically at non-fiction information books - looking out for features such as illustrations, headings, glossaries etc. and extracting interesting facts. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.
PDF The Commonwealth: great set of resources for E3/L1 literacy and ESOL. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 page. 20K.

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Rt/E3.6 skim read title. headings and illustrations to decide if material is of interest

(a) understand that many text are not meant to be read from end to end

(b) know that different features of a text provide clues to its contents and that illustrations contribute to meaning

  • Select a holiday brochure from a range of other brochures, choose a book from a display in a library or a bookshop, choose a newspaper or magazine from a stand, by looking at the headlines and illustrations on the front page.

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Dangers of working with cement: skimming, scanning and comprehension exercise. A great way of improving reading skills whilst learning important health and safety information. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 65K. 3 pages. See also contextualised resources.

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Non fiction book review two versions (one is more detailed than the other) encouraging learners to look critically at non-fiction information books - looking out for features such as illustrations, headings, glossaries etc. and extracting interesting facts. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Holiday brochure reading strategies provides interesting and topical practice with skimming and scanning. Step by step activities to follow, fill in chart and extension work. All you need is a selection of holiday brochures. Contributed by Leanne Lloyd,  East Durham and Houghall Community College. leannelloyd@ntlworld.com 2 pages. 30K.

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Rt/E3.7 scan texts to locate information

(a) understand that it is not always necessary to read every word

(b) know that headings, sub-headings and key words give clues about context

  • Scan a cinema listing to find the title of a film.
  • Scan a list of websites to select an appropriate one from a search engine list.
  • Scan a website for appropriate information.
  • Scan the ‘Health and Safety Law' poster for the name of the health and safety representative in the workplace.

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Hairdressing resources for E3-L1 is a great set of literacy and numeracy resources based on making appointments. Includes blank and filled appointment sheets, treatment price list (with accompanying questions) and a short writing activity. Ideal for working with money and time. Also involves scanning text. Contributed by Nicola Smith, Royal Forest of Dean College. 9 pages. 85K. Also filed under contextualised resources - hairdressing

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Autumn Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 2 pages. 20K. Note: you will also need the autumn festivals text from Autumn Apple Cake by Judith White.

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Dr Who reading practice is a topical comprehension activity with two sets of differentiated questions (also includes alphabetical ordering) for E3-L1 and L2. Makes a great practice / revision activity before L1-2 exams. Based on a recent story on the BBC web site. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 5 pages, 40K

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Spring Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about spring festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. Thank you Andrea. 12K. Note: you will also need the spring festivals text from Easter Eggs - value for money? by Judith White.

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London Tube - is a series of differentiated questions based on the famous London underground map. Great for scanning practice and sparking off further discussion or writing work. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 4 pages. 60K.

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Be my Valentine is a brilliant resource - especially for younger, teenage students. Includes an original poem, discussion of slang, background info on Valentines Day, writing and speaking ideas. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 4 pages. 150K.

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Dangers of working with cement: skimming, scanning and comprehension exercise. A great way of improving reading skills whilst learning important health and safety information. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 65K. 3 pages. See also contextualised resources.

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Produce a non fiction text is a great series of reading, writing and listening resources that includes: difference between fiction and non fiction, sorting out facts and opinions (with 3 related activities), researching the web to extract facts (with fill in sheets) and turn these into statements to be used in guessing game. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 9 pages. 80K.

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Holiday brochure reading strategies provides interesting and topical practice with skimming and scanning. Step by step activities to follow, fill in chart and extension work. All you need is a selection of holiday brochures. Contributed by Leanne Lloyd,  East Durham and Houghall Community College. leannelloyd@ntlworld.com 2 pages. 30K.
PDF The Commonwealth: great set of resources for E3/L1 literacy and ESOL. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 page. 20K.

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Rt/E3.8 obtain specific information through detailed reading

(a) understand that it is sometimes necessary to read every word, or every word in a relevent section when located

  • Locate and read specific information, e.g. listings in a local newspaper.
  • Check the date and time of an appointment from a letter or card; check the details of a job advertisement.
  • Check recycling and refuse collection days from a council leaflet or website.
  • Check for specific information from a narrative to be discussed with a reading group, e.g. Quick Reads.

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Autumn Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 2 pages. 20K. Note: you will also need the autumn festivals text from Autumn Apple Cake by Judith White.

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Dr Who reading practice is a topical comprehension activity with two sets of differentiated questions (also includes alphabetical ordering) for E3-L1 and L2. Makes a great practice / revision activity before L1-2 exams. Based on a recent story on the BBC web site. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 5 pages, 40K

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Spring Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about spring festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. Thank you Andrea. 12K. Note: you will also need the spring festivals text from Easter Eggs - value for money? by Judith White.

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Dangers of working with cement: skimming, scanning and comprehension exercise. A great way of improving reading skills whilst learning important health and safety information. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 65K. 3 pages. See also contextualised resources.

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Tigger the Hunter is a wonderful, illustrated story written by Tracy Richardson, Level 1 Literacy learner at Henley College, Coventry. Contact through Robert Holt, Rholt@henley-cov.ac.uk, who suggests using this story with Entry 2 -3 learners for reading comprehension / reading in detail, recognising high frequency words, adjectives, phonics & decoding (especially consonant clusters). 6 double pages. 240K

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Non fiction book review two versions (one is more detailed than the other) encouraging learners to look critically at non-fiction information books - looking out for features such as illustrations, headings, glossaries etc. and extracting interesting facts. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Rt/E3.9 relate an image to print and use it to obtain meaning

(a) understand that images are part of a text and provide meaning

  • Use a picture in a TV guide to help locate the date and time of a programme.
  • Use symbols, diagrams and pictures on household products or equipment to help follow instructions for use.

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Health and Safety is a fabulous set of differentiated reading activities for E1-E3. Order sentences to make a gruesome story, read and answer questions on manual handling (inc. graphical information), enjoy an amusing story about a Health and Safety inspector or a topical news report. Contributed by Laurence Fletcher, Wolverhampton City College / Adult Education Service laurencebrc@yahoo.com 7 pages. 260K.

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London Tube - is a series of differentiated questions based on the famous London underground map. Great for scanning practice and sparking off further discussion or writing work. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 4 pages. 60K.

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Wolverhampton supermarket location research. Great way to practise using alphabetical order (and maps) to locate information. Note - probably best for those that live in the Wolverhampton area and requires a local AtoZ map (but the idea could easily be adapted for any area). Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 4 pages. 30K

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Non fiction book review two versions (one is more detailed than the other) encouraging learners to look critically at non-fiction information books - looking out for features such as illustrations, headings, glossaries etc. and extracting interesting facts. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.
PDF The Commonwealth: great set of resources for E3/L1 literacy and ESOL. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 page. 20K.

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Reading – Entry Level 3 – Sentence Focus (Grammar and Punctuation)

General sentence level reading resources covering more than one curriculum element

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Noun, verb or both is a good way to explore the way that words can be both nouns and verbs. Easily edited to suit E1-E3. 10 words to sort. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 200K Please note you must have the Smart notebook software VERSION 10 installed on your computer in order to open, view and use this resource http://smarttech.com/ - further help downloading notebook files here.

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Noun cards can be used for classifying and discussing nouns at all levels. Card sort activity with additional written option. Contributed by Tom Gee tom.gee@tameside.gov.uk Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council. 5 pages. 75K. general E1 grammar general E2 grammar general E3 grammar general L1 grammar general L2 grammar

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Verb charades makes a great introduction to verbs at any level.  Useful as a prompt for discussion and for building confidence and group collaboration. Contributed by Tom Gee tom.gee@tameside.gov.uk Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council 3 pages. 50K.

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Grammar Glamour is an absolutely fabulous interactive board game that can be used as an informal assessment or simply as a fun activity at the end (or beginning!) of term. Designed to be played by two teams. Covers nouns, adjectives, verbs, punctuation, grammar, general knowledge and more! Contributed by Sandie Divers, Huddersfield University (PGCE project) and Henshaw FE Residential College Sandie.Divers@henshaws.org.uk 90 screens. 310K zipped PPT  

Rs/E3.1 Recognise and understand the organisational features and typical language of instructional texts (e.g. use of imperatives, second person)

(a) understand that instructional texts have particular language features, and be able to recognise them
(b) understand that their own knowledge of these features can be applied to help gain meaning from other instructional texts
(c) know and use the term verb and understand its importance as an essential feature of a sentence which conveys the action
(d) understand that verbs also convey time in a sentence: past, present, future
  • Recognise the language of instructions in their own life, e.g.
    Write in block capitals.
    Put the CD in the drive.
    Empty contents into a saucepan and stir gently over a low heat.

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Wordle - recognising different word classes - two beautiful word clouds to help with recognising verbs, nouns and prepositions. With instructions, answers and extension ideas. Wordle is a brilliant Word cloud creator available at: http://wordle.net/ . Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 5 pages, 200K

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Tense - past, present and future makes a great introduction to this tricky topic - using lots of example sentences along with questions to the audience. Contributed by Karen Beasley. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 190K. 14 slides

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Fire Escape involves reading, re-ordering and looking at the layout and features of important health and safety instructions (how to escape from an upstairs room of a burning building). Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 2 pages. 30K

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What's a verb? Clear PPT gives straightforward explanations about 'doing' and 'being' verbs. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk  7 slides. Zipped PPT 330K.

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Pizza fingers is a handy recipe that can be used for numeracy (ratio work) or literacy (reading and ordering instructions). Contributed by Helen Connell, Joseph Priestley College, Leeds. 3 pages. 70K.

PDF Card game - listening to and following instructions is a great paired game for improving listening , speaking and reading skills.  Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com 60K. 4 pages.
PDF Sweets game- listening to and following instructions is a great paired game for improving listening , speaking and reading skills - plus you get to eat the sweets at the end!  Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com 100K. 4 pages.

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Rs/E3.2 Use implicit and explicit knowledge of different types of words (e.g. linking words [connectives], nouns, verbs, adjectives), of word order and of possible plausible meanings to help decode unfamiliar words and help predict meaning.

(a) understand that grammatical patterns, word order, types of words and meanings are inter-related and that only certain types of words and certain meanings will make sense in any particular place in a sentence.

  • Read a simple continuous text written in sentences (e.g. a newspaper article) and get most of the sense, even if they are not able to read every word.
  • Use knowledge of word order and word class to interpret texts.

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David Beckham is an Entry 3 cloze exercise which focuses on past tense verbs. Created as a replacement for the now dated Beckham text in the Skills for Life ESOL materials 2003 (Entry 3, Unit 2 Sport and Exercise, page 2) http://rwp.excellencegateway.org.uk/readwriteplus/LearningMaterialsESOL and is ideal ESOL and Literacy students who are also football fans. Contributed by Ann Matsunaga MATSUA@staff.croydon.ac.uk Croydon College. 2 pages. 30K

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Grammatical terms is a card based activity to assess students' knowledge of 'parts of speech'.  Very useful as a prompt for discussion and as a launching point for work on sentence structure. Contributed by Karen Bruin 2 pages. 60K

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Power walking is a set of two cloze exercises (one for E3, one for L1) followed by an introduction to suffixes. Contributed by Tricia Egginton, Adult Education Centre, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. 3 pages. 40K

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Quick diagnostic test to assess students' knowledge of 'parts of speech'.  Very useful and also makes a good launching point for work on sentence structure. Contributed by Jim Gourlay, Sheffield College Jim.Gourlay@sheffcol.ac.uk 1 page. 20K.

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Wordle - recognising different word classes - two beautiful word clouds to help with recognising verbs, nouns and prepositions. With instructions, answers and extension ideas. Wordle is a brilliant Word cloud creator available at: http://wordle.net/ . Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 5 pages, 200K

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Caught in the Act! is a hilarious cloze / comprehension exercise based on a real letter to a newspaper. Great for E3 reading, prediction and word order work. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 1 page. 30K

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Cavity wall construction. Cloze exercises. A great way of improving reading and grammar skills alongside vocational knowledge. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 25K. 2 pages. See also contextualised resources

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Bricklaying in hot and cold weather. Two cloze exercises. A great way of improving reading and grammar skills alongside vocational knowledge. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 30K. 2 pages. See also contextualised resources

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What are conjunctions? Information, examples of using conjunctions to join two sentences, plus related worksheet. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 65K

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Which Suffix -cian -ssion, sion or tion? is an extensive 13 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), spelling rules, writing sentences, vocabulary, adding and removing suffixes and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for using as a multisensory resource.

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Opposites (antonyms) - 4 worksheets (2 for E2-E3, 2 for E3-L1) that also help with reading, decoding, spelling and vocabulary. Ideal for class or homework. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 4 pages. 40K

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Letter to Santa. Help your child choose presents and write a letter to Santa (great for family learning groups). Includes a cloze/writing frame. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 4 pages. 70K

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Conjunctions exercise also makes a good starting point for discussion on how different conjunctions alter the meaning of a sentence. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk Thank you Laura. 2 pages. 25K.

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Give me some advice is a great way to encourage students to provide non threatening advice, whilst improving their writing and listening-speaking skills. For Entry 3. L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Creating a cinquain is a great way to introduce poetry whilst reinforcing essential grammar, spelling, presentation and handwriting skills. Includes teaching ideas, example poem, planner. Contributed by Fay Middleton, Adult Community Learning Unit, Sheffield City Council. Fay.Middleton@sheffield.gov.uk 5 pages. 60K.

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Individual compound word activities and worksheets to help help with decoding, spelling, dictionary and vocabulary work. Ideal for use with our related 'Themed compound word games'. 9 worksheets (plus answer pages) including - matching, cloze exercises, word search, weather report and much more! 13 pages. 400K.

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Parts of Speech is an absolutely amazing 28 screen PowerPoint (created as part of a PGCE assignment) from Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Interactive activities, links and written exercises (that can also be printed as worksheets) plus lots of points for group discussion. Also great for teacher reference. Zipped PowerPoint file. 28 screens. 350K


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Rs/E3.3 Use punctuation and capitalisation to aid understanding

(a) understand that different punctuation marks are used for different purposes and know their names, including: speech marks to mark off what a speaker says from the surrounding text; commas to separate words in a list, or parts of a sentence; bullet or numbered points to make lists or series of instructions clearer

(b) understand that punctuation relates to sentence structure and text type to help the reader make sense of the written text, and apply this understanding in their own reading.

  • Recognise when questions are being asked on a form by noting the question mark, and using this information to help their reading and predict meaning, e.g. How long have you lived at your present address?
  • Identify the purpose of numbered points in texts, e.g. a report.

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Commas in a list is a picture based exercise (would be great displayed on an interactive whiteboard as an introduction to commas) followed by sentence writing practice. Contributed by Claire Millard, Dudley College of Technology, claire.millard@dudleycol.ac.uk 2 pages. 200K

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Classification of nouns is an interactive PPT with type-in activity boxes. Covers common, proper, collective, compound and abstract nouns. A great introduction to grammar, vocabulary and/or punctuation topics. Contributed by Pam Vardy. 12 slides. Zipped PPT file. 20K

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pre-Roman Britain and Boudicca’s revolt 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. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 280K.

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Nouns - what you need to know! Clear PPT gives straightforward explanations and examples of common, collective and proper nouns. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 10 slides. Zipped PPT 350K.

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Entry Level punctuation cards for a variety of multisensory games, matching activities and challenges. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 4 pages. 130K
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Working with bullet points (CLAIT) neatly combines literacy (punctuation) and ICT. Step by step task sheet asks the learner to set up a document (involves margins, headers, footers, formatting, etc) and then add bullets, shading and paragraph borders. From Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 2 pages. 40K.

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Punctuation cards is a fabulous multi-sensory punctuation game. 8 large cards to laminate plus teaching ideas. Great for mixed ability classes. From Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 9 pages. 300K.

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The Importance of Punctuation useful handout with definitions and examples of common punctuation marks (for E2-L1), a really clever and fun re-writing exercise, cloze exercise, comprehension and more. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 8 pages. 90K. 

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Nouns is a wonderful 22 screen PowerPoint all about common and proper nouns, and when to use capital letters.  Contributed by Imogen Stewart, Stafford College, i.stewart@staffordcoll.ac.uk who was inspired to create this 'virtual shopping bag' resource by Jo Williams' 'Shopping Bag Capital Letters' and Margaret Lagoyianni's 'Capital Letters'. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 320K.

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Shopping Bag Capital Letters is a really refreshing way to introduce or reinforce previous work on capital letters. 3 pages. 64K. Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com who adapted the idea from Margaret Lagoyianni's 'We need capital letters' (below).

PDF Literacy revision. Designed as an end of year activity for an Entry 3 - Level 1 literacy class at Abingdon and Witney College. Use as individual worksheets, a group class exercise, paired work, homework or a quiz. Most questions are based on ‘Words of the Week’. These are words that had been focused upon in various classes throughout the year.  Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes Student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. Thank you Penny. 3 pages. 190K.

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Reading – Entry Level 3 – Word Focus (Vocabulary, Word Recognition and Phonics)

General word level reading resources covering more than one curriculum element

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The Name (or Category) game is another ideal warm-up activity. Students must choose letters of the alphabet and then complete the given categories. The more unusual their words (i.e. if the words are not used by other class members) the more points they get! Contributed by by Louisa Baddiley louisa.baddiley@nottscc.gov.uk Acorn Entry to Employment, Nottinghamshire County Council. 1 page. 25K

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30 Words of the week and related speaking activity - lots of ideas here for themed Word level starters. Give your lessons a longitudinal structure and improve students' dictionary, speaking, spelling and vocabulary skills in small steps across the academic year. Originally used in a series of 30 lessons in a mixed ability classes (E3-L2)With suggestions for further resources and shared texts, related words, revision, spelling tips, and end of term /plenary speaking activities and more. 10 pages. 400K.

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7 Words of the week (replaces our previous 'Wonderful' 1 screen PPT) your students will never look at these words - swim, wonderful, capital, answer, question, postcard and stamp - in the same way again! Used as starter or plenary activity in an Entry 3- Level 2 literacy class. Each screen has a type-in box and animations and is ideal for use with a data projector and a cordless keyboard. Each screen focuses on different aspects of the 'word of the week' - it could be word classes, suffixes, origins, spelling tips, etc. PLEASE read notes within the PowerPoint for teaching ideas and download the PDF below which contains details of 30 further words. 8 screens. Zipped PPT 450K.
PDF Literacy revision. Designed as an end of year activity for an Entry 3 - Level 1 literacy class at Abingdon and Witney College. Use as individual worksheets, a group class exercise, paired work, homework or a quiz. Most questions are based on ‘Words of the Week’. These are words that had been focused upon in various classes throughout the year.  Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes Student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. Thank you Penny. 3 pages. 190K.

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Spring Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about spring festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. Thank you Andrea. 12K. Note: you will also need the spring festivals text from Easter Eggs - value for money? by Judith White.

Rw/E3.1 recognise and understand relevant specialist key words

(a) understand that some words are more important than others in particular contexts
(b) understand what key specialist words are relevant, e.g. at work, specific to a job, health.
(c) understand that knowledge of word origins, shared roots, word structure (e.g. prefixes, suffixes) can help with reading some key specialist words
  • Read and understand key words at work, e.g. health and safety.
  • Read and understand key words in various personal and social contexts, e.g. when reading emails (mailbox, favourite folders), using the internet (browser, site map), or taking part in hobbies and interests.

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Construction word puzzles make excellent fill-ins or introductions to key vocabulary. 1 wordsearch, 1 crossword. Contributed by Ginny Anderson.  50K. 3 pages. Also filed under Contextualised resources - construction.

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Bricklaying wordsearch for key vocabulary. Find 15 hidden words. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 45K. 2 pages. See also contextualised resources

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Vocabulary cards for hairdressers are very useful for all types of spelling, vocabulary or alphabetical ordering work. Contributed by Debbie Hulse, Cannock Chase Technical College, Thank you Debbie. 1 page. 15K. Also listed in our new contextualised resources section.

Rw/E3.2 read and understand words and phrases commonly used on forms

(a) know that some words and phrases are commonly used on forms

  • Read and understand words and phrases commonly used on forms, e.g. occupation, employer, make payable to, direct debit, block capitals, user name, password.

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Job application words is a cut and stick or matching activity first used with New Deal students (laminate for re-use). Makes a good start up activity or prompt for discussion and form filling practice. Contributed by Jane Harbord, Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd.   3 pages. 50K

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Form filling vocabulary - a Game of Definitions makes a great introduction to form filling and is ideal for group, team or individual work. 56 questions. Contributed by Emma Hall, Basic Skills Lecturer at Reaseheath College emmahall@reaseheath.ac.uk 57 slides. Zipped PPT. 25K

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Use and understand forms. Match the words used on forms to their meanings (laminate to make a great re-usable game) and then practise your skills on the example forms. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Ellesmere. 5 pages. 50K

Rw/E3.3 Use a dictionary to find the meaning of unfamiliar words

(a) understand alphabetical order

(b) understand the importance of the alphabetical order of letters within a word

  • Find the meaning of unknown words in their personal reading.

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Using a dictionary is a straightforward but useful worksheet where learners must look up and record word defintions. Contributed by Charlotte Faichney.  1 page. 15K

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Alphabetical order is a straightforward but very useful sheet covering ordering by first and second letters, and dictionary work. Contributed by Jacquie Slater. Jacquie.Slater@tcat.ac.uk Telford College of Arts & Technology.2 pages. 40K

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Obama is President is a topical Entry 3 BBC news text (which has an accompanying video) with comprehension questions and dictionary work. Contributed by Liz Hodges 3 pages. 20K

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Autumn Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 2 pages. 20K. Note: you will also need the autumn festivals text from Autumn Apple Cake by Judith White.

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Using a dictionary (alphabetical order and meanings) is a 5 page information- and work-book written for NVQ 1-2 catering students working on their 'local hospitality provision' project. Contributed by Cathy Barton, cathy.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College.  5 pages. 320K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - catering

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Myths and legends is a set of three worksheets designed to encourage students to explore the language used in three English legends (Matilda's Bracelet, The Abandoned Children of Wailing Wood, The Ghost Hound of Lyme Regis). Stories can all be listened to on the wonderful http://myths.e2bn.org/mythsandlegends/ (printable versions are also available). Questions also cover general comprehension and a lot of dictionary work. Contributed by John England, j.england@staff.covcollege.ac.uk City College, Coventry. 3 pages (each with approx. 20 questions). 20K

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Dictionary Challenge. Wonderful team game for E3-L2 that provides good practice for students in spelling, group discussion and using dictionaries. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood,  Birmingham itamalone82@hotmail.co.uk 9 pages. 45K.

Rw/E3.4 Use first and second place letters to find and sequence words in alphabetical order.

(a) understand alphabetical order

(b) understand the importance of the alphabetical order of letters within a word

  • Find a service in the Yellow Pages, e.g. a plumber or printing shop.
  • Find words in a dictionary.
  • Find a name or product on a database, or in a shopping centre directory.

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Carpentry vocabulary is  resource to improve the correct use and spelling of technical vocabulary. Includes info/answer sheet, matching game (15 words), alphabetical ordering, and spelling ideas. For individual or group challenges. Contributed by Rachel Emmett remmett@tcch.ac.uk Hackney Community College. 5 pages, 50K  Also filed under contextual resources (construction & carpentry)

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Alphabetical fruit and vegetables using Wordle covers ordering by first and second place letters. Ideal for Catering students or anyone with an interest in food! Great for displaying on an interactive whiteboard. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 2 pages. 65K contextualised resources - catering. 

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Alphabetical order groups is a handy set of six colour-coded groups of words to be sorted by first letters - or combine groups and sort by first and second letters. Contributed by Keith Priddle Tower Hamlets College k.priddle@tower.ac.uk 1 page. 15K

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Alphabetical order is a straightforward but very useful sheet covering ordering by first and second letters, and dictionary work. Contributed by Jacquie Slater. Jacquie.Slater@tcat.ac.uk Telford College of Arts & Technology.2 pages. 40K

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Alphabetical ordering cards for motor vehicle students is ideal for anyone interested in cars. Use for first or second place ordering. Contributed by Mark Sergison, Dudley College, mark.sergison@dudleycol.ac.uk 1 page. 25K Also filed under contextualised resources - motor vehicles

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Football Fun provides instructions and extra alphabetical ordering and reading activities to accompany the 2007-08 Premiership and Championship football team cards resource (October 07).  Ideal for football fans of all ages. Contributed by Heidi Griffin, Bournemouth Adult Learning. 3 pages. 60K.  Rw/E2.4  Rw/E3.4

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Autumn Festivals - Entry 3 comprehension questions (also includes alphabetical ordering and dictionary work) based on a short text about autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 2 pages. 20K. Note: you will also need the autumn festivals text from Autumn Apple Cake by Judith White.

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Motor Vehicle vocabulary was first created for E3 MV students and is a fabulous way to motivate students by using technical vocabulary from their own area of study. Includes info/answer sheet, matching game (12 words), alphabetical ordering, spelling and a crossword. For individual or group challenges. Contributed by Rachel Emmett remmett@tcch.ac.uk Hackney Community College. 6 pages, 50K

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Using a dictionary (alphabetical order and meanings) is a 5 page information- and work-book written for NVQ 1-2 catering students working on their 'local hospitality provision' project. Contributed by Cathy Barton, cathy.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College.  5 pages. 320K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - catering

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updated June 2009 Wimbledon is a wonderful simplified text for E2 with comprehension and dictionary questions followed by alphabetical ordering work on the men's/women's top seeds.  Contributed by Christine Robinson, Stockton Adult Education.  4 pages. 42K.

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Dr Who reading practice is a topical comprehension activity with two sets of differentiated questions (also includes alphabetical ordering) for E3-L1 and L2. Makes a great practice / revision activity before L1-2 exams. Based on a recent story on the BBC web site. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 5 pages, 40K

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Love Heart Literacy assignment covers alphabetical ordering, adjectives, reading comprehension, sentences and web research for E2-L2. 7 pages. 65K

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2007-08 Premiership and Championship football team cards for alphabetical ordering and/or reading practice. Simple but popular and useful resource that can be quickly differentiated for different levels by removing multiple teams beginning with same letter, working with all cards or just premiership cards, etc. Best enlarged to A3 and laminated. 1 page. 44 cards. 30K. )

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updated Multi-purpose card based resources for Entry level literacy and numeracy (first uploaded 31/10/2001). One of our most popular resources has now been given a facelift. Includes 'Follow Me' warm-up activity cards on ordering days, months and seasons - for group numeracy sessions (EL1-EL3), also suitable for Literacy (Reading levels E1-E3). Small cards for matching months/days to abbreviations or order. Larger cards for playing matching / sorting games /alphabetical ordering and spelling. Useful key word reference sheets connected to time and numbers. Cheque writing help. Match upper and lower case key words. With dozens of teaching ideas. Best printed on card or laminated. 17 pages. 85K.

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Wolverhampton supermarket location research. Great way to practise using alphabetical order (and maps) to locate information. Note - probably best for those that live in the Wolverhampton area and requires a local AtoZ map (but the idea could easily be adapted for any area). Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 4 pages. 30K

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Supermarket floor plan. Multi-sensory alphabetical ordering activity that is bound to provoke lots of discussion! Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 3 pages. 35K
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Moving text (CLAIT) neatly combines literacy (alphabetical ordering) and ICT. Step by step task sheet asks the learner to set up a document (involves margins, headers, footers, formatting, etc) and then move text using two different techniques. From Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 2 pages. 40K.

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Alphabetical order resources - wonderful multi-sensory games and activities for Entry level students (and higher level students with dyslexia). Contributed by Moira Garland m.garland@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 7 pages. 180K.

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Entry Alphabet Activities. A super, graded set of activities for E1-E3. Start by matching letters, then move on to fill in worksheets and ordering towns alphabetically.  Contributed by Margaret Adams (Brighton University and the Kenward Trust) uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 7 pages. 40K.


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Rw/E3.5 use a variety of reading strategies to help decode an increasing range of unfamiliar words

(a) understand that effective readers draw on several sources of knowledge to help them make sense of unfamiliar words besides looking at the individual words themselves: clues from context, experience, text and sentence structure.

(b) apply knowledge of sound and letter patterns and of structure of words, to help decode them:. including compounds, root words, grammatical endings, prefixes, suffixes, syllable divisions

  • Read common words with silent letters, e.g. knife, knee, debt, receipt, write, wrist.
  • Read words with common prefixes, e.g. un-, dis-, mis-, and suffixes, e.g. -ness, -less, -ly, -ful.
  • Read and relate words with the same root, e.g. hope, hopeful, hopeless, hopefully.
  • Read common compound words, e.g. underneath, airport, whiteboard.
  • ead an advertisement for a service in a directory, be able to decode some unfamiliar words, and decide which company to choose, e.g. for car accident insurance repairs.

Rw/E3.5 sub-sections 

Compound words Roots, prefixes and suffixes Decoding - inc. homographs Phonics

Compound words

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Compound word match is a 16 piece triangular jigsaw puzzle where pairs or small groups of learners must the correct parts to create compound words.  Use as an ice breaker  or plenary activity. Guaranteed to create promote discussion as learners solve puzzle (which should be printed and laminated). Created with Tarsia Formulator (see our Useful Links page for further details) which is available for free download. Tarsia can make card matches, dominoes or jigsaws; all saved as custom Tarsia (fjsw) files. 10K

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Themed compound word games to help help with decoding, spelling and vocabulary work. Match the words to make new compound words and find the secret theme! Three game options plus a separate whole class game. Very popular with my Entry 3 - Level 1 students! 10 pages. 140K.

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Individual compound word activities and worksheets to help help with decoding, spelling, dictionary and vocabulary work. Ideal for use with our related Themed compound word games (see below). 9 worksheets (plus answer pages) including - matching, cloze exercises, word search, weather report and much more! 13 pages. 400K.

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Compound word pairs is a page from our 'Compound Word Activities' (13 pages - still available below) resource that has been improved with clearer graphics and clues from Karen Bruin. 1 page. 40K.

Roots, prefixes and suffixes

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Root words provides a clear and straightforward introduction to this topic for Entry level learners. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 8 slides. Zipped PPT. 100K

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Word root 'port' (to carry) word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration!. 30K

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Which Suffix -cian -ssion, sion or tion? is an extensive 13 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), spelling rules, writing sentences, vocabulary, adding and removing suffixes and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for using as a multisensory resource.

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Adding suffixes er or ar to make nouns is a huge 15 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), imperatives, spelling rules, words with more than one meaning, spelling strategies and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for contextualisation and using as a multisensory resource. 150K

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Word root 'spect' - word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration!. 25K

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Root word - clean. Word map to help students build words and make vocabulary connections. Use for spelling, parts of speech, or vocabulary work.

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Teaching ideas for using our popular word maps. Lots of ideas for using our Word Root and Letter String Maps in creative and multi-sensory way! 2 pages. 90K. Note: these word maps are available:  Port   Spect   -eigh-  Clean  -augh-

Decoding

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'ch' words is a very useful set of flashcards (with teaching ideas) and accompanying worksheet to help learners decode words with the three different 'ch' phonemes (e.g. as in stomach, pinch and chef).  For E3 Literacy/ESOL. From Sonia Carroll, City and Islington College sonia.carroll@candi.ac.uk  50K. 11 pages. Covers ESOL Rw/E3.5 (a) but filed under Literacy Rw/E3.5 (as ESOL is only covered separately on this site at Entry Level 1 and 2)

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Omelette syllables is a nice introduction to using syllables to help with decoding and spelling. Contributed by Tricia Egginton, Adult Education Centre, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. 2 pages. 40K. Also filed under contextualised resources - catering.

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Tigger the Hunter is a wonderful, illustrated story written by Tracy Richardson, Level 1 Literacy learner at Henley College, Coventry. Contact through Robert Holt, Rholt@henley-cov.ac.uk, who suggests using this story with Entry 2 -3 learners for reading comprehension / reading in detail, recognising high frequency words, adjectives, phonics & decoding (especially consonant clusters). 6 double pages. 240K

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Which is witch? Useful handout with definitions and examples of homonyms, homophones and homographs. Great for promoting discussion and also for teacher reference. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 1 page. 60K

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Homographs. A great handout to help with spelling and 'working out the meaning of unfamiliar words'. Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes PGCE student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. 3 pages. 200K

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Opposites (antonyms) - 4 worksheets (2 for E2-E3, 2 for E3-L1) that also help with reading, decoding, spelling and vocabulary. Ideal for class or homework. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 4 pages. 40K

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Letter string 'eigh' - word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration!. 20K

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-augh- words. Word map. Originally created for a dyslexic student student who had learned to spell the word 'laughter'. Use as an example for students to follow when making other word maps (but encourage them to make their own maps and make their own 'connections'). Also for tutor reference.

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Homographs has a clear handout about 'bat' and a practice sheet on 'bow' and 'scales'. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 120K

Phonics

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Charlie's Mum Crossword to accompany Vicky Maltby's 'A Gift for Charlie's Mum' (still available) which focuses on consonant digraphs th ch and sh. Contributed by Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 2 pages. 40K

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 Yesterday's World text (about an attraction in Sussex) and related phonics activities (based on the two sounds of the digraph /th/). Includes word sorting, cloze, crossword.  Originally written for a mixed level Literacy and ESOL group. Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 6 pages. 80K


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ENTRY 3 WRITING

Entry 3 - General Writing

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East is East review is a comprehension and writing task sheet for E3-L1. If learners also watch the East is East DVD it also provides lots of opportunity to discuss issues of race and culture. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd.  3 pages. 30K

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My Christmas v2 covers planning, drafting and proof reading a letter or a short story about activities over Christmas. This version is adapted especially for learners that spend Christmas in prison (or other places away from friends and family) and has been adapted from last year's version from Danielle Dagnall. Adapted by Karen Bruin, 4 pages. 30K.

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Bad hair day is a great writing and discussion exercise that gets hairdressing students thinking about the importance of writing clear instructions. Will also spark off other activities as suggested in the accompanying teacher's notes. Contributed by Ruth Uprichard, Groundwork, Oldham & Rochdale. 3 pages, 80K. Also filed under contextualised resources - hairdressing. Also suitable for underpinning Entry 3 Functional English

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Writing prompt cards is a lovely set of 24 cards (topics inc. sport, lottery win, hobbies, summer, beach, schooldays, fame, etc.) to be used as inspiration for creative writing (E3-L2) or sentence level writing (E1-2). Contributed by Sheila Greenman, Abingdon & Witney College sheila.greenman@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 6 pages. 450K

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Writing a good CV is a presentation full of useful DOs and DON'Ts that finishes with a differentiated proof reading task for E3, L1, L2. Contributed by Louise Swain, swainlouise@gmail.com Milton Keynes College. Thank you Louise. 7 screens. 30K zipped PPT. Also filed under Contextualised resources - employment.

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Hairdressing resources for E3-L1 is a great set of literacy and numeracy resources based on making appointments. Includes blank and filled appointment sheets, treatment price list (with accompanying questions) and a short writing activity. Ideal for working with money and time. Also involves scanning text. Contributed by Nicola Smith, Royal Forest of Dean College. 9 pages. 85K. Also filed under contextualised resources - hairdressing

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My Christmas covers planning, drafting and proof reading a letter or a short story about activities over Christmas. This version is aimed at Entry 3 but can also be used for other levels (includes a mark sheet for E3 assessment). Contributed by Danielle Dagnall, Tameside College Danielle.Dagnall@tameside.ac.uk (Adapted from an earlier E3-L2 Lapland writing resource by Marion Crocker - see below. 4 pages. 40K

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Christmas writing practice assignment in the style of City and Guilds Entry Assignments - covers planning, drafting and proof reading a letter from Lapland. With a mark sheet for E1, E2 and E3 to allow for differentiated assessment. 4 pages. 125K.

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CV templates two very useful templates can be used for word processing or as an outline planner/ writing frame. Contributed by Steve Mangan. 2 pages. 40K. Use in conjunction with Steve's CV - Telephone Skills PPT (below). 40K. Also filed  under Contextualised resources (Employment skills).

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CV and Telephone Skills is a super presentation full of useful tips for writing your CV, answering the telephone, taking messages, etc. Contributed by Steve Mangan. Use in conjunction with Steve's CV templates (above). Also filed under Contextualised resources (Employment skills). 11 slides. 40K zipped PPT file.

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Moral Dilemmas is a great game aimed at 16-18 year olds (easily adapted for other age groups) that provides focus points for group discussion along with reading, writing and listening practice. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 20K.

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Problem Page is a great way to encourage paired reading, writing and discussion skills. Students discuss a typical problem from a tabloid newspaper page and then, in pairs, work on different problems and how they would solve them. For Entry 3, L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 12 pages. 60K

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Give me some advice is a great way to encourage students to provide non threatening advice, whilst improving their writing and listening-speaking skills. For Entry 3. L1/2 ESOL and Literacy. Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Winter holiday in Lapland writing assignment covers planning, drafting and proof reading a recount. This is an adapted version of the popular Entry Level Christmas in Lapland assignment. This version is aimed at Entry 3- Level 2 and gives the writer a choice of format: letter, diary entry or story. This version also removes the Christmas  references and can thus be used at any time during the winter months. With a mark sheet for E3, L1 or L2 to allow for differentiated assessment. Adapted by Marion Crocker, Abingdon and Witney College, marion.crocker@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 6 pages. 90K.


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Writing –  Entry Level 3 – Text Focus (Writing Composition)

Wt/E3.1 plan and draft writing

(a) understand that the choice of how to organise writing depends on the context and audience
(b) understand that there are different ways of planning, e.g. notes to organise and review thinking, a list of points to include, a diagram to group related points together, a mind map or spider-gram
(c) understand that drafting follows planning and involves turning plans into something nearer the finished version
(d) understand that some writing has to be written straight off, with the only planning taking place in the writer’s head
(e) Understand that when using a word processor to plan, sections of text can be moved from one part of a text to another
  • Plan and draft their own writing to a satisfactory final standard for the task, e.g. a letter to a teacher explaining they are going on holiday; a story or poem for a college or community magazine, a short report, an email in the workplace, or a personal statement for a job application.

Ww/E3.1 sub-sections 

Writing frames and planners General drafting and planning Mind mapping and spidergrams

Writing frames and organisers

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Letter writing ideas - step by step guide to letter and note writing. Choose an idea, think about purpose and audience, plan, draft, revise and proof read. Use in an E3-L1 class after extensive text level reading work on letters (resources on purpose, language and layout of letters to follow soon). 6 colour pages. 120K.

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Film, book and TV review sheets - writing frames produce interesting, personal reviews whilst learning about planning, using paragraphs, etc. 3 writing frames from Joy Collins, New College, Telford. 3 pages. 35K

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Christmas menu writing frame encourages the use of adjectives and other persuasive language. Ideal to use after the Food Descriptions game. 1 page. 230K.

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Writing frame 3. Directions. Three step by step writing frames take the learner through planning to the final draft. Page 1 has a checklist with the key features and suggestions for setting out directions in a clear and logical manner. Page 2 includes line guides and brief hints, and page 3 is for the final polished version. 3 pages. 50K. 

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Writing frame 2. A favourite recipe. Three step by step writing frames take the learner through planning to the final draft. Page 1 has a checklist with the key features and suggestions for setting out a favourite recipe. Page 2 includes line guides only and page 3 is blank for the final polished version. 3 pages. 90K.

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Writing Frames Set 1: planning, drafting and writing Estate Agents Ads. Use with our other descriptive writing resources. 3 pages. 40K.

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Letter to Santa. Help your child choose presents and write a letter to Santa (great for family learning groups). Includes a cloze/writing frame. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 4 pages. 70K

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Creating a cinquain is a great way to introduce poetry whilst reinforcing essential grammar, spelling, presentation and handwriting skills. Includes teaching ideas, example poem, planner. Contributed by Fay Middleton, Adult Community Learning Unit, Sheffield City Council. Fay.Middleton@sheffield.gov.uk 5 pages. 60K.

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Writing an information text is a useful planner to focus learners and help them decide what to write about, and what information and layout features to use. Use in conjunction with Anne's non fiction book review. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 20K.

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Describing people - a writing framework is a great scaffolded writing resource that makes descriptive less daunting and a lot of fun! Ideal for use after introducing adjectives. Contributed by Vicky Douglas, Northern Learning Trust. 4 pages. 160K

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Hired or Fired is a lesson plan for E3- L2 based loosely on 'The Apprentice' TV show. Timed differentiated plan covering purpose of text, writing a persuasive advertisement and planning a newspaper article using a graphic organiser (using Maureen Prowse's graphic organiser - see here). Includes plan, task sheet and images. Now with blank spaces to allow you to fill in the name of your own local shopping centre etc rather than use Mocha Parade in Salford. Contributed by Jodie Travis, Accrington and Rossendale College travisjodie@hotmail.com 130K. 5 pages.

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Graphic organiser activities. Find out about graphic organisers by completing the cloze. Then follow the instructions to create your own graphic organiser and plan a five paragraph magazine article in 5 minutes! All you need is your hand and a blank sheet of paper! From Maureen Prowse at maureenprowse@mjptraining.co.uk 60K. 3 pages.

General drafting and planning includes scaffolded tasks

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Fantasy job lesson plan is a step by step detailed plan based on Jane Harbord's popular Fantasy Job Project resource submitted in 2008.  Gets students looking at job adverts and discussing what is required by employers. Great for general literacy classes or employment skills groups.  Contributed by Philip Hinchcliffe, Working Links, Middlesbrough. 2 pages. 15K Also filed under Contextualised resources - employment.

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Character Building is a set of two resources (PDF and PowerPoint) written for Literacy through Drama students and is ideal for young social networking fans. A character must be selected and then imaginary Facebook/MySpace profiles written. Ideal for encouraging descriptive writing, use of adjectives, etc. 8 pages of writing frames plus a great PPT to introduce the topic (uses Bart Simpson as the character). Contributed by Marc Young, Bury College marc.young@hotmail.co.uk  8 page PDF 120K. 6 screen zipped PPT file 190K

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Susan Boyle - Britain's got Talent is a fabulous, topical set of Entry level resources based on the popular 2009 TV series. Covers reading comprehension, sentence structure,  punctuation, planning writing (includes several writing frames), paragraphs, and much more. Contributed by Margery Lynott, Leeds City College margery.lynott@thomasdanby.ac.uk 10 pages. 70K.

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Fantasy job project is a great way to get student looking at job adverts and discussing what is required by employers. This scaffolded writing task lists points for students to consider  before planning A3 job adverts/posters. First used with New Deal students. Contributed by Jane Harbord Jane.harbord@ppdg.co.uk Pertemps People Development Group Ltd. 2 pages. 30K

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Happy Holidays is a 14 screen presentation that was used and created during a series of 8 x 2 hour lessons. DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE - and please read the notes underneath each slide! Start by looking at postcards. Then learn about compound words and write a group postcard (followed by individual ones). Move on to look at adjectives and the persuasive language of holiday advertisements (inc. working out unfamiliar vocabulary) and finish by writing your own hotel adverts. Please also download the related PDF file (below) which includes writing frames, planners and posters. Zipped PPT 600K.

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Happy Holidays extra resources is to accompany the Happy Holidays PowerPoint (above and includes 'footsteps to good writing', classroom poster or handout, planner, adjective wheel worksheet, 2 shared texts, and 3 writing frames along with plenty of teaching ideas and curriculum links. Again, DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE. 15 pages 200K.

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Pancake ICT writing task gives step by step instructions for writing your own Pancake Facts text (you will also need a copy of Margaret Lagoyiani's Pancake resource) and typing up a pancake recipe. For Entry 3 ICT/Lit students and also suitable portfolio evidence for NOCN E3 Writing and reading for meaning. Contributed by June Mill, Skills for Life tutor, East Riding of Yorkshire. mill.sancton@tiscali.co.uk 2 pages. 45K. E3 Skills for Life ICT Wt/E3.1 Wt/E3.2

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Weird Food is another interesting and fun writing task that also helps with research skills and using language fit for purpose. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 1 page. 40K

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Be my Valentine is a brilliant resource - especially for younger, teenage students. Includes an original poem, discussion of slang, background info on Valentines Day, writing and speaking ideas. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyiani, Lakelands School, Sports & Language College, Shropshire margaretlago2@btopenworld.com 4 pages. 150K.

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Writing a recount task sheet with definitions, notes on purpose, and planning steps. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 20K.
  House for Sale Ads: Individual Projects (a) Descriptive / Persuasive writing. Lesson plan, links and samples of students' work. Writing on PC –  spellchecker, etc.

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Descriptive Non Fiction Texts: tutor notes, curriculum links, student hand-out (L1/2) about objective v subjective (persuasive) descriptions, reading activity on fact and opinion (in Estate Agent ads) with fill-in sheet, lots of writing ideas. This resource makes a good companion to our House Ads OHT and shared text, and our group or individual writing projects and our Writing Frames 1. Originally used for a class writing project (using adjectives) in Jan 2002. E2-L2. 5 pages. 87K.

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Chomwell Green OHT - in Word format for shared group writing. Originally used for a class writing project (using adjectives) in Jan 2002. We have updated the font and the cost of the house! 

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Unusual football injuries is an interesting and fun writing that also helps with reading skills, using language fit for purpose and logical structure. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 2 pages. 30K

Mind mapping and spidergrams

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The writing process is a fabulous multi-sensory, differentiated activity where students gradually build up their own mind maps and learn to see writing a a process not simply a finished piece of work. With excellent tutor notes and extension ideas. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 13 pages. 130K

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An introduction to mind mapping - planning a beach holiday. Fabulous multi-sensory resource for introducing mind mapping to learners at all levels. Includes teaching instructions, keys words and images (best laminated), sample mind map, sample report writing exercise based on mind map, and a very useful handout: 'How to Mind Map'.  Contributed by Ruth Wood, Pro Training, Colwick, Nottingham info@protraining.co.uk 280K. 7 pages

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Wt/E3.2 organise writing in short paragraphs

(a) understand that paragraphs normally consist of more than one sentence
(b) understand that paragraphs are not arbitrary divisions put in at the end of writing but a way of grouping the main points and supporting detail at the drafting stage
(c) understand that paragraphs are often introduced by a topic sentence
(d) understand that paragraphs can be arranged under heading in certain sorts of texts, e.g. information texts
(e) understand that paragraphs need to follow on from each other using appropriate linking words
  • Plan, draft and write a continuous coherent text of at least half a page divided into short paragraphs, e.g. a description of a place for the opening of a story, a reply to a business letter received at home, a personal statement for a job application, or a short report

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Susan Boyle - Britain's got Talent is a fabulous, topical set of Entry level resources based on the popular 2009 TV series. Covers reading comprehension, sentence structure,  punctuation, planning writing (includes several writing frames), paragraphs, and much more. Contributed by Margery Lynott, Leeds City College margery.lynott@thomasdanby.ac.uk 10 pages. 70K.

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What is a paragraph? Fabulous PowerPoint with clear explanations and good points for discussion. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire who suggests:  '... it is best to use books and magazines for follow up work - rather than worksheets. Stick chosen articles etc. on card then cut out and re-arrange in correct order (E3). L1 can get stuck in with writing work and would benefit from another session on topic sentences'. Zipped PowerPoint file. 11 screens. 125K

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What is a paragraph? (2) Cleverly uses bricks as a visual extended metaphor to explain the rules of paragraphing. I.e. brick = paragraph, pile of bricks = paragraphs that are related but have no cohesive devices to link them, brick wall with cement = cohesive devices and finally, whole house = well structured text. Contributed by Sharon Mason SharonMason@hillcroft.ac.uk Hillcroft College, Surbiton. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 140K. 5 slides.

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Writing paragraphs explains all about topic, supporting and ending sentences with good, clear examples. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 7 slides. Zipped PPT. 180K.

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Updated Graphic organiser activities. Find out about graphic organisers by completing the cloze. Then follow the instructions to create your own graphic organiser and plan a five paragraph magazine article in 5 minutes! All you need is your hand and a blank sheet of paper! From Maureen Prowse at maureenprowse@mjptraining.co.uk 60K. 3 pages.

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Pancake ICT writing task gives step by step instructions for writing your own Pancake Facts text (you will also need a copy of Margaret Lagoyiani's Pancake resource) and typing up a pancake recipe. For Entry 3 ICT/Lit students and also suitable portfolio evidence for NOCN E3 Writing and reading for meaning. Contributed by June Mill, Skills for Life tutor, East Riding of Yorkshire. mill.sancton@tiscali.co.uk 2 pages. 45K.

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Writing a recount task sheet with definitions, notes on purpose, and planning steps. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 20K.

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Writing an information text is a useful planner to focus learners and help them decide what to write about, and what information and layout features to use. Use in conjunction with Anne's non fiction book review. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 20K.

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Film, book and TV review sheets - writing frames produce interesting, personal reviews whilst learning about planning, using paragraphs, etc. 3 writing frames from Joy Collins, New College, Telford. 3 pages. 35K

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Wt/E3.3 sequence chronological writing

(a) understand that some writing is sequenced by order of events in time
(b) understand that certain linking words are useful to join sentences and paragraphs in chronological writing, e.g. first, then , later, while, before, after
  • Write a chronological account of a recent event in their own life, e.g. going to see their child in a school concert.
  • Write a description of a process where stages must occur in a particular sequence, e.g. preparing a wall and hanging wallpaper

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Christmas Day cut and paste chronological text activity provides step by step cutting and pasting instructions for ICT/Lit students plus useful practice in ordering chronological text (events during Christmas day). Contributed by Gill Clark. Monmouthshire Adult + Community Education gillyclarko@tiscali.co.uk Thank you Gill. 3 pages. 140K. E3-L1 Skills for Life ICT

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My day - cut and paste chronological text activity provides step by step cutting and pasting instructions for ICT/Lit students plus useful practice in ordering chronological text. Contributed by Gill Clark. 1 page. 20K.

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Writing a recount task sheet with definitions, notes on purpose, and planning steps. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 20K.

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Happy Holidays is a 14 screen presentation that was used and created during a series of 8 x 2 hour lessons. DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE - and please read the notes underneath each slide! Start by looking at postcards. Then learn about compound words and write a group postcard (followed by individual ones). Move on to look at adjectives and the persuasive language of holiday advertisements (inc. working out unfamiliar vocabulary) and finish by writing your own hotel adverts. Please also download the related PDF file (below) which includes writing frames, planners and posters. Zipped PPT 600K.

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Happy Holidays extra resources is to accompany the Happy Holidays PowerPoint (above and includes 'footsteps to good writing', classroom poster or handout, planner, adjective wheel worksheet, 2 shared texts, and 3 writing frames along with plenty of teaching ideas and curriculum links. Again, DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE. 15 pages 200K.

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Writing frame 3. Directions. Three step by step writing frames take the learner through planning to the final draft. Page 1 has a checklist with the key features and suggestions for setting out directions in a clear and logical manner. Page 2 includes line guides and brief hints, and page 3 is for the final polished version. 3 pages. 50K. 

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Writing frame 2. A favourite recipe. Three step by step writing frames take the learner through planning to the final draft. Page 1 has a checklist with the key features and suggestions for setting out a favourite recipe. Page 2 includes line guides only and page 3 is blank for the final polished version. 3 pages. 90K.


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Wt/E3.4 proof-read and correct writing for grammar and spelling

(a) know when to proof-read, i.e. after drafting and editing, to check if the text can be the final version

  • Proofread their own writing, on paper and screen, identifying and correcting the main errors of sense and spelling; use a dictionary or spell-check if necessary.

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Proof reading posters provide cheerful, visual reminders to learners about checking their writing. Two versions - one for E3-L1, one for L2, etc.) - also make good handouts. Contributed by Sheila Greenman, Abingdon & Witney College sheila.greenman@abingdon-witney.ac.uk  2 pages. 50K

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The writing process is a fabulous multi-sensory, differentiated activity where students gradually build up their own mind maps and learn to see writing a a process not simply a finished piece of work. With excellent tutor notes and extension ideas. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 13 pages. 130K

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Letter writing ideas - step by step guide to letter and note writing. Choose an idea, think about purpose and audience, plan, draft, revise and proof read. Use in an E3-L1 class after extensive text level reading work on letters (resources on purpose, language and layout of letters to follow soon). 6 colour pages. 120K.

  House for Sale Ads: Individual Projects (a) Descriptive / Persuasive writing. Lesson plan, links and samples of students' work. Writing on PC –  spellchecker, etc.

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Writing –  Entry Level 3 – Sentence Focus (Grammar and Punctuation)

General sentence level writing resources covering more than one curriculum element

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Sparkling sentences for bonfire night is a lovely seasonal literacy starter activity that covers adjectives, adverbs, sentence structure and punctuation. You will need a packet of sparklers. Contributed by Jo Collins joanne.collins1@virgin.net 1 page, 80K

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Grammar Glamour is an absolutely fabulous interactive board game that can be used as an informal assessment or simply as a fun activity at the end (or beginning!) of term. Designed to be played by two teams. Covers nouns, adjectives, verbs, punctuation, grammar, general knowledge and more! Contributed by Sandie Divers, Huddersfield University (PGCE project) and Henshaw FE Residential College Sandie.Divers@henshaws.org.uk 90 screens. 310K zipped PPT  

Ws/E3.1 write in complete sentences

(a) understand that simple and compound sentences can be amplified by expanding the information around the subject, object, complement and verb.
(b) understand that longer sentences may need conjunctions and connectives such as and, but, because to link different parts together.
  • Use complete sentences with one or more clauses in familiar forms of written communication.

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England's World Cup is a great set of mixed Entry exercises where learners are encouraged to use a range of positive (and negative!) adjectives to describe their favourite  players. Plus: write to Capello (writing frame included!), reading and discussion, rearrange sentences, use conjunctions, and research previous World Cups. Contributed by Matthew Brooke, Parenta E2E.  Topical resources

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Extending simple sentences with 'because' is a useful set of worksheets where students must come up with their own sentence endings. Understanding basic sentence structure is a vital component of Entry Functional English so this is ideal for underpinning these writing skills. Contributed by Hazel Hughes, Selly Oak Trust School, Birmingham. 2 pages. 12K

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Character Building is a set of two resources (PDF and PowerPoint) written for Literacy through Drama students and is ideal for young social networking fans. A character must be selected and then imaginary Facebook/MySpace profiles written. Ideal for encouraging descriptive writing, use of adjectives, etc. 8 pages of writing frames plus a great PPT to introduce the topic (uses Bart Simpson as the character). Contributed by Marc Young, Bury College marc.young@hotmail.co.uk  8 page PDF 120K. 6 screen zipped PPT file 190K

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Sentence structure and grammar is a great way to introduce the idea of properly constructed sentences. Covers punctuation, connectives, tense, subjects & verbs, tense and subject-verb agreement. Contributed by Gill Moore, Tamworth & Lichfield College. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 17 slides. 12K. Ws/E2.1 Ws/E3.1 Ws/E3.2

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Describing people - a writing framework is a great scaffolded writing resource that makes descriptive less daunting and a lot of fun! Ideal for use after introducing adjectives. Contributed by Vicky Douglas, Northern Learning Trust. 4 pages. 160K

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Love Heart Literacy assignment covers alphabetical ordering, adjectives, reading comprehension, sentences and web research for E2-L2. 7 pages. 65K

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What are conjunctions? Information, examples of using conjunctions to join two sentences, plus related worksheet. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 65K

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updated (first uploaded 17/04/01) Which Suffix -cian -ssion, sion or tion? is an extensive 13 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), spelling rules, writing sentences, vocabulary, adding and removing suffixes and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for using as a multisensory resource.

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updated April 07 (first uploaded 17/04/01) Adding suffixes er or ar to make nouns is a huge 15 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), imperatives, spelling rules, words with more than one meaning, spelling strategies and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for contextualisation and using as a multisensory resource. 150K

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Pancake day literacy and numeracy activities. Two pancake texts to read, questions to answer, recipes to re-size (simple ratios) and instructions to match and order. Wonderful topical work for Entry 2 to Level 1. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 6 pages. 70K

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What's in your wallet?  Written for learners on the autistic spectrum (who often find it particularly difficult to infer meaning that is not explicitly stated) but suitable fo many literacy and/or numeracy students. General financial numeracy theme on budgeting, expenditure, saving etc - accompanied by two way discussion, making sense of monetary idioms and clichιs (e.g. 'making both ends meet'), and writing complete sentences. Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome. anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 90K.

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Conjunctions exercise also makes a good starting point for discussion on how different conjunctions alter the meaning of a sentence. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk Thank you Laura. 2 pages. 25K.

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Produce a non fiction text is a great series of reading, writing and listening resources that includes: difference between fiction and non fiction, sorting out facts and opinions (with 3 related activities), researching the web to extract facts (with fill in sheets) and turn these into statements to be used in guessing game. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 9 pages. 80K.

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Discovering sentences is another amazing PowerPoint from Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Something here for all levels: information, examples and onscreen activities cover a host of topics inc: simple, compound and complex sentences; punctuation; question words; coordinating and subordinating conjunctions; formal letter writing; topic and concluding sentences; a handy 'Is it a sentence?' checklist, structuring an argument, linking paragraphs. Also great for teacher reference. Zipped PowerPoint file. 27 screens. 450K

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updated Complex sentences. Use subordinating conjunctions to extend simple sentences. 1 page (free editable Word version available). 60K. Ws/E3.1 L1.1 L2.1


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Ws/E3.2 use correct basic grammar (e.g. appropriate verb tense, subject-verb agreement)

(a) understand the concepts of past, present and future, that human beings exist in time, and that language reflects this through the tenses of verbs which can change form to convey time past, present or future
(b) recognise that past, present and future are expressed in different ways, such as simple, continuous and perfect aspects to convey different shades of meaning new sub-element added in 2009 curriculum update
(c) understand that verbs convey actions (physical and non-physical)
understand that a verb and its subject or 'doer' must 'agree'; both must be either singular (i.e. one) or plural (i.e. more than one) this sub-element removed in the 2009 update
(d) understand when it is important to use Standard English grammar and when a variety may be appropriate new sub-element added in 2009 curriculum update
(e) understand and be able to recognise how different varieties of English use different grammatical structures (e.g. we was) or case (e.g. me and my friend met at the cinema) this sub-element amended in 2009 update
(f) know and understand the terms verb, tense, subject of a sentence
  • Write grammatically correct sentences using the past, present and future tenses as needed, with subject-verb agreement, e.g. a report to a community group or a letter to their child's school.

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Subject - verb agreement is an immaculate set of resources accompanied by a detailed lesson plan - used with construction, decorating, and motor vehicle students but suitable for all.  Includes spot the error. select the correct verb, identify the 'subject', spinner sentence activity for collective nouns and a Lewis Hamilton grammar exercise. Contributed by Mary Atherton. 150K. 3 page lesson plan and 5 pages of resources. Also filed under contextualised resources: construction, motor vehicles and decorating.

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Sentence structure and grammar is a great way to introduce the idea of properly constructed sentences. Covers punctuation, connectives, tense, subjects & verbs, tense and subject-verb agreement. Contributed by Gill Moore, Tamworth & Lichfield College. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 17 slides. 12K. Ws/E2.1 Ws/E3.1 Ws/E3.2

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Tense - past, present and future makes a great introduction to this tricky topic - using lots of example sentences along with questions to the audience. Contributed by Karen Beasley. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 190K. 14 slides

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Brickwork: Subject - verb agreement for construction. Select from is/are to create grammatically correct sentences. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 60K. 1 page. See also contextualised resources

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What's a verb? Clear PPT gives straightforward explanations about 'doing' and 'being' verbs. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk  7 slides. Zipped PPT 330K.

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What is a sentence? explains about subjects and verbs and includes a practice sheet. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 110K

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Grammar - check your knowledge is an interactive PPT that is ideal for grammar revision (for L1 and 2 tests). Use for whole group work or individual brush-up sessions. Focuses on subject-verb agreement. Answer the questions and check your answers. From Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Zipped PowerPoint file. 36 screens inc. answer sheets. 200K

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Creating a cinquain is a great way to introduce poetry whilst reinforcing essential grammar, spelling, presentation and handwriting skills. Includes teaching ideas, example poem, planner. Contributed by Fay Middleton, Adult Community Learning Unit, Sheffield City Council. Fay.Middleton@sheffield.gov.uk 5 pages. 60K.

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Basic grammar - interactive Word worksheet where learner selects correct word from drop down menus. Focuses on correct use of gone, go, went and has, had, have. 10 cloze questions. Contributed by Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 2 pages. 80K

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Parts of Speech is an absolutely amazing 28 screen PowerPoint (created as part of a PGCE assignment) from Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Interactive activities, links and written exercises (that can also be printed as worksheets) plus lots of points for group discussion. Also great for teacher reference. Zipped PowerPoint file. 28 screens. 350K

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updated  Verb endings. Editable online Word worksheet. Explore various sites to practice adding -ed and -ing suffixes and investigate irregular past tense verbs. Uses the Guide to Grammar and Writing and English Zone.

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Complex sentences. Use subordinating conjunctions to extend simple sentences. 1 page (free editable Word version available). 60K.


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Ws/E3.3 use pronouns so that their meaning is clear new element in 2009 curriculum update

(a) understand that pronouns are used to refer to nouns, to avoid having to repeat the noun each time
(b) know the term pronoun and be able to identify personal pronouns: I, me, we, us, you, they, them
  • Recount an experience or incident (e.g. as part of a letter of complaint), using pronouns with clarity.

 

 


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Ws/E3.4 use punctuation correctly (e.g. capital letters, full stops, question marks, exclamation marks, commas)  note that this element was previously  numbered Ws/E3.3 (which now covers pronouns)

(a) understand that these (full stops, question marks and exclamation marks) are the complete family of sentence boundary markers used in continuous text written in complete sentences
(b) understand when commas are needed in sentences (e.g. to separate items in a list), and that commas should not be used in place of full stops new sub-element
(c) understand that certain types of writing use bulleted and numbered points for clarity new sub-element
(d) understand that exclamation marks and sometimes question marks can affect meaning, and can act as the equivalent of intonation in spoken language
  • Write an informal letter or account of an experience using complete sentences marked with capital letters, full stops, question marks, exclamation marks and commas, as appropriate.
  • Write a short report or email including numbered or bulleted points.

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Commas in a list is a picture based exercise (would be great displayed on an interactive whiteboard as an introduction to commas) followed by sentence writing practice. Contributed by Claire Millard, Dudley College of Technology, claire.millard@dudleycol.ac.uk 2 pages. 200K

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*Adding punctuation is a large print exercise (capital letters and full stops) that would also make a great group exercise if displayed on a whiteboard or smartboard. Contributed by Julie Hobson, Northern Learning Trust. 2 pages. 16K

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*Classification of nouns is an interactive PPT with type-in activity boxes. Covers common, proper, collective, compound and abstract nouns. A great introduction to grammar, vocabulary and/or punctuation topics. Contributed by Pam Vardy. 12 slides. Zipped PPT file. 20K.

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*Love Heart Literacy assignment covers alphabetical ordering, adjectives, reading comprehension, sentences and web research for E2-L2. 7 pages. 65K

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*pre-Roman Britain and Boudicca’s revolt 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. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 280K.

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*Nouns - what you need to know! Clear PPT gives straightforward explanations and examples of common, collective and proper nouns. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 10 slides. Zipped PPT 350K.

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*What makes a sentence? explains about end of sentence markers and includes a practice sheet where students must finish each sentence with the correct punctuation mark.. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 55K

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*Entry Level punctuation cards for a variety of multisensory games, matching activities and challenges. Contributed by Laura Jeffrey, Matthew Boulton College, ljeffrey@mbc.ac.uk 4 pages. 130K
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*Punctuation cards is a fabulous multi-sensory punctuation game. 8 large cards to laminate plus teaching ideas. Great for mixed ability classes. From Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 9 pages. 300K.

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*Discovering sentences is another amazing PowerPoint from Jennifer Baines j.baines@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. Something here for all levels: information, examples and onscreen activities cover a host of topics inc: simple, compound and complex sentences; punctuation; question words; coordinating and subordinating conjunctions; formal letter writing; topic and concluding sentences; a handy 'Is it a sentence?' checklist, structuring an argument, linking paragraphs. Also great for teacher reference. Zipped PowerPoint file. 27 screens. 450K

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*The Importance of Punctuation useful handout with definitions and examples of common punctuation marks (for E2-L1), a really clever and fun re-writing exercise, cloze exercise, comprehension and more. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 8 pages. 90K. 

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*Nouns is a wonderful 22 screen PowerPoint all about common and proper nouns, and when to use capital letters.  Contributed by Imogen Stewart, Stafford College, i.stewart@staffordcoll.ac.uk who was inspired to create this 'virtual shopping bag' resource by Jo Williams' 'Shopping Bag Capital Letters' and Margaret Lagoyianni's 'Capital Letters'. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 320K.

PDF *The Commonwealth: great set of resources for E3/L1 literacy and ESOL. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 page. 20K.

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*Shopping Bag Capital Letters is a really refreshing way to introduce or reinforce previous work on capital letters. 3 pages. 64K. Contributed by Jo Williams, jlwilliams@talk21.com who adapted the idea from Margaret Lagoyianni's 'We need capital letters' (below).

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*We need to use CAPITAL LETTERS. Wonderful handout and series of differentiated worksheets for E1-L1. With topical news items, work related activities and full curriculum links. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni,margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 8 pages. 44K.


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Writing –  Entry Level 3 – Word Focus (Spelling and Handwriting)

Ww/E3.1 spell correctly common words and relevant key words for work and special interest

(a) know and understand their own preferred strategies for extending spelling competence, including personal strategies for memorising spellings
(b) understand the importance of cumulative learning in spelling, of relating new to known spellings
(c) know that there are dictionaries specifically for spelling, and understand that ordinary dictionaries can be used to check spellings if the initial letters are known
(d) understand that some special-interest texts have glossaries of terms which can be used as reference for spelling as well as meaning
(e) understand that a computer spell-checker is of limited use until the user can judge how appropriate the suggested corrections are for the sense
  • Spell correctly key words relating to their work routines, leisure and study.

Ww/E3.1 sub-sections 

  General spelling strategies / practice, letter patterns and mnemonics Contextualised spellings (film, football, brickwork, hairdressing,  etc.)  
  Dictionary work Crosswords and other word games (inc. Christmas)  
  Confusables Cloze exercises  

General spelling strategies and practice. Mnemonics.

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Spelling techniques in an incredible collection of strategies for all levels. This huge resource is split into 3 sections. A six page comprehensive handout on spelling techniques (E3 upwards), a "Spelling for Me" worksheet  where students are encouraged to try out different strategies and record their results, and a set of 19  different strategy pages (to be laminated) each with tasks for students to test out the strategy.  Contributed by Jill Machin, Devon Adult & Community Learning, JillxMachin@aol.com 100K. 28 pages.

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More spelling mnemonics is another addition to our ever-growing collection. 18 mnemonics inc old favourites and some unusual ones (heirloom, penguin.) Contributed by F Boorman. 1 page. 15K

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Mnemonics quiz not only tests students' knowledge of common (and less-common!) spelling mnemonics but also helps them discover and remember new ones. 28 mnemonics  - students must work out the spelling (28 at once might be rather overwhelming but the quiz can be easily split into three sections). Contributed by James Carroll, Hartcliffe and Withywood Ventures, jameschwv@yahoo.co.uk 4 pages. 250K

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20 spelling mnemonics is a handy one page reference sheet that covers old favourites (e.g. because, necessary, hear) along with some new twists I have not seen before (e.g.  grateful, disappear, believe and measurement). Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk 1 page. 30K

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Spelling mnemonics is a huge list collected by Stella Jales (Wiltshire College) and her students. Includes spellings for all levels (from 'said' to 'accommodation'). Contributed jalesa@wiltscoll.ac.uk 3 pages. 50K.

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7 Words of the week (replaces our previous 'Wonderful' 1 screen PPT) your students will never look at these words - swim, wonderful, capital, answer, question, postcard and stamp - in the same way again! Used as starter or plenary activity in an Entry 3- Level 2 literacy class. Each screen has a type-in box and animations and is ideal for use with a data projector and a cordless keyboard. Each screen focuses on different aspects of the 'word of the week' - it could be word classes, suffixes, origins, spelling tips, etc. PLEASE read notes within the PowerPoint for teaching ideas and download the PDF below which contains details of 30 further words. 8 screens. Zipped PPT 450K.

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30 Words of the week and related speaking activity - lots of ideas here for themed Word level starters. Give your lessons a longitudinal structure and improve students' dictionary, speaking, spelling and vocabulary skills in small steps across the academic year. Originally used in a series of 30 lessons in a mixed ability classes (E3-L2)With suggestions for further resources and shared texts, related words, revision, spelling tips, and end of term /plenary speaking activities and more. 10 pages. 400K.
PDF Literacy revision. Designed as an end of year activity for an Entry 3 - Level 1 literacy class at Abingdon and Witney College. Use as individual worksheets, a group class exercise, paired work, homework or a quiz. Most questions are based on ‘Words of the Week’. These are words that had been focused upon in various classes throughout the year.  Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes Student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com 3 pages. 190K.

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Make your own mnemonic is a handout or poster suitable for all spelling levels. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 1 page. 25K

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Preposition flashcards 49 slides to use as needed for spelling and vocabulary practice with ESOL and Literacy students. Could also be printed out (for example, 6 to a page) and used as traditional card flashcards. Contributed by Bena, bena@sellyoak.bham.sch.uk  Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 49 slides. 600K.

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Spelling strategies - an excellent mind map summarising spelling strategies, useful for revision and prompting discussion with E2 -L2 learners. Contributed by Joy Collins, New College, Telford. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file (1 screen). 130K.

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Two great mindmaps for visual / picture thinkers. One shows you how to mindmap, the other summarises spelling strategies. Contributed by Nikki Brown, additional support tutor from Cornwall College, St Austell nikki.brown@st-austell.ac.uk. 3 pages. 80K.

Dictionary and vocabulary work

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Dictionary Challenge. Wonderful team game for E3-L2 that provides good practice for students in spelling, group discussion and using dictionaries. Contributed by Angela Kennedy-Lockwood,  Birmingham itamalone82@hotmail.co.uk 9 pages. 45K.

Confusables

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What or Want? was written for an ESOL student who confuses these two words in his writing but suitable for E2-3 or dyslexia support at any level. Includes a wide selection of exercises and tips. Contributed by Janet Chapman, The Friary Community Education Centre, Cardiff Thank you Janet. 5 pages. 50K

PDF When or Went? was written for students who confuse these two words in their writing. Suitable for E2-3 or dyslexia support at any level. Includes a wide selection of exercises and tips. Contributed by Janet Chapman, The Friary Community Education Centre, Cardiff janetchapman19@hotmail.com  5 pages. 20K

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Homographs has a clear handout about 'bat' and a practice sheet on 'bow' and 'scales'. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 120K

PDF Homographs. A great handout to help with spelling and 'working out the meaning of unfamiliar words'. Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes PGCE student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. 3 pages. 200K

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Which is witch? Useful handout with definitions and examples of homonyms, homophones and homographs. Great for promoting discussion and also for teacher reference. Contributed by Neil Hardy n.hardy@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 1 page. 60K

Contextualised spellings

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Construction word puzzles make excellent fill-ins or introductions to key vocabulary. 1 wordsearch, 1 crossword. Contributed by Ginny Anderson.  50K. 3 pages. Also filed under Contextualised resources - construction.

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Brickwork: spelling key vocabulary. Spot the misspelled words and see if you can correct them. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 20K. 2 pages. See also our contextualised resources

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Film spellings helps students put 20 spellings in context and makes them more interesting and easier to learn. Contributed by Karen Bruin. 2 pages. 15K

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Important spellings for hairdressers is a useful practice list that can be kept in students folders. Contributed by Debbie Hulse, Cannock Chase Technical College, 1 page. 16K. Also listed under contextualised resources.

PDF Keywords for brickwork provides 2 sets of keywords to learn using look, cover, write check. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk  2 pages. 20K. See also our contextualised resources section.

Crosswords and other word games

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Word pyramids are fun word games that provide good spelling and vocabulary practice. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College.  3 pages. 35K

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Making words from 'friends' and 'reading' - two classic word games with suggested answers. For individual or group challenges. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Ed College.4 pages, 20K

PDF Christmas crossword. Great end of term spelling and vocabulary activity for Entry 3 upwards. Links provided for further research on some of the clues. Contributed by Margaret Adams (Brighton University and the Kenward Trust) uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 3 pages. 120K.

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Christmas songs and carols word find puzzle makes a great end of term reading and spelling activity. Another great Christmas crossword from Margaret Adams, Kenward Trust / Uckfield Community College uckfield@kenwardtrust.org.uk 2 pages. 60K

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Words from Happy Christmas. Timeless spelling and vocabulary game with answer grid and sample answers. Contributed by Lorraine Halley lorrhalley@aol.com 2 pages. 60K.

Cloze exercises

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Adjective cloze exercise - lovely picture cloze exercise for E2-E3. Contributed by Emma Scotland, Bradford Council, emma.scotland@bradford.gov.uk 2 pages. 140K.

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Adjectives cloze v2 exercise to be used in conjunction with the accompanying PowerPoint (below). Contributed by Moira Garland m.garland@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 2 pages. 150K. Please note this resource is adapted from an original worksheet by Emma Scotland.

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Adjective cloze PowerPoint makes a great group starter and can be followed by the accompanying printable worksheet (see above). Contributed by Moira Garland m.garland@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 1 screen. Zipped PPT file. 85K. Please note this resource is adapted from an original worksheet by Emma Scotland.

Back to top (main Entry 3 Literacy index)

Ww/E3.2 Use developing knowledge of sound/symbol relationships and phonological patterns to help spell a greater range of words and longer words

(a) understand that knowing spelling patterns (e.g. common letter strings, visual patterns, analogies) reduces the chances of random errors.
(b) there is not always a strict sound -symbol association in spelling e.g. silent letters
(c) how segmenting words into phonemes and breaking them into syllables (beats) or components (compounds) helps work out spelling.
  • Apply strategies for working out the likely spelling of words in their own writing from their knowledge of rules and patterns.

Ww/E3.2 sub-sections

  General spelling strategies / practice, letter patterns and mnemonics Syllables  
  Compound words Word roots, prefixes, suffixes (inc plurals) and related spelling rules  
  Silent letters Common letter patterns and phonics crosswords  

General spelling resources

PDF

30 Words of the week and related speaking activity - lots of ideas here for themed Word level starters. Give your lessons a longitudinal structure and improve students' dictionary, speaking, spelling and vocabulary skills in small steps across the academic year. Originally used in a series of 30 lessons in a mixed ability classes (E3-L2)With suggestions for further resources and shared texts, related words, revision, spelling tips, and end of term /plenary speaking activities and more. 10 pages. 400K.

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7 Words of the week (replaces our previous 'Wonderful' 1 screen PPT) your students will never look at these words - swim, wonderful, capital, answer, question, postcard and stamp - in the same way again! Used as starter or plenary activity in an Entry 3- Level 2 literacy class. Each screen has a type-in box and animations and is ideal for use with a data projector and a cordless keyboard. Each screen focuses on different aspects of the 'word of the week' - it could be word classes, suffixes, origins, spelling tips, etc. PLEASE read notes within the PowerPoint for teaching ideas and download the PDF below which contains details of 30 further words. 8 screens. Zipped PPT 450K.
PDF Literacy revision. Designed as an end of year activity for an Entry 3 - Level 1 literacy class at Abingdon and Witney College. Use as individual worksheets, a group class exercise, paired work, homework or a quiz. Most questions are based on ‘Words of the Week’. These are words that had been focused upon in various classes throughout the year. Contributed by Penny Halliday, Oxford Brookes Student and volunteer literacy tutor, pen.halliday@btinternet.com. 3 pages. 190K.

Compound words

tarsia fjsw

Compound word match is a 16 piece triangular jigsaw puzzle where pairs or small groups of learners must the correct parts to create compound words.  Use as an ice breaker  or plenary activity. Guaranteed to create promote discussion as learners solve puzzle (which should be printed and laminated). Created with Tarsia Formulator (see Useful Links page for further details) which is available for free download. Tarsia can make card matches, dominoes or jigsaws; all saved as custom Tarsia (fjsw) files. 10K

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Compound word pairs is a page from our 'Compound Word Activities' (13 pages - still available here) resource that has been improved with clearer graphics clues by site user, Karen. 1 page. 40K.

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Happy Holidays is a 14 screen presentation that was used and created during a series of 8 x 2 hour lessons. DO NOT USE IT ALL AT ONCE - and please read the notes underneath each slide! Start by looking at postcards. Then learn about compound words and write a group postcard (followed by individual ones). Move on to look at adjectives and the persuasive language of holiday advertisements (inc. working out unfamiliar vocabulary) and finish by writing your own hotel adverts. Please also download the related PDF file which includes writing frames, planners and posters. Zipped PPT 600K.

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Individual compound word activities and worksheets to help help with decoding, spelling, dictionary and vocabulary work. Ideal for use with our related Themed compound word games (see below). 9 worksheets (plus answer pages) including - matching, cloze exercises, word search, weather report and much more! 13 pages. 400K.

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Themed compound word games to help help with decoding, spelling and vocabulary work. Match the words to make new compound words and find the secret theme! Three game options plus a separate whole class game. Very popular with my Entry 3 - Level 1 students! 10 pages. 140K.

Silent letters

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Overview document for Syllables Millionaire and Silent Letter Scrabble. Both contributed by Dave Walkden, Duchy College Cornwall.  dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk 1 page. 26K.

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Silent letter Scrabble helps students practice spelling and recognising words with silent letters. Comes with a PDF (8K) word list (best used as an OHT) and a Word template (27K) to make your own letter game tiles.  For instructions and background information please also download the PDF overview document above. Ww/E3.2 Thank you Dave.

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Syllables

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Omelette syllables is a nice introduction to using syllables to help with decoding and spelling. Contributed by Tricia Egginton, Adult Education Centre, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath. 2 pages. 40K. Also filed under contextualised resources - catering.

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Syllables Millionaire is a great PowerPoint game in the "Who wants to be a Millionaire" format including embedded sound. Adapted from a version by Tony Baldwin of the Department of Technology Services, Cascade Union Elementary School, US in May 2000. Focuses on the use of syllables as a spelling aid - with graduated questions. The file can easily be edited in PowerPoint and used to check learning at the end of any literacy or numeracy topic that lends itself to a quiz format. 62 screens. Zipped PowerPoint (ppt) file. 250K. For instructions and background information please also download the PDF overview document above. Thank you Dave.

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World Cup Syllables Learn how to count syllables and use this to help spell a great selection of World Cup vocabulary. 35K. 2 pages. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Ww/E3.2

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Super League Syllables shows you how to count syllables and use this to help spell Super League team names. Contributed by Gill Gallagher, Barnsley College g.gallagher@barnsley.ac.uk 2 pages. 70K. 2 pages

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Open and closed syllables and how they can help you with spelling. Contributed by Karen. 2 pages. 15K

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Rugby World Cup 2007 Syllables Learn how to count syllables and use this to help spell a great selection of World Cup vocabulary. 35K. 2 pages. Contributed by Janet Kinsey, Abingdon and Witney College, janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk (Note: Janet's Football World Cup 2006 syllables is still available)

Root words, prefixes, suffixes (inc plurals) and related spelling rules

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Plurals covers both regular and irregular plurals (10). Easy edited if you want to add your own words. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College.  250K Please note you must have the Smart notebook software VERSION 10 installed on your computer in order to open, view and use this resource http://smarttech.com/ - further help downloading notebook files here.

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The Cardigan is a set of professionally written resources based on the popular reader from New Leaf Books.  Includes imagery, speaking & listening, symbols, spelling (changing y to an i) and memory skills. Encourages readers to get the most out of the book. Contributed by New Leaf Books. 6 pages. 160K.  

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Plurals - adding S to words ending in Y is a series of differentiated activities based on two sets of word cards and five associated worksheets. A great way to tackle this perennial  spelling difficulty. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 8 pages. 140K. Lit Ww/L1.1 Ww/E3.2

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Verb endings. Editable online Word worksheet. Explore various sites to practice adding -ed and -ing suffixes and investigate irregular past tense verbs. Uses the Guide to Grammar and Writing and English Zone.

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The suffix ING clearly explains the various rules for adding this suffix to single and multi-syllable words. With practice worksheets and a multi-sensory card sort. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 6 pages. 35K

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Teaching ideas for using our popular word maps. Lots of ideas for using our Word Root and Letter String Maps in creative and multi-sensory way! 2 pages. 90K. Note: these word maps are available:  Port   Spect   -eigh-  Clean  -augh-

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Word root 'port' (to carry) word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration!. 30K

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Which Suffix -cian -ssion, sion or tion? is an extensive 13 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), spelling rules, writing sentences, vocabulary, adding and removing suffixes and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for using as a multisensory resource.

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Add -ing: straightforward, very useful practice adding -ing to verbs. Contributed by Jannette Twoomey jannettet2004@yahoo.co.uk City of Bristol College and Filton College. 1 page. 20K.

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Adding suffixes er or ar to make nouns is a huge 15 page resource that has had a major facelift. Covers parts of speech (nouns and verbs), imperatives, spelling rules, words with more than one meaning, spelling strategies and much more. With extensive teaching notes, student aims sheet, and ideas for contextualisation and using as a multisensory resource. 150K

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Word root 'spect' - word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration!. 25K