Adult Basic Skills Resource Centre - Home Measure, Shape and Space Resources for Adult Basic Skills Students

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Measures, Shape and Space RESOURCES INDEX   page last updated 30/07/10

General measure resources that cover a range of curriculum levels and/or elements and do not neatly fit into a single slot.

Common Measures

Shape and Space

Entry 1 MSS1/E1 E1.1 money E1.2 days, seasons
E1.3 size E1.4 length E1.5 weight E1.6 capacity
Entry 1 MSS2/E1 E1.1 2D & 3D shapes
E1.2 positional vocabulary
Entry 2 MSS1/E2 E2.1  E2.2 money E2.3  E2.4 months, dates, time
E2.5 length E2.6 weight E2.7 capacity E2.8 temperature
E2.9 reading scales E2.10 measuring instruments
Entry 2 MSS2/E2 E2.1 E2.2 2D & 3D shapes
E2.3 directions
E2.4 right angles
Entry 3 MSS1/E3 E3.1  E3.2 money E3.3 time
E3.4 distance E3.5 length E3.6 weight E3.7 capacity
E3.8 suitable units & instruments E3.9 temperature
Entry 3 MSS2/E3 E3.1 2D & 3D shapes, symmetry
E3.2 perimeter
E3.3 directions (4 compass points)
Level 1 MSS1/L1 L1.1 + - x ÷ money L1.2 L1.3 time, timetables, units of time
L1.4 L1.5 length, weight, capacity,  temperature, distance
L1.6 L1.7 +, -, & convert between units in same system
L1.8 L1.9 L1.10 perimeter, area, volume L1.11 scale diagrams
Level 1 MSS2/L1 L1.1 angles, tessellation, symmetry
L1.2 2D & 3D shapes
L1.3 directions (8 compass points)
Level 2 MSS1/L2 L2.1 convert currency L2.2 calculate with time
L2.3 L2.4 length, weight, capacity, distance temperature
L2.5 L2.6 convert measures in same\different systems
L2.7 L2.8 perimeter & area of regular\composite shapes L2.9 volume L2.10 scale drawings
Level 2 MSS2/L2 L2.1 2D representations of 3D - contour lines, nets, etc.
L2.2 2D shapes, parallel lines
L2.3 reflection and rotation
L2.4 directions using angles

 HELP: read this section if you are new to the site or unfamiliar with the adult numeracy 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 to specific levels of MSS1/2 (measures, shape & space) in the Adult Numeracy Core Curriculum (England). To find resources for other areas of the curriculum (number, data handling) click here.  If you can't find the resource you need - please contact Maggie for help. The original 2001 printed version of the adult numeracy 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).

MSS1/E2.3 Read and record time in common date formats The deep blue section gives the curriculum level and element number. 
MSS1 = common measures. E2 = level Entry 2.
(a) know the months of the year in words and abbreviated forms The medium blue 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) know the months of the year in their numbered sequence (i.e. March is the third month)
(c) understand UK convention of writing the date in order of day, month, year.
  • Compare today's date written in different media publications, e.g. newspapers, Teletext, computers, mobile phones.

  • Match the months in words to their abbreviations.

  • Write key personal dates, e.g. a learner's date of birth, the dates of birth of family members.

  • Match dates written in different formats, e.g. 6/3/09, 6 March 2009, 6 Mar 09, 06/03/09.

  • Compare and discuss different ways of writing 'sell by' and 'use by' dates on food labels or pharmaceutical products.

  • Select 'Insert: Date and Time' on Word and compare the different ways of writing today's date.

  • Be aware of different conventions used abroad, with particular reference to overseas websites, e.g. the American way of writing 4 July as 7/4.

The pale blue 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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Holiday dates is an unusual challenge where the special dates/celebrations (e.g. Diwali, St Patrick's Day, Queen's birthday, Easter, etc.) must be matched to the correct month/s of the year. With research links. Contributed by Michael Garen. 2 pages. 40K

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. 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.
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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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MSS - General Resources for a range of levels and / or curriculum elements
Functional Maths tasks and investigations that cover multiple levels and include assessment of common measures

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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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World Cup Functional Maths and numeracy tasks is a wonderful selection of tasks suitable for E2-L1. Includes: extracting information from tables, money, fractions &  percentages, averages, rounding, large numbers, time/dates and general problem solving. Fully mapped to Functional Maths (FM) with extra teaching ideas for FM process skills. 13 pages. 140K. Contributed by Maudine Morris, maudine.morris@boltoncc.ac.uk Bolton College. Also filed under Topical resources

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L1-2 Eurovision Functional Maths / numeracy assignment is a great set of topical questions covering whole numbers, rounding, ratios, fractions, %s, volume, converting currency and data handling. There is a particular emphasis on working with large numbers. Provides useful revision at any time of year. 40 questions but these are not multiple  choice. There is plenty of space for showing working-out and it is fully mapped to L1-2 Functional Maths. Contributed by Carrie Bray, Northampton College. Thank you Carrie. 9 pages. 120K. Also filed under topical resources

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Functional Maths L1-L2 Fitting a Bathroom is a great set of tasks covering using plans/scale drawings, calculating area/volume, finding the best bargains and much more. Fully mapped to FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 4 pages. 50K. Also filed under Contextualised - plumbing

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Redecorating L1 Functional Maths (FM) tasks is a great way to practice L1 measure, area and estimating skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Scaffolding is provided for individual tasks to help build the skills required for functionality. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L1 FM. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 120K. Contextualised resources - painting and decorating.

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Stash the Cash is a wonderful dice game that will also improve  money skills (addition, subtraction ) and awareness of negative numbers. Plus extension L2 statistics questions. Ideal for work skills students. Fully mapped to L1 Functional Maths criteria. Contributed by Andy Morrell, andy.morrell@brynmelyncare.com  5 pages. 60K.

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E3-L2 Functional Maths Kitchen Project is a great set of task. Task 1 is based on fitting out a kitchen and involves scale diagrams, measures, money, VAT and more. Task 2 is based on commercial office rental prices. Fully mapped to FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College.  6 pages. 70K. Construction and carpentry Catering

Seasonal measure activities, investigations and projects (that cover multiple levels)

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Snow Maths provides topical practice with L2-L2 number and measure skills (plus a few at E3) and would make a good starter or homework activity. Most questions are based on recent data from the Big Freeze of January 2010.  Topics include converting temperatures, ratio & proportion, negative nos. and more. Contributed by Judith White. Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 20K. Also suitable for underpinning L1 and L2 Functional Maths

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45 Christmas Maths Questions is wonderful set of questions aimed at E3-L1 (with some questions slightly lower/higher). There is a good mix of straightforward maths and light-hearted Christmas problem solving - making this ideal for underpinning Functional Maths. Topics include whole numbers, fractions, data (tallies, averages), money and measures. Contributed by Carrie Bray, Northampton College. 8 pages. 150K

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Christmas Star template was designed to accompany Sarah Horsley's "How to Make a Christmas Star" resource (below) and makes the folding and cutting process easier - ideal when using Sarah's resource in a family learning situation. Contributed by Bryan Fitzpatrick bryan.fitzpatrick@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College.  1 page. 20K

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How to make a Christmas Star is a fabulous set of illustrated instructions. Makes a great activity for literacy and numeracy classes (reading instructions, measuring, shapes, etc.) at many levels. Contributed by Sarah Horsley sarah.horsley@croydon.ac.uk  Croydon College.  6 pages. 260K

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12 days of Christmas is a lovely seasonal problem solving task with extension questions  (number, measures, money) based on the total number of gifts delivered over the 12 day period! Ideal for mixed ability groups (E2-L1). Contributed by Tony Jenkins, Newscastle-under-Lyme College. 4 pages. 60K. Also filed under topical resources.

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Numeracy over the Christmas holiday. Keep your students' skills going during the Christmas break with these ideas. 1 page for Entry level, one for levels 1/2. Covers number, measures, shape and space, and data. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 2 pages. 30K. 2 pages.

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Numeracy during the summer. Keep your students' skills going during the summer break with these ideas. 1 page for Entry level, one for levels 1/2. Covers number, measures, shape and space, and data. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 2 pages. 40K. 2 pages.

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Love Hearts numeracy investigation / assessment. Use as a fun investigation and/or a more formal assessment. - especially good near Valentine's Day.  Ideal for mixed ability groups as covers skills from Low E2 - E3- High L1. Covers estimating, measuring, rounding, data handling (bar charts, averages, pictograms), decimals, calculator use, problem solving, time, 3D shapes and percentages. With answer sheets. detailed marking boxes for E2, E3, L1 to allow for differentiated assessment, and extra squared sheets for drawing bar charts and pictograms. You will need to one packet of Love Hearts per pair or small group. 8 pages. 120K

Tests, quizzes and assessments that cover general measures

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Practice L1 Numeracy test is a fabulous 40 question practice paper written to provide challenging extra practice after a group of learners participated in a very difficult L1 numeracy test (the levels of the national test certainly do seem to be erratic at times, and definitely harder than when it was first introduced). Unlike the national test, the questions in this test are not multiple choice - making it equally suitable for initial assessment in both L1 and L2 classes. Covers all areas of the curriculum. Contributed by Dave Clapham, Park Lane College, Leeds. 11 pages. 130K.

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L1-L2 Start of term quiz or diagnostic exercises (or use simply to get learners into the swing of things!) includes a wide range of questions covering number, measures and data handling. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 4 pages. 40K

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E1-E3 Start of term quiz or diagnostic exercise (or use simply to get learners into the swing of things!) includes a wide range of questions covering number, measures and data handling. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 3 pages. 60K.

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Maths quizzes is a fabulous set of differentiated Maths quizzes that are great for revision and/or end of term. Three quizzes (E1-2, E3-L1, L2) each with four rounds: quick fire, picture (for which you will need to download the relevant PowerPoint - see left), true-false, and a timed or team round - depends on level. The author has even thought to include tie breaker questions! Everything is included except the bell or squeaky toy needed for the quick fire round! Contributed by Han Dunsterville, Canterbury Colleges h.dunsterville@cant-col.ac.uk 10 page PDF (120K) and three separate zipped PPTs (each approx 300K)

ZIP (E1-2)

ZIP (E3-L1)

ZIP (L2)

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Mental Maths quiz makes a great warm-up or starter activity - covers many aspects of the numeracy curriculum (E3 upwards) plus general knowledge. Originally written when the author was bemused to find that many people did not know how many weeks there are in a year! Keith Ball, Newcastle (Staffs). 1 page. 23K.

Schemes of work and essential tools

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Level 1 Functional Maths scheme of work is a fantastically detailed SoW for 36 weeks. Originally written for construction students but suitable for any vocational area or discrete teaching. Each session is also mapped to the adult numeracy curriculum and includes details of learning objectives, Every Child Matters, assessment of learning, learning activities, and resources. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 8 pages. 60K

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Level 2 Functional Maths scheme of work is a fantastically detailed SoW for 36 weeks. Originally written for construction students but suitable for any vocational area or discrete teaching. Each session is also mapped to the adult numeracy curriculum and includes details of learning objectives, Every Child Matters, assessment of learning, learning activities, and resources. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 10 pages. 60K

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Help sheet for those teaching L1-2 Functional Maths (FM) summarises some of key points and is aimed at those who are switching from teaching Skills for Life adult numeracy to FM. It stresses the importance of the process skills and how these should be considered when using any L1 or L2 skillsworkshop numeracy resource for teaching FM. Also includes handy one page overviews of al the L1 and L2 FM performance skills, and coverage and range statements. Compiled by Maggie Harnew. 6 pages. 50K. Also filed under General Teaching Resources: staff development.

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26 week Numeracy 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 4 pages. 30K.

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Level 1 and 2 numeracy mapped to the Edexcel Foundation GCSE text book. Ideal for adult pre-GCSE maths classes. 7 pages (N1, N2, MSS1, MSS2, HD1, HD2, summary). 70K

Visit our new interactive scheme of work for level 1/2 numeracy. ILP, lesson plans, homework sheets, aural tests: nine new resources (not listed on this page), links to external resources and more. Take a visit and find lots of new ideas.

Excel progress charts showing all the curriculum indicators in any particular level. Each chart 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 these files such as how the Entry level sheets relate to City and Guilds specifications, PLEASE ALSO DOWNLOAD this PDF overview file. All files contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk basic skills tutor at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Cornwall.

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Entry 1 Numeracy. Student progress sheet. 1 sheet. 20K Please also download overview PDF above.

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Entry 2 Numeracy. Student progress sheet. 1 sheet. 20K Please also download overview PDF above.

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Entry 3 Numeracy. Student progress sheet. 1 sheet. 20K Please also download overview PDF above.

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Level 1 Numeracy. Student progress sheet. 1 sheet. 20K Please also download overview PDF above.

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Level 2 Numeracy. Student progress sheet. 1 sheet. 20K Please also download overview PDF above.

Cross-referencing files for the City & Guilds entry level numeracy 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.

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City & Guilds Entry 1 numeracy specs mapped to numeracy curriculum. 4 pages. 86K Please also download overview PDF above.

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City & Guilds Entry 2 numeracy specs mapped to numeracy curriculum. 6 pages 105 K Please also download overview PDF above.

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City & Guilds Entry 3 numeracy specs mapped to adult numeracy curriculum. 7 pages 115K Please also download overview PDF above.

Miscellaneous resources that cover general measures at multiple levels

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Jenga is a hands-on activity that covers measuring, multiplying and 3D shapes (and a quick game of Jenga!). With extension activities for L1 perimeter, area, volume, metric measures and tessellation. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 30K

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Restaurant Bills warm-up covers mental and paper-based money skills from Entry 2 to Level 2. All you need are copies of local food menus (or make up your own on the blank provided). Contributed by Sarah Richards Sarah.Richards@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College. 2 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 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 clichés (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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Planning a Journey. Research and plan a journey for Wales to Italy. Structured, with fill-in boxes for destinations, mode of transport, cost, etc.  Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome. anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 1 page. 45K. Covers many areas of the E3 – L1 literacy & numeracy curricula. Inc: money, timetables, calendars, extracting information, reading strategies.

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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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Illustrated handouts on metric measures with conversion factors and everyday examples of weight, capacity and length. 111K. 4 pages. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire.  Margaret suggests that it makes a good warm up for Dave Walkden's Christmas Pudding Activity.

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Wordle activities for Entry level numeracy - more fabulous word and number cloud activities for E1 (maths words), E2 (odd even nos. and 2D shapes) and E3 (recognise, sort and and order metric measures). With instructions, extension ideas and answer sheets. Wordle is a brilliant Word cloud creator available at: http://wordle.net/  Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College.  8 pages, 400K

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Live the lotto dream version 3 (for Childcare / AoN students) is a great project that covers many L1/2 numeracy elements. You win the lottery, buy a nursery and have to furnish it from catalogues and/or Internet sites. Learn about budgeting, displaying data, 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 Helen Connell, Joseph Priestley College, Leeds who adapted it from the original resource by Dave Walkden, Duchy College, and another adaptation (for hairdressing /beauty therapy students) from Jenny Jupe, Eastleigh College. 6 pages. 230K. Covers many elements. Also filed under contextual resources (Care). Please note: The original resource (buying and fitting out a new flat) and hairdressing version both still available.


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Common Measures - Entry Level 1

General Entry 1 Measure resources

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Entry 1 measure practice test in Edexcel-style. Great for extra practice and revision. 6 pages plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk Thank you Ruth. 7 pages. 130K. Covers many E1 MSS1 (common measures) and MSS2 (shape and space) elements.

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Entry 1 practice assignment A - covers many E1 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for revision and practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 7 pages. 310K.

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Entry 1 practice assignment B - covers many E1 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for revision and practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 pages. 140K.
MSS1/E1.1 Recognise and select coins and notes
(a) know the names and value of coins and notes.
  • Use coins and notes in question-answer sessions, e.g. Give me a 10p, Have you got a five-pound note?, etc.

  • Select from coins to match requirements in practical situations, e.g. £1 coin for a trolley, coins for a parking meter, vending machine, public telephone, etc.

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The problem with money... is a selection of graduated money problems (recognising coins, counting coins, cost of multiple items, change from a £1) where the correct coins must be selected from each picture box. Contributed by Michael Garen. 3 pages. 80K

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Mosses Centre Cafe provides practice working with money at E1/E2 - all based on a beautifully clear cafe menu. Contributed by Stephanie McGill, Bury College stephanie.mcgill@burycollege.ac.uk 3 pages. 40K.

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Magic Money use this series of 7 great work sheets with cardboard, plastic or real money to improve coin recognition skills and making coins up to various amounts. For Milestone 7 to Entry 2. Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Cornwall. 8 pages. 90K.

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Number Bonds - card match and ladder game. Match addition and subtraction problems to correct answers and practise mathematical vocabulary. Then play the Money Ladder game to practise coin recognition, and adding and subtracting to 10/20. 2 versions available (for E2 & E3).  Complete with spinners and ladder sheets. Contributed by Jean Thomas (The Henley College) jean@jeanthomas.co.uk 8 pages. 130K.

MSS1/E1.2 Relate familiar events to times of day, days of week, seasons of the year
(a) understand and use time related vocabulary such as o'clock, midday, morning, afternoon
(b) understand times are repeated in the 12 hr clock and may need to be qualified by morning /afternoon if the context is not obvious
(c) know the days of the week and their order
(d) know the seasons of the year and their order
  • In a group, discuss daily activities and their related times, e.g. favourite TV programmes, class times, getting up, going to bed, mealtimes.

  • Fill in events on a simple day plan marked in hours.

  • Understand the day and time of class.

  • Use the vocabulary of the different days of the week, as well as weekday and weekend to discuss familiar events.

  • Understand terminology such as spring term and summer term in the context of the course or children's schooling.

  • Mark events on a planner for one week.

  • Use TV listings to find out what days different programmes are on.

  • Discuss the seasons in relation to events such as New Year, religious festivals, public holidays, education terms, etc.

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Months and seasons is a beautiful set of worksheets. Learners must match months to seasons and also relate well known festivals and celebrations to each season (there is also a handy overview calendar for 2010). The last two sheets focus specifically on spring (clothes, foods, etc.). Also useful for E1-2 ESOL / Literacy (spelling months of the year). Contributed by Sonia Carroll, City and Islington College sonia.carroll@candi.ac.uk  150K

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Days, months, seasons, dates and calendars is a 14 page booklet providing comprehensive coverage for E1-E3. Includes card matches for sequencing, sorting and matching; six different calendars with questions, and two 'dates' activities. Contributed by Mrs Jennifer Whitehead, Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education.  200K
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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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Days of the week is a 6 page worksheet that combines colourful pages of information (days of week and their order, abbreviations, numbers on calendars) with interactive practice pages (drag and drop and a very clever page where the text changes colour if correct spelling is typed). First used with Entry 1 ESOL - ICT learners but also suitable for E1 literacy and numeracy. Contributed by Cathy Barton, Glasgow Metropolitan College catherine.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk. 6 pages. 160K.

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Questions about days and months. Interactive worksheet with drop down menus to select the correct spelling, no. of days in a month, etc. (Use as a follow on exercise after the  Days of the week worksheet (above). Contributed by Cathy Barton, catherine.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College. 1 page. 110K.

PDF Timeline for a day clever cut and stick activity that is adaptable for all Entry levels. 34K. 2 pages. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk
MSS1/E1.3 Describe size and use direct comparison for the size of at least two items
(a) understand and use vocabulary related to size, e.g. large, small, larger, smaller, smallest
  • Discuss size in relation to familiar objects, or objects in the room. Give statements to describe and compare size.

  • Sort similar objects in order of size.

  • Ask for items by comparative size, e.g. larger/smaller.

  • Use judgement of size when packing or storing things.

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Big, bigger, biggest gives practice in ordering and comparing shape sizes - using big, bigger, biggest and small, smaller, smallest. Contributed by Michael Garen. 3 pages. 30K

MSS1/E1.4 Describe length, width, height, and use direct comparisons for length, width and height of items
(a) understand and use vocabulary related to length, width and height e.g. long, short, wide, narrow, tall; long,  too long, longest
  • Compare the length, width and height of different objects.

  • Discuss the size of the room, using the words length, long, width, wide, height, high.

  • Compare the length of objects with a metre rule and decide if they are longer, shorter or the same length (learners do not have to measure at this level, but this is a useful preparatory activity).

Refer to General Entry 1 Measure section for resources that include coverage of this curriculum element

MSS1/E1.5 Describe weight and use direct comparisons for weight of items
(a) understand and use vocabulary related to weight e.g. heavy, light, heavier, lighter, heaviest
(a) understand that weight is independent of size
  • Compare the weight of two different sizes of the same product, to decide which is heavier or lighter, e.g. large and small bags of sugar or rice.

  • Compare the weights of two objects of different sizes to decide which is heavier or lighter.

  • Compare objects of the same size but with different weights. Decide which is the heaviest and which is the lightest. Put them in order by weight.

Refer to General Entry 1 Measure section for resources that include coverage of this curriculum element

MSS1/E1.6 Describe capacity and use direct comparisons for the capacity of items
(a) understand and use vocabulary related to weight e.g. full, empty, hols more than, holds less than
(a) understand that capacity is a measure of volume (not just how tall or how wide) and that shapes of containers can be deceptive, e.g. broad based and narrow top
  • Discuss capacity, looking at common containers for liquids and solids, e.g. cartons, bottles, cans, jars, etc.

  • Look at containers of different shapes which hold the same amount and check by pouring liquids from one to the other.

Refer to General Entry 1 Measure section for resources that include coverage of this curriculum element


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Shape and Space - Entry Level 1

General Entry 1 Shape and Space resources

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Entry 1 measure practice test in Edexcel-style. Great for extra practice and revision. 6 pages plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk Thank you Ruth. 7 pages. 130K. Covers many E1 MSS1 (common measures) and MSS2 (shape and space) elements.

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Entry 1 practice assignment A - covers many E1 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for revision and practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 7 pages. 310K.

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Entry 1 practice assignment B - covers many E1 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for revision and practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 pages. 140K.
MSS2/E1.1 Recognise and name simple 2D and 3D shapes
(a) know the names of common 2D shapes e.g. rectangle, square, circle
(b) know the names of common 3D shapes e.g. cube
(c) understand that shape is independent of size
(d) understand that shape is independent of orientation (i.e. shape is not fixed in space) and recognise shapes in different orientations
(e) understand the difference between 2d e.g. flat and 3D (e.g. solid, or a container) shapes
  • Identify a rectangle, square and circle from a range of 2-D shapes.

  • Classify objects by shape.

  • Find shapes in curtain or wallpaper designs, clothes, paintings, photographs or examples from nature.

  • Compare the shape of faces of cubes and cuboids of different sizes. What is special about a cube?

  • Identify a cube from a collection of objects.

  • Experiment with drawing common shapes (e.g. different-sized rectangles) in a simple graphics package such as Paint.

  • Recognise the shape of traffic signs and understand that the shape has a meaning.

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2D and 3D shapes is a great set of resources for all levels from E1-L2. Includes info and worksheets, card/matching games and an IT drawing exercise. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 12 pages. 120K

Refer to General Entry 1 Measure section for resources that include coverage of this curriculum element

MSS2/E1.2 Follow directions using everyday positional vocabulary Element amended in the 2009 curriculum update
(a) Use words such as between, inside
Follow spoken or written instructions or directions involving positional vocabulary, e.g. directions to the canteen, where to find equipment, etc.

Also refer to General Entry 1 Measure section for resources that include coverage of this curriculum element

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Positional vocabulary is a useful gap fill exercise where you must select the correct word (above, underneath, etc.) to describe the relative positions of two or more different shapes. Contributed by Michael Garen. 1 page. 50K


Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Common Measures - Entry Level 2
General Entry 2 Common Measures resources

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Entry 2 measure practice test in Edexcel-style. Great for extra practice and revision. 8 pages plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk Thank you Ruth. 9 pages. 160K. Covers many E2 MSS1 (common measures) and MSS2 (shape and space) elements. NOTE: to ensure correct size of scale drawing on page 3 - set page scaling to 'none' when printing this PDF.

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Entry 2 practice assignment - Day Trip to Skegness covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Judith Scullion and Marie Gullick, Level 1 learners at Henley College. Coventry. 7 pages inc answer sheet. 160K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment D -  Trip to the zoo covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds.  7 pages inc answer sheet. 100K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment C -  Going to the match covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 6 pages inc answer sheet. 90K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment B - Trip to London covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 pages inc answer sheet. 200K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment A - Going out for lunch covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 8 pages inc answer sheet. 100K.
MSS1/E2.1 Make amounts of money up to £1 in different ways using 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p and 50p coins.
(a) Know the relationship between coins, e.g. that 50p is equal to five 10p coins
  • Exchange coins for their equivalent value using a number of smaller coins (up to £1).

  • Find the total of a selection of mixed coins.

  • Pay for things by ‘adding on' coins.

  • Count out the exact amount when paying for something, e.g. a newspaper or the correct fare on a bus.

22/05 Interactive activities for Entry 2 Money. Please note these resources run in a web browser and should be installed as follows:

Each resource is a zip folder. Unzip (right click on downloaded file and select 'extract all') the folder to a suitably named folder (e.g. Money 1 or Money 2).

Your new folder will contain questions, images, button and a folder called moneyres (or money2res). Create a shortcut to a  file in moneyres called index.htm

Click on the file (or short cut) 'index.htm' to run the resources. If using on a Network or VLE please contact the author for further information jpd.thompson@btopenworld.com

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The problem with money... is a selection of graduated money problems (recognising coins, counting coins, cost of multiple items, change from a £1) where the correct coins must be selected from each picture box. Contributed by Michael Garen. 3 pages. 80K

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Money 1 is a series of very visual exercises providing excellent practice in making up money to given amounts, giving change, etc. 32 self-marking questions. Contributed by John Thompson, Bournemouth Adult Learning. jpd.thompson@btopenworld.com Zipped web folder. 250K. Please read installation instructions above

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Money 2 provides further Entry 2 practice and includes: 'missing money', making up money, working out change, etc. 22 self-marking questions. Contributed by John Thompson, Bournemouth Adult Learning. jpd.thompson@btopenworld.com Zipped web folder. 100K. Please read installation instructions above

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Money homework. Convert pence to £s, work out cost of multiple items and correct change, make up sums of money with coins. 2 pages. 35K.

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Magic Money use this series of 7 great work sheets with cardboard, plastic or real money to improve coin recognition skills and making coins up to various amounts. For Milestone 7 to Entry 2. Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk at Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Cornwall. 8 pages. 90K.

MSS1/E2.2 Calculate the cost of more than one item and the change from a transaction, in pence or in whole pounds
(a) understand that the same strategies used with numbers can be applied in practical situations using money
  • Use everyday situations to calculate totals and change from different amounts, e.g. two items from the canteen or two bus fares. Encourage a range of mental strategies (see addition, subtraction and multiplication).

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You're in the Money is a adaptation of John Thompson's popular You're in the money (1997) which makes good use of Argos and Littlewoods catalogues. This adaptation  has differentiated task sheets (E2-3, and L1-2) and is ideal for underpinning many aspects of Functional Mathematics including money, odd-even numbers, problem solving, rounding, averages and more; in addition to developing problem solving skills. Contributed by Ruth Read ruth.read@slowdog.vispa.com WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) East Midlands. 6 pages. 40K.

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A visit to the garden centre was written for NCPT horticulture students but ideal for anyone with an interest in gardening. Cover addition. subtraction. multiplication and division of whole number and money. Contributed by Pete Allsop, University of Derby  P.J.Allsop@derby.ac.uk 2 pages. 30K. Also filed under contextualised resources - horticulture. Ideal for underpinning E2-3 Functional Maths.

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The problem with money... is a selection of graduated money problems (recognising coins, counting coins, cost of multiple items, change from a £1) where the correct coins must be selected from each picture box. Contributed by Michael Garen. 3 pages. 80K

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Ordering a curry is a series of differentiated tasks that provide practice with adding up money and sticking to a budget. Contributed by John Michaux, Swindon College johnmichaux@swindon-college.ac.uk 1 pages. 30K

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updated Christmas presents and postage (first uploaded 11/12/2003) provides excellent differentiated assignments (2 each at Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1) using the Royal Mail web site or leaflets (last posting dates, parcel prices). Topics covered include reading tables, weighing, working with decimals and money, using calculators. Contributed by Di Mellor, previously at Darlington College. 7 pages. 100K

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updated (first uploaded 24/05/03) Restaurant Bills warm-up covers mental and paper-based money skills from Entry 2 to Level 2. All you need are copies of local food menus (or make up your own on the blank provided). Contributed by Sarah Richards Sarah.Richards@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College. 2 pages. 70K.

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Mosses Centre Cafe provides practice working with money at E1/E2 - all based on a beautifully clear cafe menu. Contributed by Stephanie McGill, Bury College stephanie.mcgill@burycollege.ac.uk 3 pages. 40K.
PDF Working out change is a colourful two page worksheet providing carefully differentiated questions on giving change. It starts with working out the change for one item from a £ and builds up to giving change for multiple items from £20. The pictures of shopping items could also be laminated for group work. Contributed by Chris McCready, The Gatehouse Centre, Bristol. chrismhwv@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 50K. MSS1/E2.2

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Money homework. Convert pence to £s, work out cost of multiple items and correct change, make up sums of money with coins. 2 pages. 35K.

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Mixed entry level number exercises. 4 very useful work sheets: counting forwards and backwards in two & tens (2 sheets). Number bonds to ten. Mixed everyday addition and subtraction problems (inc. money problems). Contributed by Jean Thomas (The Henley College) jean@jeanthomas.co.uk 4 pages. 30K.

MSS1/E2.3 Read and record time in common date formats
(a) know the months of the year in words and abbreviated forms
(b) know the months of the year in their numbered sequence (i.e. March is the third month)
(c) understand UK convention of writing the date in order of day, month, year.
  • Compare today's date written in different media publications, e.g. newspapers, Teletext, computers, mobile phones.

  • Match the months in words to their abbreviations.

  • Write key personal dates, e.g. a learner's date of birth, the dates of birth of family members.

  • Match dates written in different formats, e.g. 6/3/09, 6 March 2009, 6 Mar 09, 06/03/09.

  • Compare and discuss different ways of writing 'sell by' and 'use by' dates on food labels or pharmaceutical products.

  • Select 'Insert: Date and Time' on Word and compare the different ways of writing today's date.

  • Be aware of different conventions used abroad, with particular reference to overseas websites, e.g. the American way of writing 4 July as 7/4.

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Memory tips for ordering months of the year was written for a dyslexic student but is also very useful for Entry 2 measures, reading and spelling (and dyslexic students at any level). Contributed by Nancy Burn, Nancy.Burn@kenton.newcastle.sch.uk Kenton Technology College

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Holiday dates is an unusual challenge where the special dates/celebrations (e.g. Diwali, St Patrick's Day, Queen's birthday, Easter, etc.) must be matched to the correct month/s of the year. With research links. Contributed by Michael Garen. 2 pages. 40K MSS1/E2.3

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Days, months, seasons, dates and calendars is a 14 page booklet providing comprehensive coverage for E1-E3. Includes card matches for sequencing, sorting and matching; six different calendars with questions, and two 'dates' activities. Contributed by Mrs Jennifer Whitehead, Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education.  200K
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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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Days of the week is a 6 page worksheet that combines colourful pages of information (days of week and their order, abbreviations, numbers on calendars) with interactive practice pages (drag and drop and a very clever page where the text changes colour if correct spelling is typed). First used with Entry 1 ESOL - ICT learners but also suitable for E1 literacy and numeracy. Contributed by Cathy Barton, Glasgow Metropolitan College catherine.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk. 6 pages. 160K.

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Questions about days and months. Interactive worksheet with drop down menus to select the correct spelling, no. of days in a month, etc. (Use as a follow on exercise after the  Days of the week worksheet (above). Contributed by Cathy Barton, catherine.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College. 1 page. 110K.

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Calendars and questions. Large clear calendar for Jan 2006 with 12 accompanying questions. Plus a useful one page 2006 annual calendar which tutors can use to make up their own questions, ask students to circle important dates etc. 3 pages. 45K.

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Time cards 2 sets of cards to laminate. Set 1 (2 lots of 24 cards) covers units of time (E2-L1). Set 2 (30 cards) covers important dates (Christmas Day, etc.) and facts about months and years. To be printed on coloured paper and laminated. 2 pages plus teaching ideas. An ideal multi-sensory starter or revision activity for paired or individual work. 20K.

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Units of time quiz. 16 questions about units of time. Ideal for homework or revision. 1 page. 45K.

PDF 7 times tables  - think about weeks. A great worksheet that cleverly combines measures (time) with 7 times table practice. 34K. 1 page. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk
MSS1/E2.4 Read and understand time displayed on analogue and 12-hr digital clocks in hours, half hours and quarter hours.
(a) understand that analogue clocks can be marked in different ways, e.g. Arabic or Roman numerals, dots, lines.
(b) understand quarter past, half past, quarter to and know the corresponding position of the hands on the clock face.
(c) understand that digital clocks show hours and minutes and know that  :15 on a digital clock is quarter past, :30 half past, :45 quarter to.
(d) Understand and use am and pm New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Read the time on different analogue clock faces, using o'clock, half past, quarter to and quarter past.

  • Read the time on different 12-hour digital clocks, using o'clock, fifteen, thirty, and forty-five.

  • Match times in words to clocks with different faces.

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Telling the Time. Interactive worksheet with 3 pages of colourful information and key vocabulary followed by a 2 page time quiz (whole hours) with drop down menus. Contributed by Cathy Barton, catherine.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College 170K

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12 hr digital and analogue time. 12 useful blank analogue clock faces (with spaces underneath to write time in digital format) and 2 pages mixed problems (analogue to digital and vice verse). 1 page for E2 (nearest hour, half hour, quarter hour), one for E3 (nearest 5 minutes). Note: due to size restrictions this resource does not include answer sheets. 700K.

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Digital and analogue time OHT. Clock face, blank digital cocks, clock hands and lots of teaching ideas. To be printed on acetate. 2 pages. 120K.

PDF Timeline for a day clever cut and stick activity that is adaptable for all Entry levels. 34K. 2 pages. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk
MSS1/E2.5 Read, estimate, measure and compare length using common non-standard and standard units (e.g. metre, paces, cms).
(a) understand that non-standard units are not agreed measures and can therefore vary
(b) understand that standard measures are fixed
(c) know that metres and cms are metric units of length, and have an idea of their size relative to familiar things
(d) recognise and write metre and centimetre in full, and abbreviated to m, cm
(e) know that  1m = 100cm
(f) understand metre and cm divisions on simple scales
(g) know how to use a ruler to draw and measure lines to the nearest cm. 
  • Understand measurements on labels on clothes.

  • Measure the length and width of the room in paces or to the nearest metre. Record and compare results, and discuss the need for standard measures.

  • Use a 1 metre rule, marked in centimetres to show that 100cm is equivalent to 1m.

  • In a group, discuss the best unit (m, cm) for measuring various items, e.g. furniture, doors, windows. Match a list of items to the best unit.

  • Measure items above to the nearest m, cm, 10cm, as appropriate.

  • Estimate and then use a ruler to measure lines drawn on plain paper to the nearest cm.

  • In Word, make sure that the graphics (or drawing) toolbar is displayed. In 'Draw: Grid' select the following settings: 'Snap objects to grid', change horizontal and vertical settings to 1 cm; 'Display gridlines on screen', vertical and horizontal every 1 cm. Learners can now use the gridlines to experiment with drawing lines of different lengths. Alternatively, load a file of drawn lines for learners to measure using the grid.

  • Use a ruler, metre rule or tape correctly, i.e. position of zero

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Jenga is a hands-on activity that covers measuring, multiplying and 3D shapes (and a quick game of Jenga!). With extension activities for L1 perimeter, area, volume, metric measures and tessellation. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 30K

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Measuring length and handling data is a fabulous 19 page booklet providing comprehensive coverage of measuring length at Entry 2 (and above) and cleverly links in with all the Entry 2 data handling  elements by asking learners to record data in tables and bar charts. Includes using non-standard units, estimating and measuring height, using bar charts and tables and interpreting the results, measuring lines, investigations, frog jumping and paper aeroplane races; plus student progress tracker. Contributed by Mrs Jennifer Whitehead, Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education. 200K

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.
PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.

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How to play Battle Ships Step by step PowerPoint guide to playing the battle ships game (contributed by Steph McGill in 2003 - see below). Contributed by Dave Clapham, Leeds anebla999@hotmail.com Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 18 screens. 100K.
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updated Make your own battleships game. Covers estimating, measuring and comparing lengths; perimeters and area. Contributed by Steph McGill, Bury College. 5 pages. 30K.

PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.
MSS1/E2.6 Read, estimate, measure and compare weight using common standard units (e.g. kilogram).
(a) know that a kilogram is a metric unit of weight and have an idea of the weight relative  to familiar quantities, e.g. items of food.
(b) recognise and write kilogram in full and abbreviated to kilo and kg
(c) understand kilogram divisions on a simple scale
  • Use a kilogram weight (e.g. bag of sugar) to compare other weights. Use comparisons such as more than a kilogram, less than a kilogram, about twice as much, etc.

  • Use a simple balance to weigh objects using kilogram weights.

  • Estimate the weights of different objects or items (e.g. packaged foods, washing powder) to the nearest kilo, and check by measuring or reading the label.

  • Be able to use a range of equipment to weigh objects and to know how to set to zero.

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.

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Estimating and measuring weights two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.
MSS1/E2.7 Read, estimate, measure and compare capacity using common non-standard and standard units (e.g. litre, cupful).
(a) understand that non-standard units are not agreed measures and can therefore vary
(b) understand that standard measures are fixed
(c) know that a litre is a metric unit of weight and have an idea of the amount relative  to familiar quantities, (e.g. such as cartons or bottles of milk and other drinks) and to non-standard measures, e.g. more than a cup.
(d) recognise and write litre in full and abbreviated l
(e) understand litre divisions on a simple scale
(f) know that millilitre is a metric unit used for smaller quantities and abbreviated to ml  New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Estimate the number of glasses of water to fill a litre jug or bottle and check by measuring.

  • Compare different-shaped containers that hold a litre, including a 10cm cube.

  • Use different-sized drinks bottles and cans with the labels covered to judge capacities from 1/2 litre to 5 litres. Record the results and check by measuring, or against the label.

  • Use non-standard measures in cooking, e.g. tablespoonful or cupful.

  • Read the capacity of paint tins to buy a required amount.

  • Recognise that medicine is often given in ml and that one teaspoonful is 5ml.

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How much liquid? Fill in table for estimating capacities - great for hands on measuring work. Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 1 page. 100K

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Estimating and measuring capacities two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

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Matching capacities quick matching activity (makes a good starter and would also work well displayed on large screen). Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk  Colchester Institute. 1 page. 50K.

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Smarties investigation - excellent investigation that is also a lot of fun (unless you don't like Smarties!). Covers most HD1 curriculum elements from E1 to L1 along with other elements from N1 (whole numbers) and Measure (estimation). Covers counting, sorting, tallies, bar charts, mean, range and more. 3 pages. 45K
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.
MSS1/E2.8 Read and compare positive temperatures in everyday situations such as weather charts
(a) understand that temperature is a measure of heat (or cold)  
(b) understand that weather temperature is measured in degrees Celsius in the UK (but that different scales exist) 
(c) understand how temperature relates to comfort, e.g. 0°C feels cold New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Look at weather charts in the newspaper, on web sites, and discuss the temperature, using terms like hot, warm, cool, etc.

  • Decide what to wear from the temperature given on the weather forecast.

  • Compare the temperatures in different places on weather charts, e.g. London is warmer than Edinburgh.

  • Compare temperatures in degrees Celsius at different destinations in holiday brochures.

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Reading, recording and comparing body temperature is a paired task that introduced thermometers and reading simple scales. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 80K

MSS1/E2.9 Read read simple scales to the nearest labelled division
(a) understand that scales measure in different units  
(b) understand labelled divisions on different scales 
  • Use diagrams of simple scales to be read to the nearest labelled division (identify what scales learners are familiar with through work or leisure activities), e.g. read a speedometer to the nearest 10mph.

  • Make sure that the ruler is displayed in Word ('View: Ruler'), and that measurements are set to cm ('Tools: Options: General'). Show learners how to enter different Top, Bottom, Left and Right margins in 'File: Page Setup'. Observe effects on text layout and look at measurements on the ruler.

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Reading scales makes a great introduction to this crucial and often difficult skill. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 15K

MSS1/E2.10 Choose and use appropriate units and measuring instruments New element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(a) Know the range of instruments available

Discuss when rulers, tape measures, measuring tapes, bathroom scales, kitchen scales and jugs would be used.

Match measuring equipment to tasks.


Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Shape and Space - Entry Level 2
General Entry 2 Shape and Space resources

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Entry 2 measure practice test in Edexcel-style. Great for extra practice and revision. 8 pages plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk Thank you Ruth. 9 pages. 160K. Covers many E2 MSS1 (common measures) and MSS2 (shape and space) elements. NOTE: to ensure correct size of scale drawing on page 3 - set page scaling to 'none' when printing this PDF.

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Entry 2 practice assignment C -  Going to the match covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 6 pages inc answer sheet. 90K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment B - Trip to London covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 5 pages inc answer sheet. 200K.

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Entry 2 practice assignment A - Going out for lunch covers many E2 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 8 pages inc answer sheet. 100K.
MSS2/E2.1 Recognise and name common 2-D and 3-D shapes (This element changed in the 2009 curriculum update - was previously MSS2/E2.2)
(a) know the names of 2-D common shapes, e.g. rectangle, square, circle, triangle
(b) know the names of 3-D common shapes, e.g. pyramid, cylinder
(c) understand that shape is independent of size, proportion and orientation  e.g. a cylinder can be flat like a table mat or tall like a tin of baked beans (amended in 2009 update)
  • Identify everyday items by shape.

  • Match names to shapes, and identify whether they are 2-D or 3-D.

  • Find shapes in curtain or wallpaper designs, clothes, paintings, photographs, buildings or examples from nature.

  • Experiment with drawing common shapes in a simple graphics package such as Paint.

  • Understand references to the shapes of signs in the Highway Code

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2D and 3D shapes is a great set of resources for all levels from E1-L2. Includes info and worksheets, card/matching games and an IT drawing exercise. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 12 pages. 120K

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2D and 3D shapes gives practice in naming shapes and distinguishing between 2D and 3D objects. Contributed by Michael Garen.  1 page. 50K

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Properties of 2D Shapes. Name each shape and describe its properties. 2 pages. 30K.

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Properties of 3D objects.  Name each object and complete the missing information about faces, corners and edges. 2 pages. 35K.

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*Wordle activities for Entry level numeracy - more fabulous word and number cloud activities for E1 (maths words), E2 (odd even nos. and 2D shapes) and E3 (recognise, sort and and order metric measures). With instructions, extension ideas and answer sheets. Wordle is a brilliant Word cloud creator available at: http://wordle.net/ . Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College.  8 pages, 400K

MSS2/E2.2 Describe the properties of common 2-D and 3-D shapes This element changed in the 2009 curriculum update - was previously MSS2/E2.1
(a) Know the relevant vocabulary for describing 2-D and 3-D shapes, e.g. corner, angle, face, side This sub-element amended in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Complete a table for common 2-D shapes, listing the number of sides and the number of corners of each one. Compare results. Discuss the results for a circle.

  • Complete a table for common 3-D shapes, listing the numbers of faces, edges and corners. Compare results. Discuss the results for a cylinder.

  • Describe the shape of faces of common 3-D shapes.

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2D and 3D shapes is a great set of resources for all levels from E1-L2. Includes info and worksheets, card/matching games and an IT drawing exercise. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 12 pages. 120K

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Jenga is a hands-on activity that covers measuring, multiplying and 3D shapes (and a quick game of Jenga!). With extension activities for L1 perimeter, area, volume, metric measures and tessellation. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 30K

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2D and 3D shapes gives practice in naming shapes and distinguishing between 2D and 3D objects. Contributed by Michael Garen. 1 page. 50K

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Properties of 2D Shapes. Name each shape and describe its properties. 2 pages. 30K.

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Properties of 3D objects.  Name each object and complete the missing information about faces, corners and edges. 2 pages. 35K.

MSS2/E2.3 Follow directions using everyday positional vocabulary This element amended in the 2009 curriculum update
(a) Understand positional vocabulary, e.g. on the left, on the right, above, below, behind
  • Use simple local street plans to practise giving and following directions.

  • Look at a website such as www.streetmap.co.uk and enter your own postcode to find a local map. Describe where you live in relation to a main road, or a landmark such as a school, station, hospital or park. Visit websites such as Google Earth and point out landmarks that you can identify.

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Positional vocabulary is a useful gap fill exercise where you must select the correct word (above, underneath, etc.) to describe the relative positions of two or more different shapes. Contributed by Michael Garen. 1 page. 50K

MSS2/E2.4 Recognise right angles in everyday objects This new element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(a) Know common vocabulary for describing a right angle
  • Use mathematical language to describe a right angle, e.g. square, vertical, horizontal.

  • Identify right angles in the room.

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*Name the right angles. Write your name on the grid, then count the right angles. Plus  a second activity. 1 page. 17K.


Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Common Measures - Entry Level 3
General Entry Level 3 Measure resources

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E3 Easter numeracy assignment is a lovely topical set of questions covering whole numbers, rounding, fractions, measures, shape and space and data handling. Makes a great end of term activity. Contributed by Carrie Bray, Northampton College. 5 pages. 150K.

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Practice E3 numeracy multiple choice test based on the online version available on the Move-On site.  Ideal for revision or assessment purposes. 30 questions. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk  12 pages. 250K

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Practice E3 Numeracy assignment - mobiles is a City & Guilds Style practice paper - 18 questions, many with a mobile phone theme. Covers money, measures, bar charts, estimating and rounding, tallies, fractions, multiplication, division and more. Great for homework, revision or assessment. Contributed by Dave Clapham, Park Lane College, Leeds.  8 pages. 100K

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Revision & vocabulary notes for the new Entry 3 Numeracy test was written for ESOL students with good basic numeracy skills who were taking the new E3 Multiple choice test without attending numeracy classes. However these notes are brilliant for any Entry 3 numeracy student. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk  4 pages. 80K

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Entry 3 practice assignment - Pets excellent practice assignment covers many E3 elements (inc tally charts, bar charts, measuring, money, time, rounding. calculators, division, etc.) in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Rachel Leyland Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  9 pages inc. answer sheet. 115K.

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Entry 3 practice assignment - Internet banking and shopping excellent practice assignments covers many E3 elements (inc tally charts, pictograms, shape and space, measuring, money, time, rounding. calculators, multiplication, etc.) in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Rachel Leyland Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net 8 pages inc. answer sheet. 110K.

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Merry ChrisMaths. Ten Christmas problems make a lovely end of term activity. Aimed largely at Entry 3 and Level 1 number but also includes some questions on measures, time and money. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 1 page. 110K

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Entry 3 practice assignment A - Trip to London covers many E3 elements, in the style of City & Guild assignments - great for homework, revision & practice. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 12 pages inc. answer sheet. 260K.

MSS1/E3.1 Add and subtract sums of money using decimal notation.

(a) know how to align decimal points and figures in column addition and subtraction
(b) know how to enter sums of money in a calculator
For converting between pounds and pence and other aspects of decimal notation to 2 places please see N2/E3.3
  • Enter sums of money into a column in a spreadsheet and format to currency (make sure the software is set to UK settings), and see how the figures are aligned.

  • Write sums of money in columns for addition and find the total cost of items.

  • Practise addition and subtraction using shopping receipts, household bills, price lists, orders for work or pay slips, e.g. check deductions on a pay slip.

  • Cost a small job of work, or work out a budget for the week's spending, using a calculator or spreadsheet.

  • Check bank statements, using a preferred method.

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E3-L1 Payslip questions is a set of 7 questions based on a payslip. Ideal for work skills / personal money management classes. Contributed by Jayne Summerbell, Hereward Collage.  1 page. 40K

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Stash the Cash is a wonderful dice game that will also improve  money skills (addition, subtraction ) and awareness of negative numbers. Plus extension L2 statistics questions. Ideal for work skills students. Fully mapped to L1 Functional Maths criteria. Contributed by Andy Morrell, andy.morrell@brynmelyncare.com  5 pages. 60K.

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You're in the Money is a adaptation of John Thompson's popular You're in the money (1997) which makes good use of Argos and Littlewoods catalogues. This adaptation  has differentiated task sheets (E2-3, and L1-2) and is ideal for underpinning many aspects of Functional Mathematics including money, odd-even numbers, problem solving, rounding, averages and more; in addition to developing problem solving skills. Contributed by Ruth Read ruth.read@slowdog.vispa.com WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) East Midlands. 6 pages. 40K.

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Home and Away flat budgeting is a  practical task where learners must furnish a flat for someone going off to uni.  Contributed by Andrew Case, Intraining Group. Andrew.Case@intraining.co.uk 6 pages. 250K. Suitable for underpinning E3 Functional Maths and includes full Entry 3 FM criteria information.

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Pudsey Collection is a topical and very practical problem solving set of tasks based on a Children in Need collection. Specially written for Entry 3 Functional Maths students and can be easily adapted to suit your own students / charity. Contributed by Anna Lister, annal@lakescollegewestcumbria.ac.uk Lakes College, West Cumbria. 4 pages. 50K

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Working in a charity shop is a practical set of tasks covering place value (writing cheques; counting up in 5s, 10s, 20s; adding up money) comes complete with paper money, paying-in slips and blank cheques. Contributed by Olubunmi Coker, Workfirst (New Deal provider), Nuneaton bunmiifedolapo@yahoo.com 3 pages. 170K Also filed under contextualised resources - employment

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Buying herbs at the garden centre is based on packets of seeds and covers addition and subtraction of decimals (money), range and mean, and scale drawings. Great for horticulture students or anyone with an interest in gardening. Contributed by Susan Brocklehurst S2BROCKL@ccn.ac.uk City College, Norwich. 3 pages. 85K. Also filed under contextualised resources - horticulture. Also ideal for underpinning E3-L1 Functional Maths

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A visit to the garden centre was written for NCPT horticulture students but ideal for anyone with an interest in gardening. Cover addition. subtraction. multiplication and division of whole number and money. Contributed by Pete Allsop, University of Derby  P.J.Allsop@derby.ac.uk 2 pages. 30K. Also filed under contextualised resources - horticulture. Ideal for underpinning E2-3 Functional Maths.

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Money Matters: choosing between addition & subtraction helps learners make sense of problem solving and decide which operation to use. Six varied, multi-step word problems. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 3 pages. 150K

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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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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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Selling DVDs is bound to provoke much discussion about piracy and  profit, alongside useful problem solving practice with adding, dividing and multiplying money. Contributed by Debbie Ellis  ellisd@chesterfield.ac.uk 2 pages. 25K

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Ordering a curry is a series of differentiated tasks that provide practice with adding up money and sticking to a budget. Contributed by John Michaux, Swindon College johnmichaux@swindon-college.ac.uk 1 pages. 30K

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Estimating expenses (Darcy v Wickham!) is a great way to introduce students to estimation and 'what is reasonable'. Contributed by John Michaux, Swindon College johnmichaux@swindon-college.ac.uk 3 pages. 30K

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Lottery Win involves 'budgeting' and research for buying a new car and a luxury holiday from a £100 000 lottery win. Covers addition (money) and large numbers. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 2 pages. 30K

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The New Argos catalogue involves spending a £500 inheritance and comparing the prices in two different Argos catalogues. Covers addition and subtraction (money) and percentage increase/decrease. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 40K.

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The cost of smoking was originally used during a college 'Be Healthy' week but makes a great thought-provoking activity at anytime. Covers addition and multiplication of whole numbers and money, plus working with units of time. Contributed by Trish Bradwell, Colchester Institute, tricia.bradwell@colchester.ac.uk 1 page. 90K.

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updated Christmas presents and postage (first uploaded 11/12/2003) provides excellent differentiated assignments (2 each at Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1) using the Royal Mail web site or leaflets (last posting dates, parcel prices). Topics covered include reading tables, weighing, working with decimals and money, using calculators. Contributed by Di Mellor, previously at Darlington College. 7 pages. 100K

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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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Decimals in the Garden. Great way to practise adding and subtracting decimals. Ideal for any students with an interest in gardening. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 4 pages. 120K and our new contextualised resources section.

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Decimals in the Kitchen. Great way to practise adding and subtracting decimals. Ideal for any students with an interest in cooking. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 4 pages. 110K and our new contextualised resources section.

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Working with decimals: petrol prices & car accessories, multi-sensory activities. Great way to practise adding, subtracting and multiplying decimals. Ideal for Motor Vehicle students and E3-L2 learners that are interested in cars. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 9 pages. 300K. Also listed under contextualised resources.

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updated (first uploaded 24/05/03) Restaurant Bills warm-up covers mental and paper-based money skills from Entry 2 to Level 2. All you need are copies of local food menus (or make up your own on the blank provided). Contributed by Sarah Richards Sarah.Richards@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College. 2 pages. 70K.

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Pounds to pence PPT provides quick practice converting from pounds to pence, and vice versa. Lots of questions pop up allowing learners to solve them at their own pace. Great for a warm up before work on entering money correctly using a calculator. etc. Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk Zipped PPT file. 3 slides. 60K
PDF Estimating the cost of shopping is a great way to practice rounding and adding/subtracting money. Choose a shopping list card and estimate the cost of the bill, then work out the bill exactly. 4 pages - two to be laminated, one is a custom worksheet for recording answers. Contributed by Chris McCready, The Gatehouse Centre, Bristol. chrismhwv@yahoo.co.uk  4 pages. 240K. MSS1/E3.1 MSS1/E3.2

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Money homework. Convert pence to £s, work out cost of multiple items and correct change, make up sums of money with coins. 2 pages. 35K.

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updated Money Place Value Chart: 100's of £s to pennies (first posted April 2001) practical and easy way to introduce decimals / money. One partially completed chart with examples and a blank chart for student to enter their own sums of money. 2 pages. 29K

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Traditional Christmas Pudding maths investigation that involves a trip to the supermarket, scaling a recipe, rounding, estimating and much more! Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk  Duchy College, Cornwall. 1 pages. 15K.

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Revision sheet (and easy to use answer sheet) on addition and subtraction (inc. money). Designed for a group of dyslexic students, but useful for all Entry 3 students. Focuses on number skills along with language/spelling skills. Students are encouraged to use a code so they and their tutor can see which skills they need to focus on.  Contributed by Jean Thomas (The Henley College) jean@jeanthomas.co.uk. 2 pages. 30K

MSS1/E3.2 Round sums of money to the nearest £ and 10p and make approximate calculations

(a) recognise when to round up to the nearest £, e.g. £1.99 is approximately £2.
  • Look at price lists and discuss why so many prices end in 95p or 99p. Write the prices to the nearest £1.

  • Access an online shopping site, and decide what items you would like to buy. Round prices to the nearest £1 and estimate the total cost.

  • Use rounding to work out the approximate cost of items in a shopping basket.

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Estimating practice is a very clear, step by step worksheet that makes a great introduction to this important topic. It's also ideal for underpinning Functional Maths. Contributed by Anne Carlill, Park Lane College. AECarlill@aol.com 3 pages. 80K

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Rounding and estimating is a straightforward but very useful worksheet for Entry 3 - covers money, whole numbers and decimals. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 1 page. 20K.

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You're in the Money is a adaptation of John Thompson's popular You're in the money (1997) which makes good use of Argos and Littlewoods catalogues. This adaptation  has differentiated task sheets (E2-3, and L1-2) and is ideal for underpinning many aspects of Functional Mathematics including money, odd-even numbers, problem solving, rounding, averages and more; in addition to developing problem solving skills. Contributed by Ruth Read ruth.read@slowdog.vispa.com WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) East Midlands. 6 pages. 40K.

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Estimating total cost provides good practice with rounding money and estimating totals. 5 questions for Entry 3. Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College. 2 pages, 150K.

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Autumn apple cake is a wonderful seasonal L1-2 investigation (2 options - one for L1, one for L2) that covers ratios, formulae (oven temperatures, cake tins), converting measures, money and more. Also includes a useful information sheet on autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths - ideal for prompting further discussion re. equality and diversity. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 5 pages. 40K
PDF Estimating the cost of shopping is a great way to practice rounding and adding/subtracting money. Choose a shopping list card and estimate the cost of the bill, then work out the bill exactly. 4 pages - two to be laminated, one is a custom worksheet for recording answers. Contributed by Chris McCready, The Gatehouse Centre, Bristol. chrismhwv@yahoo.co.uk  4 pages. 240K. MSS1/E3.1 MSS1/E3.2

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updated Money Place Value Chart: 100's of £s to pennies (first posted April 2001) practical and easy way to introduce decimals / money. One partially completed chart with examples and a blank chart for student to enter their own sums of money. 2 pages. 29K

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Traditional Christmas Pudding maths investigation that involves a trip to the supermarket, scaling a recipe, rounding, estimating and much more! Contributed by Dave Walkden, dave.walkden@duchy.ac.uk  Duchy College, Cornwall. 1 pages. 15K.

MSS1/E3.3 Read, measure and record time.

(a) understand and use common date formats 'understand and use a.m. and p.m.' has moved to MSS1/E2.4(d) since the 2009 curriculum update
(b) know how to use a calendar
(c) read analogue and 12 hour digital clocks to the nearest 5 minutes
(d) Understand time in the 12-hour and 24-hour clock New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(d) Know that midnight is 00:00 or 0000 and 12:00 or 1200 is midday New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Use a standard calendar to find different days or dates, e.g. the first Saturday in June or May Day, and to record personal information such as a dentist's appointment.

  • Discuss the difference between the 12-hour and 24-hour clock and the different notation for recording time.

  • Match 12-hour and 24-hour clock times.

  • Convert flight departure times in holiday brochures to everyday descriptions, such as half past ten at night.

  • Match the times on illustrations of analogue and digital clocks.

  • Match times in words to clock faces.

  • Look at the date and time settings on the computer.

  • Discuss why times vary in different parts of the world.

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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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Days, months, seasons, dates and calendars is a 14 page booklet providing comprehensive coverage for E1-E3. Includes card matches for sequencing, sorting and matching; six different calendars with questions, and two 'dates' activities. Contributed by Mrs Jennifer Whitehead, Grimsby Institute of Further and Higher Education.  200K

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Analogue clocks provides substantial practice with reading times (to nearest 5 minutes) and then drawing the hands correctly on blank clock faces. Although listed under numeracy this also makes ideal key word reading practice for Entry 1 ESOL. Contributed by Amanda Burgess, WEA (Workers’ Educational Association), Southern Region. 7 pages. 65K

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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.

PDF Fireworks makes a great, topical starter activity for mixed ability groups (E2 - L2).  Suitable for classes on or around bonfire night, Chinese New Year and New Year's Eve. Covers time, problem solving and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 25K.

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12 hr digital and analogue time. 12 useful blank analogue clock faces (with spaces underneath to write time in digital format) and 2 pages mixed problems (analogue to digital and vice verse). 1 page for E2 (nearest hour, half hour, quarter hour), one for E3 (nearest 5 minutes). Note: due to size restrictions this resource does not include answer sheets. 700K.

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Time cards 2 sets of cards to laminate. Set 1 (2 lots of 24 cards) covers units of time (E2-L1). Set 2 (30 cards) covers important dates (Christmas Day, etc.) and facts about months and years. To be printed on coloured paper and laminated. 2 pages plus teaching ideas. An ideal multi-sensory starter or revision activity for paired or individual work. 20K.

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Calendars and questions. Large clear calendar for Jan 2006 with 12 accompanying questions. Plus a useful one page 2006 annual calendar which tutors can use to make up their own questions, ask students to circle important dates etc. 3 pages. 45K.

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Time problems. Everyday questions on reading digital clocks (E3) and more complex L1 questions that involve adding and subtracting hours and minutes to work out lengths of TV programmes, etc. 2 pages plus answer sheet. 65K.

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Digital and analogue time OHT. Clock face, blank digital cocks, clock hands and lots of teaching ideas. To be printed on acetate. 2 pages. 120K.

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Units of time quiz. 16 questions about units of time. Ideal for homework or revision. 1 page. 45K.

PDF 7 times tables  - think about weeks. A great worksheet that cleverly combines measures (time) with 7 times table practice. 34K. 1 page. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk
PDF Timeline for a day clever cut and stick activity that is adaptable for all Entry levels. 34K. 2 pages. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk
MSS1/E3.4 Read and interpret distance in everyday situations
(a) know the units used for measuring longer distances, e.g. kilometres, miles
(b) have an idea of distance in miles, e.g. know what is in walking distance when following directions
  • Discuss the distance from home to work or home to the training centre. Discuss how long distances are measured, e.g. reference to signposts in the UK (miles), and signposts in other countries (kilometres).

  • Understand a distance on a road sign when travelling by car or bus.

  • Discuss how far a learner would walk in 15 minutes or half an hour? In what circumstances would they walk, or cycle, or catch a bus?

  • Provide distances in miles from where you are to nearby places, e.g. towns and cities in the UK. Rank them in order of distance from the local centre.

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It could be you! Great Entry level lottery activity that involves deciding how you are going to spend the money. Structured, with fill-in boxes for expenditure etc.  Contributed by Anne Hodgson, Beechwood College for young adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorder or Aspergers Syndrome. anne.hodgson@beechwoodcollege.co.uk 3 pages. 120K. Covers many Entry Level elements inc: recording information, using a calculator to add & subtract money.
PDF Where did we go on holiday? Is a differentiated whole group (E1 - L2) activity that's ideal for the first class after the summer break. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 pages. 30K.
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.

MSS1/E3.5 Read, estimate, measure and compare length using common and standard units (this element amended in the 2009 curriculum update)

(a) read simple scales to the nearest labelled or unlabelled division, e.g. with two or ten divisions between the numbered points on the scale (this sub-element amended in the 2009 curriculum update)
(b) know that 10mm = 1cm, 1000mm = 1m
  • Suggest appropriate units to measure, e.g. a football pitch, the distance to Birmingham, the length of a curtain, the height of a door, the length of a nail. Select lengths that are within the learner's experience and relevant to it.

  • Practise estimating, measuring and recording lengths in different units, using different measuring instruments.

  • Order lengths in metres in decimal notation. Use a rule or tape to measure out lengths and check the results.

  • Use a ruler marked in millimetres and labelled in centimetres to draw and measure lines of different lengths.

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Postal rates worksheet is a lovely hands-on measuring/weighing/extracting data activity (you will need a  selection of letters and packets) for Entry 3. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 1 pages. 20K.

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Jenga is a hands-on activity that covers measuring, multiplying and 3D shapes (and a quick game of Jenga!). With extension activities for L1 perimeter, area, volume, metric measures and tessellation. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 30K

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Reading scales makes a great introduction to this crucial and often difficult skill. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 15K

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.
PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.

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How to play Battle Ships Step by step PowerPoint guide to playing the battle ships game (contributed by Steph McGill in 2003 - see below). Contributed by Dave Clapham, Leeds anebla999@hotmail.com Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 18 screens. 100K.
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updated Make your own battleships game. Covers estimating, measuring and comparing lengths; perimeters and area. Contributed by Steph McGill, Bury College. 5 pages. 30K.

MSS1/E3.6 Read, estimate, measure and compare weight using common and standard units. (This element amended in the 2009 curriculum update)

(a) read simple scales to the nearest labelled or unlabelled division e.g. with two or ten divisions between the numbered points on the scale
(b) know that 1000g = 1 kg
  • Collect labels from different household packaging and compare the weights.

  • Practise estimating, measuring and recording weights in different units, using different instruments. E.g. weigh ingredients for a recipe.

  • Match familiar items to given weights, e.g. a packet of crisps is 30g, a tin of beans is 415g, a bag of rice is 3kg, a Paracetamol is 1g. Make sure that there is sufficient difference in the weights

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Postal rates worksheet is a lovely hands-on measuring/weighing/extracting data activity (you will need a  selection of letters and packets) for Entry 3. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 1 pages. 20K.

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Estimating and measuring weight & capacity is a useful ICT based online supermarket exercise. Contributed by Carol Smith, West Nottinghamshire College.  1 page. 40K. Also filed under E3 ICT

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Reading scales makes a great introduction to this crucial and often difficult skill. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 15K

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Banana smoothie numeracy challenge  a hands-on practical task where groups of students must measure ingredients accurately (capacity and weight) and come up with a perfect smoothie recipe to be judged by the teacher. Marks are also awarded for an inventive smoothie name and a well written recipe (optional writing frame inc. for learners with Entry literacy skills) plus a detailed mark/feedback sheet. Contributed by Tara Swift, Abingdon & Witney College. Tara.Swift@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 3 pages. 50K.

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.

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Estimating and measuring weights two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

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Burger King Investigation Fabulous statistics investigation that involves extracting information from tables; reading, comparing and calculating with measures; and much discussion about healthy (unhealthy?) eating!  Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.

MSS1/E3.7 Read, estimate, measure and compare capacity using common and standard units. (This element updated since the 2009 curriculum update)

(a) read scales to the nearest labelled or unlabelled division
(b) know that 1000ml = 1 litre
  • Collect labels from different bottles or drink cartons showing capacity in ml or litres.

  • Estimate and check the capacity of different containers for different purposes, using measuring jugs and other containers of known capacity. E.g. can I get a litre of milk in this jug? Can I mix five litres of weed-killer in this watering can? Can I use this saucepan to make two litres of soup?

  • Match items to given measures, e.g. a spoonful of medicine is 5ml, a can of drink is 330ml, a large bottle of drink is 2l. Make sure there is sufficient difference in the capacities.

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Estimating and measuring weight & capacity is a useful ICT based online supermarket exercise. Contributed by Carol Smith, West Nottinghamshire College.  1 page. 40K. Also filed under E3 ICT

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Reading scales makes a great introduction to this crucial and often difficult skill. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 15K

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Banana smoothie numeracy challenge  a hands-on practical task where groups of students must measure ingredients accurately (capacity and weight) and come up with a perfect smoothie recipe to be judged by the teacher. Marks are also awarded for an inventive smoothie name and a well written recipe (optional writing frame inc. for learners with Entry literacy skills) plus a detailed mark/feedback sheet. Contributed by Tara Swift, Abingdon & Witney College. Tara.Swift@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 3 pages. 50K.

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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How much liquid? Fill in table for estimating capacities - great for hands on measuring work. Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk 1 page. 100K

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Estimating and measuring capacities two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

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Matching capacities quick matching activity (makes a good starter and would also work well displayed on large screen). Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk  Colchester Institute. 1 page. 50K.

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Smarties investigation - excellent investigation that is also a lot of fun (unless you don't like Smarties!). Covers most HD1 curriculum elements from E1 to L1 along with other elements from N1 (whole numbers) and Measure (estimation). Covers counting, sorting, tallies, bar charts, mean, range and more. 3 pages. 45K
MSS1/E3.8 Choose and use appropriate units and measuring instruments
(a) know metric units of length, weight and capacity
(b) know which instrument is appropriate for measuring length, weight and capacity of differing magnitude
  • Choose the appropriate instrument from a selection provided to match a variety of measuring tasks, e.g. tape measure, ruler, kitchen scales, letter scales, bathroom scales, measuring jugs, spoons, medicine cap, etc.

  • Look at the different units used in Word, e.g. font size in points, margins in cm. Look at the options available in 'Tools: Options (or Preferences): General' and experiment with different units

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Would you rather...? is a super poster/mnemonic to help  learners remember the difference between kilo- and milli- . It uses a very small and an extremely large cake as examples! Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 1 pages. 50K

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Wordle activities for Entry level numeracy - more fabulous word and number cloud activities for E1 (maths words), E2 (odd even nos. and 2D shapes) and E3 (recognise, sort and and order metric measures). With instructions, extension ideas and answer sheets. Wordle is a brilliant Word cloud creator available at: http://wordle.net/ . Contributed by Dave Norgate, Bromley Adult Education College.  8 pages, 400K

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Banana smoothie numeracy challenge  a hands-on practical task where groups of students must measure ingredients accurately (capacity and weight) and come up with a perfect smoothie recipe to be judged by the teacher. Marks are also awarded for an inventive smoothie name and a well written recipe (optional writing frame inc. for learners with Entry literacy skills) plus a detailed mark/feedback sheet. Contributed by Tara Swift, Abingdon & Witney College. Tara.Swift@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 3 pages. 50K.

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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Which is the best unit? 3 page picture worksheet - student selects the best metric unit to measure given object. COvers length, distance, weight and capacity. Contributed by Jennifer Williamson, Juniper Training, Wolverhampton Thank you Jennifer. jennifer.williamson@junipertraining.co.uk  1 page. 100K

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Practical problems with 3D objects. What can you fit through the letter box and the cat flap? Plus choosing suitable units and naming 3D objects. Great practice for E3 City and Guilds assignments. 3 pages. 100K.

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updated Weight Lotto (first posted 9/6/04). Great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com Now 5 pages with new 'suitable units' game, teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 220K.

PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.
MSS1/E3.9 Read, measure and compare temperature using common units and instruments
(a) know how to read a thermometer 
(b) understand that temperature can be measured on different scales, but that Celsius is the standard scale in the UK 
  • Compare thermometers used for different purposes: clinical thermometers and fever scans for body temperature, weather thermometers, thermometers used in cooking, etc.

  • Practise reading scales on different thermometers, using diagrams if necessary.

  • Look at oven temperatures in different recipes. Decide what is a hot oven or a cool oven.

  • Use Teletext, a newspaper or a website to find and compare today's temperatures (if above 0) in different cities around the world.

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Temperature and weather charts is a great way to introduce negative numbers and temperature in an everyday context. Contributed by Anne Carlill, Park Lane College. AECarlill@aol.com 3 pages. 60K.

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Reading, recording and comparing body temperature is a paired task that introduces thermometers and reading simple scales. Contributed by Jane Kay, Accrington and Rossendale College jkay@accross.ac.uk 1 page. 80K


Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Shape and Space - Entry Level 3
MSS2/E3.1 sort 2-D and 3-D shapes to solve practical problems using properties (e.g. lines of symmetry, side length, angles)
(a) Recognise and name common regular polygons New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(b) Identify lines of symmetry  New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(c) Identify right angles in 2-D shapes and in the environment New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Identify right angles on everyday items, e.g. table, shelves, paper, bricks.

  • Sort 2-D shapes into those with right angles and those without.

  • Sort 3-D shapes into those with right angles and those without.

  • Use paper cut-outs of regular shapes to find lines of symmetry by folding.

  • Sort 2-D shapes according to the number of sides, number of angles, number of equal sides, number of equal angles, number of lines of symmetry.

  • Sketch the lines of symmetry in shapes and images.

  • Investigate ways of stacking 3-D shapes of the same size on a shelf or for a display, e.g. cylinders (cans), cuboids (boxes).

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2D and 3D shapes is a great set of resources for all levels from E1-L2. Includes info and worksheets, card/matching games and an IT drawing exercise. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 12 pages. 120K

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A city of towers is an interactive whiteboard problem solving activity suitable for many levels. Makes a fun starter activity and provides a good link between shape and space and algebra. Can also used as a hands on activity for all (rather than just volunteers at the smartboard) using pencil and squared paper, plastic squares or wooden/plastic cubes. Also makes a good introduction to algebra / patterns from Entry 1 upwards. This resource was inspired by the original at http://nrich.maths.org/public/viewer.php?obj_id=183

Please note you must have the Smart notebook software installed on your computer in order to open, view and use this resource http://smarttech.com/

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.

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Properties of 2D Shapes. Name each shape and describe its properties. 2 pages. 30K.

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Properties of 3D objects.  Name each object and complete the missing information about faces, corners and edges. 2 pages. 35K.

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Name the right angles. Write your name on the grid, then count the right angles. Plus  a second activity. 1 page. 17K.

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Practical problems with 3D objects. What can you fit through the letter box and the cat flap? Plus choosing suitable units and naming 3D objects. Great practice for E3 City and Guilds assignments. 3 pages. 100K.

MSS2/E3.2 Identify the perimeter of simple shapes, e.g. rectangles, triangles New element added in 2009 curriculum update
(a) Know that the perimeter is measured in units of length
  • Discuss the meaning of perimeter and its use in practical contexts, e.g. a cake band goes around the perimeter of a cake, a dado rail goes around the perimeter of a room.

  • Measure perimeter of everyday items, e.g. room, table, book, and choose appropriate units of measure.

 

 
MSS2/E3.3 Follow directions using everyday positional vocabulary  New element added in 2009 curriculum update
(a)  Read a compass using the four main compass points
(b) Know approximate directions from the position of the sun, e.g. the sun rises in the east and sets in the west
  • Discuss the orientation of the teaching room and the approximate direction of the bus station from the training centre.

  • Use simple maps to practise giving and following directions using the four main compass points.

  • Use maps to find a destination, e.g. walk north, turn east.

 

 

Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Common Measures - Level 1
General Level 1 Measure resources including Functional Maths

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Redecorating L1 Functional Maths (FM) tasks is a great way to practice L1 measure, area and estimating skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Scaffolding is provided for individual tasks to help build the skills required for functionality. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L1 FM. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 120K. Contextualised resources - painting and decorating.

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L1 Easter numeracy assignment is a lovely topical set of questions covering whole numbers, rounding, ratios, fractions, volume and data handling. Makes a great end of term activity. Contributed by Carrie Bray, Northampton College. Thank you Carrie. 5 pages. 130K.

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Level 1-2 Functional Maths - measures and scales is a set of real life problems written for construction students but suitable for any L1-2 FM students. Covers area, perimeter, volume and scale drawings. Mapped to the FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 10 screens. 80K zipped PPT file.  Conxtextualised resources - construction and carpentry

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Area, perimeter and volume is a lovely mnemonic poster. Helps learners remember which is which and how to work them out! Contributed by Malcolm Hill, Learndirect/System Training, Carlisle Malcolm.Hill@System-Group.com  1 page. 12K

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Measures portfolio / workbook is a semi-structured set of investigations that would be ideal as an end of topic (common measures) informal assessment for L1-2 students. Covers length, weight, capacity, money, time, area and shapes. Contributed by Carmen Pop, Oxford & Cherwell Valley College. carmen.pop78@yahoo.co.uk  rjwebster401@btinternet.com 11 pages. 60K. The investigative approach also makes this ideal for underpinning L2 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Measures: quick reference cards provide a really useful wallet-sized reminder about metric and Imperial conversions, area., volume and perimeter.  Print back to back, laminate and cut into 12 cards. Contributed by Simon Roper, Coleg Llandrillo. 2 pages. 60K

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Xmas maths quiz provides practice with Level 1 and 2 multiple choice questions in a topical setting - great for playing in teams during the last class of term! Covers number, measure and data. Contributed by Kirstie Benefer, Stoke-on-Trent College. kbene1sc@stokecoll.ac.uk 14 questions, 42 slides.  380K (zipped PPT file). Also filed under Xmas resources

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Revision & vocabulary notes for L1 Numeracy test was written for ESOL students with good basic numeracy skills who were taking the test without attending numeracy classes. However these notes are brilliant for any Level 1 numeracy student. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk 7 pages. 100K. Covers almost all L1 elements.

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Costing-up a nursery is ideal for L2 childcare students studying L1 AoN (Key Skills). Clear step by step directions on what to do - research, calculate, find averages, create a scale diagram, etc. Contributed by Bev Haley, Rathbone, Dewsbury. 1 page. Also filed under Childcare on the contextualised resources page.

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Level 1 Numeracy facts and figures match Tarsia puzzle is 16 piece triangular jigsaw where you must match the facts and figures to the correct definitions / answers. Makes a great revision activity - covers all area of the curriculum. Andrea suggests that as the print is quite small on the standard sized puzzle, tutors might find it helpful to print out the larger version of the puzzle (select Output - large, i.e. three pieces per A4 sheet). Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 10K. Created with Tarsia Formulator (see our Useful Links page for further details) which is available for free download and creates its own custom Tarsia (fjsw) files.

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Merry ChrisMaths. Ten Christmas problems make a lovely end of term activity. Aimed largely at Entry 3 and Level 1 number but also includes some questions on measures, time and money. Contributed by Margaret Lagoyianni, margaretlago2@btopenworld.com County Training, Shropshire. 1 page. 110K

MSS1/L1.1 Add, subtract, multiply and divide sums of money and record

(a) understand place value of whole numbers and decimals up to two decimal places but recognise that money is written either as a whole number or to two decimal places, e.g. £5 or £5.00, but not £5.0 (updated

(b) know that, for column addition and subtraction, decimals should be aligned by the decimal point

  • Price a list of items from a mail-order catalogue and calculate the total cost

  • Select items that can be bought within a given price range or budget

  • Work out the cost of taking a family or a group of people on a bus or train journey, a visit to the cinema or some other outing or excursion

  • Work out the total cost of an item bought using a credit agreement or loan, from the weekly or monthly repayments

  • Organise a 'coffee club' or similar within the group and work out what they need to buy, and how much to collect from each person

  • Use a spreadsheet to work out a personal or holiday budget. Experiment with changes to stay within budget

  • Use a spreadsheet to record expenditure

  • Fill in an expenses claim

  • Calculate benefits or entitlements

  • Check pay and deductions on a payslip

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E3-L1 Payslip questions is a set of 7 questions based on a payslip. Ideal for work skills / personal money management classes. Contributed by Jayne Summerbell, Hereward Collage.  1 page. 40K

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Redecorating L1 Functional Maths (FM) tasks is a great way to practice L1 measure, area and estimating skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Scaffolding is provided for individual tasks to help build the skills required for functionality. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L1 FM. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 120K. Contextualised resources - painting and decorating.

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Stash the Cash is a wonderful dice game that will also improve  money skills (addition, subtraction ) and awareness of negative numbers. Plus extension L2 statistics questions. Ideal for work skills students. Fully mapped to L1 Functional Maths criteria. Contributed by Andy Morrell, andy.morrell@brynmelyncare.com  5 pages. 60K.

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You're in the Money is a adaptation of John Thompson's popular You're in the money (1997) which makes good use of Argos and Littlewoods catalogues. This adaptation  has differentiated task sheets (E2-3, and L1-2) and is ideal for underpinning many aspects of Functional Mathematics including money, odd-even numbers, problem solving, rounding, averages and more; in addition to developing problem solving skills. Contributed by Ruth Read ruth.read@slowdog.vispa.com WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) East Midlands. 6 pages. 40K.

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Level 1-2 Functional Maths lesson plans (planning a holiday) is a set of two detailed lesson plans and sample differentiated active learning plans written for construction students but suitable for any L1-2 FM students. Mapped to the FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 7 pages. 20K zipped PPT file. Filed under Contextualised resources - construction and carpentry. Linked to schemes of work available here and the PPT below.

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Level 1 Functional Maths - planning a holiday is a project outline written for construction students but suitable for any L1 FM students. Mapped to the FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 6 screens. 300K zipped PPT file. Filed under Contextualised resources - construction and carpentry. Linked to schemes of work available here.

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Level 1-2 Functional Maths - problem solving with money and decimals is a set of real life problems written for construction students but suitable for any L1-2 FM students. Covers wages, hire purchase, savings accounts, metric measures, loans, and gas bills! Mapped to the FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 13 screens. 20K zipped PPT file. Filed under Contextualised resources - construction and carpentry. Linked to schemes of work available here.

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Floor plan area and perimeter tasks provides lots of real life style decorating problems. Makes a great introduction to area using the count-the-squares method. Also covers multiplying money (working out cost of tiling, etc.) and ideas for  L2 extension work. Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk 4 pages. 110K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - painting and decorating

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 Autumn apple cake is a wonderful seasonal L1-2 investigation (2 options - one for L1, one for L2) that covers ratios, formulae (oven temperatures, cake tins), converting measures, money and more. Also includes a useful information sheet on autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths - ideal for prompting further discussion re. equality and diversity. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 5 pages. 40K

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Working with money is a complete 2 page lesson plan plus 2 related worksheets and answer sheet - everything you need for a 90 minute session on adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing money (also includes finding range and mean). Focuses on real life practical situations of checking till receipts and pay slips. Contributed by Paul Hanby, Dartford YMCA Thames Gateway South paulhanby@hotmail.com 5 pages. 50K. MSS1/L1.1

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Selling DVDs is bound to provoke much discussion about piracy and  profit, alongside useful problem solving practice with adding, dividing and multiplying money. Contributed by Debbie Ellis,  ellisd@chesterfield.ac.uk 2 pages. 25K

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Planning a party provides useful problem solving practice alongside adding, dividing and multiplying money. Great for revision too. Contributed by Ruth from Manchester.  2 page. 35K. MSS1/L1.1

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Easter Eggs - value for money? is a fabulous L1-2 investigation that covers direct proportion (best buy), and rounding / calculating with money /decimals. Two options are included: students can either research Easter egg and chocolate prices on internet shopping sites or use those given. In both cases they must investigate the cost per 100g chocolate and work out the best buy. Final extension work includes consideration of 'buy one get one free' and 'two for £...' offers.  Also includes a useful information sheet on spring festivals from different cultures and faiths - ideal for prompting further discussion re. equality and diversity. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 4 pages. 30K

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Valentine's Day Quiz has lots of money problems to solve including cost of flowers, Mr Extravaganza's fancy meal out and much more! Contributed by Kate Bone kateb@southwark.ac.uk Southwark College. 1 page. 16K

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Estimating expenses (Darcy v Wickham!) is a great way to introduce students to estimation and 'what is reasonable'. Contributed by John Michaux, Swindon College johnmichaux@swindon-college.ac.uk 3 pages. 30K

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Lottery Win involves 'budgeting' and research for buying a new car and a luxury holiday from a £100 000 lottery win. Covers addition (money) and large numbers. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 2 pages. 30K

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The New Argos catalogue involves spending a £500 inheritance and comparing the prices in two different Argos catalogues. Covers addition and subtraction (money) and percentage increase/decrease. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 3 pages. 40K.

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Mobile phone packages provides practice with multiplying decimals / money - cunningly disguised as an everyday problem! Great for all level 1 students - especially teenagers. Contributed by Gordon Noblett gnoblett@accross.ac.uk Accrington and Rossendale College. 1 page. 35K.

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The cost of smoking was originally used during a college 'Be Healthy' week but makes a great thought-provoking activity at anytime. Covers addition and multiplication of whole numbers and money, plus working with units of time. Contributed by Trish Bradwell, Colchester Institute, tricia.bradwell@colchester.ac.uk 1 page. 90K.

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updated Christmas presents and postage (first uploaded 11/12/2003) provides excellent differentiated assignments (2 each at Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1) using the Royal Mail web site or leaflets (last posting dates, parcel prices). Topics covered include reading tables, weighing, working with decimals and money, using calculators. Contributed by Di Mellor, previously at Darlington College. 7 pages. 100K

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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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Decimals in the Garden. Great way to practise adding and subtracting decimals. Ideal for any students with an interest in gardening. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 4 pages. 120K and our new contextualised resources section.

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Decimals in the Kitchen. Great way to practise adding and subtracting decimals. Ideal for any students with an interest in cooking. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 4 pages. 110K and our new contextualised resources section.

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Working with decimals: petrol prices & car accessories, multi-sensory activities. Great way to practise adding, subtracting and multiplying decimals. Ideal for Motor Vehicle students and E3-L2 learners that are interested in cars. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 9 pages. 300K. Also listed under contextualised resources

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updated (first uploaded 24/05/03) Restaurant Bills warm-up covers mental and paper-based money skills from Entry 2 to Level 2. All you need are copies of local food menus (or make up your own on the blank provided). Contributed by Sarah Richards Sarah.Richards@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College. 2 pages. 70K.

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You're in the money is a resource based on catalogues (Argos and Littlewoods) that works especially well with younger students. 2 versions, differentiated for Level 1 and Level 2. Covers addition and subtraction (money) and percentages. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 4 pages. 40K

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Catalogues or 'How to have a party after a burglary!' provides literacy (insurance letters) and numeracy (adding and subtracting money) practice at level 1 and is ideal for teenage groups who love looking at catalogues. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 1 page. 27K

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Jobs and salaries - a budgeting activity that is ideal for teenagers and will prompt plenty of discussion on the realities of managing money. Comes with salary cards, rent cards, supplementary cards, balance sheets and extra extension sheets on percentages. With full teaching notes and ideas for further customisation. Contributed by Jean Thomas (The Henley College) jean@jeanthomas.co.uk 8 pages. 40K

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Planning a Journey. Use the web sites to find travel / car hire information and accommodation and then work out the cost of your weekend away. A great way to practise written methods and problem solving. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 1 page. 16K.

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Build a wall, re-turf a football pitch are just two of the four 'real-life' task sheets in this great resource. Work out costs and draw a scale diagram. Ideal for class or homework (originally used for Level 1 Key Skills Application of Number portfolio work N1.1, N1.2, N1.3.). 4 pages. 190K. Contributed by Jan Robinson, Chelmer Training janrobinson@chelmer-training.co.uk

MSS1/L1.2 Read and measure time accurately and use timetables effectively (this element amended in the 2009 curriculum update)

(a) read clocks, watches and calendars to measure time accurately New sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update

(b)  understand and use timetables                                                    

(c) know the units of time (millennium, century, year, month, week, day, hour, minute, second) a-e replaced with 3 below

Note: 'know midnight is 00:00 or 0000 and midday is 12:00 or 1200', 'understand time in the 12-hour and 24-hour clock' and 'understand and use common date formats' sub-elements have all moved to MSS1/E3.3

  • Identify the uses of different units of time, e.g. seconds (timings on a microwave oven, sprints in athletics, different processes in a factory), minutes (boiling an egg and other cooking times, times of trains and buses, lengths of TV programmes and films), and hours (working day, car journeys, flights).

  • Use stopwatches, ordinary watches, clocks and calendars to measure, record and compare the time taken to complete different activities.

  • Use bus or train timetables to answer questions such as what time must I leave Cambridge to arrive in London by 10.00? and what time is the last bus home from town?

  • Practise accessing online rail timetables for different dates and different departure or arrival times.

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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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Time cards 2 sets of cards to laminate. Set 1 (2 lots of 24 cards) covers units of time (E2-L1). Set 2 (30 cards) covers important dates (Christmas Day, etc.) and facts about months and years. To be printed on coloured paper and laminated. 2 pages plus teaching ideas. An ideal multi-sensory starter or revision activity for paired or individual work. 20K.

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Time problems. Everyday questions on reading digital clocks (E3) and more complex L1 questions that involve adding and subtracting hours and minutes to work out lengths of TV programmes, etc. 2 pages plus answer sheet. 65K. 

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Digital and analogue time OHT. Clock face, blank digital cocks, clock hands and lots of teaching ideas. To be printed on acetate. 2 pages. 120K.

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Units of time quiz. 16 questions about units of time. Ideal for homework or revision. 1 page. 45K.

PDF 7 times tables  - think about weeks. A great worksheet that cleverly combines measures (time) with 7 times table practice. 34K. 1 page. Contributed by Janet Kinsey (Abingdon and Witney College) janet.kinsey@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Thank you Janet.
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.

MSS1/L1.3 Calculate using time. 

(a) know relationship between units of time e.g. 1hr = 60 minutes

(b) add and subtract units of time in hours and minutes

(c) convert units of time, e.g. 70 minutes is 1 hour 10 minutes

  • Work out the length of a working day or job, using the start and finish times recorded on timesheets or clock cards (including breaks).

  • Work out the number of hours worked in a week and fill in a time sheet.

  • Use bus and rail timetables to calculate journey times from departure and arrival times.

  • Calculate the duration of different activities, e.g. a radio or TV programme, a film, a flight.

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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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Ordering time is a card game where times must be converted (between minutes, hours, days, etc.) and then placed in ascending order. A correct solution leads to a hidden message! Contributed by Jeannette Edwards netty@g7rau.co.uk 1 page. 12K

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Pancakes is a series of challenging questions for Shrove Tuesday. Main topic is ratio and proportion but metric measures, money and time are also covered. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 2 pages. 25K

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The cost of smoking was originally used during a college 'Be Healthy' week but makes a great thought-provoking activity at anytime. Covers addition and multiplication of whole numbers and money, plus working with units of time. Contributed by Trish Bradwell, Colchester Institute, tricia.bradwell@colchester.ac.uk 1 page. 90K.

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Favourite TV programmes & journey times provides realistic everyday practice in adding and subtracting time and converting between hours and minutes. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. Thank you John. 2 pages. 60K.
PDF Fireworks makes a great, topical starter activity for mixed ability groups (E2 - L2).  Suitable for classes on or around bonfire night, Chinese New Year and New Year's Eve. Covers time, problem solving and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 25K.

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Murder at the Grange use this puzzler to reinforce working with time. Makes a great warm-up or plenary activity. Contributed by Brian Harris, b.harris1@ntlworld.com at Stockton Riverside College. 1 page. 13K.

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Time problems. Everyday questions on reading digital clocks (E3) and more complex L1 questions that involve adding and subtracting hours and minutes to work out lengths of TV programmes, etc. 2 pages plus answer sheet. 65K.

PDF The problem solving cycle - strategies for Level 1 problem solving. First designed to help dyslexic students who found questions complicated to decipher, this resource was used at the beginning of sessions to familiarise students with the way questions are worded.  Hints and checking methods, followed by questions to try and extensive tutor notes. Contributed by Jean Thomas (The Henley College) jean@jeanthomas.co.uk 7 pages. 20K

MSS1/L1.4 Read, estimate, measure and compare length,  weight, capacity and temperature common units and instruments

(a) know the standard metric units of length, weight and capacity including abbreviations (km, m, cm, mm, kg, g, l, ml)

(b) read scales to the nearest labelled and unlabelled division

(c) choose and use appropriate units and measuring instruments This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Choose units and instruments for different measuring tasks. Estimate, then measure and read scales to the nearest labelled or unlabelled division.

  • Discuss the different systems used for measurements: metric and imperial units. Produce a list of the different units in use for weight, length and capacity, with approximate equivalencies, e.g. a litre is a bit less than two pints, a kilo is just over two pounds, a yard is a bit less than a metre.

  • Compare temperatures in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit, using everyday sources where both are given, e.g. recipe books, oven manuals, holiday brochures.

  • Discuss how temperature is important in some aspects of life and work, e.g. safe temperatures for frozen foods and settings for domestic freezers, storing chemicals at the right temperature.

  • Check the temperature in the workplace against regulations.

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Redecorating L1 Functional Maths (FM) tasks is a great way to practice L1 measure, area and estimating skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Scaffolding is provided for individual tasks to help build the skills required for functionality. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L1 FM. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 120K. Contextualised resources - painting and decorating.

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Metric bubble revision chart is a colourful mind map hat can help with remembering metric prefixes, metric-Imperial conversions and more. Would also make a good classroom poster. Plus a separate matching game. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 2 pages. 120K.

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Temperature and weather charts is a great way to introduce negative numbers and temperature in an everyday context. Contributed by Anne Carlill, Park Lane College. AECarlill@aol.com 3 pages. 60K.

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Temperature and thermometers is a great set of 'real life' questions, many based on weather statistics from across the world. Covers reading scales, using two scales to convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit, understanding negative temperatures, finding mean average and range, extracting information from tables and bar charts, and plotting data on line or bar charts. Due to the wide variety of skills covered, this makes an ideal end of year revision exercise- as well as neatly covering the temperature elements of the L1/2 curriculum. Contributed by John Wood, BHTS, North Devon College JohnWood@ndevon.ac.uk 6 pages. 100K

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Banana smoothie numeracy challenge  a hands-on practical task where groups of students must measure ingredients accurately (capacity and weight) and come up with a perfect smoothie recipe to be judged by the teacher. Marks are also awarded for an inventive smoothie name and a well written recipe (optional writing frame inc. for learners with Entry literacy skills) plus a detailed mark/feedback sheet. Contributed by Tara Swift, Abingdon & Witney College. Tara.Swift@abingdon-witney.ac.uk 3 pages. 50K.

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updated Christmas presents and postage (first uploaded 11/12/2003) provides excellent differentiated assignments (2 each at Entry 2, Entry 3 and Level 1) using the Royal Mail web site or leaflets (last posting dates, parcel prices). Topics covered include reading tables, weighing, working with decimals and money, using calculators. Contributed by Di Mellor, previously at Darlington College. 7 pages. 100K

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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Posting parcels provides a wonderful realistic and practical task - working out the cost of sending various sized parcels by Royal Mail. Covers weighing, measuring, reading information from tables, awareness of 3d shapes and space, etc. Contributed by Lynn Savage and Judith Ryan,  Bury Adult Education. savageflophouse@tesco.net  4 pages. 60K.

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Estimating and measuring capacities two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

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Estimating and measuring weights two work sheets (one also includes Imperial measures) for a great hands-on 'measures' session. Ideal for mixed ability groups. Kate Hart katy.hart@colchester.ac.uk Colchester Institute (who suggests that you ensure all measurements are securely covered or blacked out to avoid peaking!). 2 pages. 60K.

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Burger King Investigation Fabulous statistics investigation that involves extracting information from tables; reading, comparing and calculating with measures; and much discussion about healthy (unhealthy?) eating!  Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.
PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.

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Russian Dolls! A fun investigation for Level 1 and 2 (with ideas for Entry level). Contributed by Di Mellor DMellor@darlington.ac.uk and Nicky Thomas from Darlington College. 2 pages. 260K. Note: You will need at least one set of dolls per pair of students.

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Length Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 3 pages. 60K.

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Capacity Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 3 pages. 100K.

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updated Weight Lotto (first posted 9/6/04). Great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com Now 5 pages with new E3 'suitable units' game, teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 220K.

PDF Smarties investigation excellent investigation that is also a lot of fun (unless you don't like Smarties!). Covers most HD1 curriculum elements from E1 to L1 along with other elements from N1 (whole numbers) and Measure (estimation). Covers counting, sorting, tallies, bar charts, mean, range and more. 3 pages. 45K
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.

MSS1/L1.5 Read, estimate, measure and compare distance

(a) know that distance is measured in miles or kilometres

(b) understand and use a mileage chart

(c) know how to use a simple scale to estimate distance on a road map

  • In discussion, estimate the distances between different towns and cities. Look at the distances on a road map and use the mileage chart in a road atlas to find the actual distances.

  • Use mileage charts to find the distances between different towns and cities.

  • Find a local map online by visiting streetmap.co.uk and entering a postcode, and use the scale to estimate the distance from home to a landmark such as a station, hospital or school.

  • Work out the total distances for a delivery van, district nurse or health visitor from a list of calls, using a local map or a mileage chart.

PDF Where did we go on holiday? Is a differentiated whole group (E1 - L2) activity that's ideal for the first class after the summer break. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 pages. 30K.
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.

MSS1/L1.6 add and subtract common units of measure within the same system (also see perimeter section)

(a) know the relationship between metric units

  • Calculate totals in practical situations, e.g. material for a curtain (window height plus hem).

  • Work out how much is left from a length of timber, pipe or material after cutting off a given amount.

  • Work out how much would be left in a container of liquid after removing a given amount.

  • Work out how much is left after using a given weight.

  • Work out a child's weight gain or loss over a period of time.

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Metric unit problems has interesting background information on the history of metric unit followed by real-life problems to solve. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 4 pages. 100K

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Burger King Investigation Fabulous statistics investigation that involves extracting information from tables; reading, comparing and calculating with measures; and much discussion about healthy (unhealthy?) eating!  Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.

MSS1/L1.7 Convert units of measure in the same system

Note: to practise multiplying / dividing by 10 and 100 try the worksheets in the Number Level 1 section.

(a) know the relationship between metric units

  • Convert measurements of length from one metric unit to another, e.g. mm to cm, cm to m, and vice versa.

  • Convert measurements of weight from one metric unit to another, e.g. kg to g and vice versa.

  • Convert measurements of capacity from one metric unit to another, e.g. l to ml and vice versa.

  • Use a table for common imperial measures for weight, length and capacity to convert between pounds and ounces, feet, inches and yards or pints and gallons in practical situations.

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Converting metres to kilometres is a very useful practice sheet for metric conversions. It's also ideal for underpinning Functional Maths. Contributed by Joy Barrand, joy.barrand@furness.ac.uk Furness College, Cumbria. 3 pages. 50K

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Metric bubble revision chart is a colourful mind map hat can help with remembering metric prefixes, metric-Imperial conversions and more. Would also make a good classroom poster. Plus a separate matching game. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 2 pages. 120K.

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Converting between metric measures has useful information about converting between metric measures of length followed by a gap fill exercise. Contributed by Michael Garen 2 pages. 40K
PDF Cocktail and smoothie ratios is a wonderful way to introduce ratio and proportion (also covers converting measures). Choose your favourites from the 'menu', work out ratios for the ingredients and calculate amounts required for multiples such as 6, 10 and 20 drinks, make up your own cocktail. Adapted by  Fiona Campbell, City of Bristol College fiona.campbell@cityofbristol.ac.uk from Jodie Travis's original version (still available here). This adapted version includes a wider range of non-alcoholic  cocktails / smoothies for non-drinking students.  8 pages. 140K.

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Metric measures of length and decimals provides two fill-in tables to practice converting between metric units (and multiplying and dividing decimals by 10 and 100) First covers m and cm, the second in cm and mm. Contributed by Sheena Clarke, Sheffield Lifelong Learning and Skills Service memesheena@blueyonder.co.uk  4 pages. 40K. Suitable for underpinning L1 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Metric unit problems has interesting background information on the history of metric unit followed by real-life problems to solve. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 4 pages. 100K

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Metric System is a very useful (and interesting) visual handout that covers metric prefixes from milli to kilo. It also includes useful tips for remembers what they mean. Contributed by John Thompson, Bournemouth Adult Learning. jpd.thompson@btopenworld.com 1 page. 16K.

PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.
PDF Cocktail ratios is a wonderful way to introduce ratio and proportion (also covers converting measures). Chose your favourites from the 'menu', work out ratios for the ingredients and calculate amounts required for multiples such as 6, 10 and 20 drinks, make up your own cocktail. Contributed by Jodie Travis, Salford College, travisjodie@hotmail.com 8 pages. 120K.

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Length Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension differentiation activities. 3 pages. 60K.

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Capacity Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 3 pages. 100K.

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updated Weight Lotto (first posted 9/6/04). Great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com Now 5 pages with new E3 'suitable units' game, teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 220K.

PDF Metres and centimetres: convert between m and cm. 48 cards for matching, Pelmanism or Snap. Contributed by Susan Allen (East Surrey College). 8 pages. 20K.
PDF Mixed metric measures: convert between cm, m and km; g and kg; ml and litres. 48 cards for matching, Pelmanism or Snap. Contributed by Susan Allen (East Surrey College) 8 pages. 20K.
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K

MSS1/L1.8 Work out the perimeter of simple shapes, e.g. rectangle, equilateral triangle (this element amended in the 2009 curriculum update)

(a) know that perimeter is the boundary of a shape

(b) know that perimeter is measured in units of length

(c) understand that measurements required to calculate the length of the perimeter depend on the shape

  • Discuss the meaning of perimeter and its use in practical contexts.

  • Find the perimeter of shapes in different ways, e.g. for large shapes such as a room or garden use pacing, a trundle wheel, metre stick or measuring tape; for smaller shapes use a piece of string, a 30cm or metre rule.

  • Discuss ways of finding the perimeter of a rectangular shape - (by measuring two sides) and derive a simple formula in words. Use the formula to check the perimeters of some of the shapes that have been found previously.

  • Investigate simple shapes with the same perimeter (e.g. a rectangle and a square), or rectangles with the same area but different perimeters.

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Floor plan area and perimeter tasks provides lots of real life style decorating problems. Makes a great introduction to area using the count-the-squares method. Also covers multiplying money (working out cost of tiling, etc.) and ideas for  L2 extension work. Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk 4 pages. 110K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - painting and decorating

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Perimeter, area and volume has clear diagrams and examples - makes a good introduction to this topic. Contributed by Julie Hobson, Northern Learning Trust. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 14 slides. 13K

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

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updated Make your own battleships game. Covers estimating, measuring and comparing lengths; perimeters and area. Contributed by Steph McGill, Bury College. 5 pages. 30K.

ZIP How to play Battle Ships Step by step PowerPoint guide to playing the battle ships game (contributed by Steph McGill in 2003 - see above). Contributed by Dave Clapham, Leeds anebla999@hotmail.com Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 18 screens. 100K.

MSS1/L1.9 Work out the area of rectangles

(a) know that area is a measure of surface

(b) know what measurements are required to calculate area, and how to obtain them

(c) know that measurements must be in the same units before calculating area

(d) know that the area of a rectangle = length x width

(e) know that area is measured in square units

  • Discuss reasons for finding areas, e.g. for items that are sold by the square metre or square yard such as carpets, or for estimating the amount of paint required to paint a wall (coverage is given on the tin).

  • Discuss the units of measure for area, e.g. square centimetre, square metre, square yard and the different ways to write them, e.g. cm2. Decide which units are appropriate for different sized areas.

  • Look at different ways of finding areas: by counting squares on drawings on squared paper, by drawing a plan and drawing in squares to scale.

  • Find the areas of different rectangular shapes and from the results construct a formula in words to find the area of a rectangle.

  • Estimate, measure and calculate areas of different rectangular shapes, e.g. walls, table tops, floor areas and gardens.

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Redecorating L1 Functional Maths (FM) tasks is a great way to practice L1 measure, area and estimating skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Scaffolding is provided for individual tasks to help build the skills required for functionality. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L1 FM. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 120K. Contextualised resources - painting and decorating.

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Interactive Excel area - volume worksheet has three interactive sheets: Paint calculator and carpet costs (area) and storage space (volume). Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 3 sheets.150K

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New carpets makes a lovely practical step by step introduction to area for L1 students. Contributed by Richard Webster, Nacro e2e, Manchester. rjwebster401@btinternet.com Thank you Richard. 2 pages. 35K MSS1/L1.9  and the step by step problem solving approach also makes this ideal for underpinning L2 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Floor plan area and perimeter tasks provides lots of real life style decorating problems. Makes a great introduction to area using the count-the-squares method. Also covers multiplying money (working out cost of tiling, etc.) and ideas for  L2 extension work. Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk 4 pages. 110K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - painting and decorating

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Perimeter, area and volume has clear diagrams and examples - makes a good introduction to this topic. Contributed by Julie Hobson, Northern Learning Trust. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 14 slides. 13K

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Practical sessions - weights, lengths, areas, capacities. Great, self-contained set of estimating, measuring and calculating activities designed to cover 4 sessions.  Contributed by Tim Goldstein. 10 pages. 50K

PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.

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Build a wall, re-turf a football pitch are just two of the four 'real-life' task sheets in this great resource. Work out costs and draw a scale diagram. Ideal for class or homework (originally used for Level 1 Key Skills Application of Number portfolio work N1.1, N1.2, N1.3.). 4 pages. 190K. Contributed by Jan Robinson, Chelmer Training janrobinson@chelmer-training.co.uk

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updated Make your own battleships game. Covers estimating, measuring and comparing lengths; perimeters and area. Contributed by Steph McGill, Bury College. 5 pages. 30K.

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How to play Battle Ships Step by step PowerPoint guide to playing the battle ships game (contributed by Steph McGill in 2003 - see above. Contributed by Dave Clapham, Leeds anebla999@hotmail.com Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 18 screens. 100K.

MSS1/L1.10  Work out simple volume (e.g. cuboids)

(a) know that volume is a measure of space

(b) know what measurements are required to calculate volume, and how to obtain them

(c) know that measurements must be in the same units before calculating volume

(d) know that the volume of a cuboid = length x width x height (or depth)

(e) know that volume is measured in cubic units

  • Discuss what volume means, how it is used, what units are used and how they are written (include words like cube, cubic, etc).

  • Work out the volume of a box by seeing how many cubes will fit.

  • Use the formula for finding area to construct a formula for finding volume.

  • Work out the volume for simple cuboid shapes such as boxes.

  • Calculate volumes from given dimensions in practical tasks, e.g. volume of concrete or soil.

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Interactive Excel area - volume worksheet has three interactive sheets: Paint calculator and carpet costs (area) and storage space (volume). Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 3 sheets.150K.

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Perimeter, area and volume has clear diagrams and examples - makes a good introduction to this topic. Contributed by Julie Hobson, Northern Learning Trust. Zipped PowerPoint (PPT) file. 14 slides. 13K

MSS1/L1.11  Work with scale diagrams   New element added in 2009 curriculum update

(a) Work out dimensions from drawings with simple shapes

(b) Understand the concept of scale, e.g. larger scale for more detail

(c) Understand direct proportion as applied to scale

  • Calculate room sizes from a given scale drawing.

  • Measure a room and produce a scale drawing.

  • Add furniture to the drawing using the same scale.

  • Use the internet to find scale drawings of buildings and places with the zoom function to show more detail with a bigger scale.

  • Compare and discuss the uses of road atlases with different scales.

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Designing a garden is a challenging project where students must research, plan and cost a luxury garden. Includes scale diagrams, money, and shape and space problems (paving slabs). Extension options cover percentages and averages. Great for horticulture students or anyone with an interest in gardening. Contributed by Jane Redgrave redgravej@selby.ac.uk Selby College. 4 pages. 80K. Also filed under contextualised resources - horticulture, also ideal for underpinning L1-2 Functional Maths (please download our new L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Buying herbs at the garden centre is based on packets of seeds and covers addition and subtraction of decimals (money), range and mean, and scale drawings. Great for horticulture students or anyone with an interest in gardening. Contributed by Susan Brocklehurst S2BROCKL@ccn.ac.uk City College, Norwich. 3 pages. 85K. Also filed under contextualised resources - horticulture. Also ideal for underpinning E3-L1 Functional Maths


Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Shape and Space - Level 1
MSS2/L1.1 solve problems using the mathematical properties of regular 2-D shapes (e.g. tessellation or symmetry)
(a) know that angles are measured in degrees
(b) know that a right angle is 90° or a quarter-turn
(c) know that four right angles fill a space
(d) identify regular shapes
(e) use a protractor to measure simple angles   This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(f) estimate the size of angles below 180° This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(g) identify shapes which will tessellate This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
  • Investigate which regular shapes will tessellate (i.e. fit together without a gap).

  • Plan a tiling pattern using rectangular tiles of the same size.

  • Plan a tiling pattern using two sizes of square tiles.

  • Plan a tiling pattern using square tiles with a symmetrical pattern.

  • Plan a tiling pattern using any shape or combination of shapes.

  • Use the properties of regular shapes in solving perimeter problems.

  • Use a graphics package (or 'Draw' in Word) to create tessellations using a single shape and transformations (copy and paste the shape, and flip or rotate).

  • Identify and measure angles in photographs.

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Tessellation and other Shape and Space investigations is a great set of activities and questions. The first is based on a children's design project and is aimed at L1 (with L2 extension activities). Plus two other practical L2 investigations ideal for horticulture (planting bulbs in flower beds) and construction (building a pathway with slabs). Estimating and working out exact costs are also covered. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 13 pages. 50K. Also ideal for L1-2 Functional Mathematics (please download our new L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Shapes around us is a fabulous interactive revision presentation for L1-2 2D shapes. Covers names, properties (inc. regular polygons), vocabulary, tessellation, measuring angles, parallel lines, symmetry and much more. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 29 slides. Zipped PPT 600K.

MSS2/L1.2 draw 2-D shapes in different orientations using grids (e.g. in diagrams or plans)
(a) recognise and name a range of mathematical 2-D and 3-D shapes This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update
(b) know the properties of regular 2-D shapes
  • Use pinboards, isometric and squared paper to help draw 2-D shapes, e.g. draw a tiling pattern for a floor or wall area.

  • Draw simple plans, e.g. draw a floor plan to show a room layout.

  • Use a graphics package (or 'Draw' in Word with gridlines displayed and set to 'Snap to grid') to draw 2-D shapes.

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Shapes around us is a fabulous interactive revision presentation for L1-2 2D shapes. Covers names, properties (inc. regular polygons), vocabulary, tessellation, measuring angles, parallel lines, symmetry and much more. Contributed by Gaye Noel g.noel@parklanecoll.ac.uk Park Lane College, Leeds. 29 slides. Zipped PPT 600K.

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2D and 3D shapes is a great set of resources for all levels from E1-L2. Includes info and worksheets, card/matching games and an IT drawing exercise. Contributed by John Thompson j.thompson@wigan-leigh.ac.uk Wigan and Leigh College. 12 pages. 120K

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A city of towers is an interactive whiteboard problem solving activity suitable for many levels. Makes a fun starter activity and provides a good link between shape and space and algebra. Can also used as a hands on activity for all (rather than just volunteers at the smartboard) using pencil and squared paper, plastic squares or wooden/plastic cubes. Also makes a good introduction to algebra / patterns from Entry 1 upwards. This resource was inspired by the original at http://nrich.maths.org/public/viewer.php?obj_id=183

Please note you must have the Smart notebook software installed on your computer in order to open, view and use this resource http://smarttech.com/

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Build a wall, re-turf a football pitch are just two of the four 'real-life' task sheets in this great resource. Work out costs and draw a scale diagram. Ideal for class or homework (originally used for Level 1 Key Skills Application of Number portfolio work N1.1, N1.2, N1.3.). 4 pages. 190K. Contributed by Jan Robinson, Chelmer Training janrobinson@chelmer-training.co.uk

MSS2/L1.3 Follow directions using appropriate positional vocabulary   New element added in 2009 curriculum update
(a) Read a compass using the eight main compass points
  • Use maps to find approximate positions of major towns, e.g. London is in the south east. Preston is in the north west, Newcastle is in the north east, Exeter is in the south west.

  • Understand and use NE, NW, SE, SW.

  • Use maps with a simple scale to give instructions working in pairs, e.g. Start at… go 8km NE.

   

Back to top (main Measure, Shape & Space index)

Common Measures -  Level 2
General Level 2 Measure resources including Functional Maths

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Selecting an air conditioner L2 Functional Maths tasks is great way to practice L2 volume skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Ideal (and fully mapped to) Functional Maths. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 2 pages. 30K.

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Level 1-2 Functional Maths - measures and scales is a set of real life problems written for construction students but suitable for any L1-2 FM students. Covers area, perimeter, volume and scale drawings. Mapped to the FM criteria. Contributed by Elizabeth Adeyemi, South Thames College. 10 screens. 80K zipped PPT file.  Conxtextualised resources - construction and carpentry

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Measures portfolio / workbook is a semi-structured set of investigations that would be ideal as an end of topic (common measures) informal assessment for L1-2 students. Covers length, weight, capacity, money, time, area and shapes. Contributed by Carmen Pop, Oxford & Cherwell Valley College. carmen.pop78@yahoo.co.uk  rjwebster401@btinternet.com 11 pages. 60K. The investigative approach also makes this ideal for underpinning L2 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Autumn term Level 2 Functional Maths formative assessment paper is an excellent assessment (based on a college cafe) that covers all aspects of Level 2 functional maths (inc measures) and will be immensely useful for providers that are switching from adult numeracy to FM. From the staff at South Thames College, School of Skills for Life. 150K. 13 pages (inc answers).

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Measures: quick reference cards provide a really useful wallet-sized reminder about metric and Imperial conversions, area., volume and perimeter.  Print back to back, laminate and cut into 12 cards. Contributed by Simon Roper, Coleg Llandrillo. 2 pages. 60K

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Xmas maths quiz provides practice with Level 1 and 2 multiple choice questions in a topical setting - great for playing in teams during the last class of term! Covers number, measure and data. Contributed by Kirstie Benefer, Stoke-on-Trent College. kbene1sc@stokecoll.ac.uk 14 questions, 42 slides.  380K (zipped PPT file). Also filed under Xmas resources

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Revision & vocabulary notes for L2 Numeracy test was written for ESOL students with good basic numeracy skills who were taking the test without attending numeracy classes. However these notes are brilliant for any Level 2 numeracy student. Contributed by Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College ruth.colclough@ncl-coll.ac.uk  3 pages. 140K. Covers almost all L2 elements.

MSS1/L2.1 calculate with sums of money and convert between currencies

(a) understand that exchange rates of currencies are not fixed, but vary on a daily basis

(b) understand buying rate and selling rate

(c) understand which operations to use in converting currencies  This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update

(d) know how to approximate exchange rates for rough calculations This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update

  • Use information from newspapers, banks or websites e.g., the xe currency website to find the value of £1 in different currencies. Discuss how these vary from day to day.

  • Given exchange rates for £1 for a selection of countries/currencies, calculate the equivalent amount for different sums, e.g. £10, £50, £100, £200.

  • Calculate the value of currency brought back from holiday.

  • Investigate the difference between the buying rate and the selling rate for different currencies and discuss the implications.

  • Use approximation to calculate the cost of goods in £ to compare prices in different currencies.

  • Use the Euro to compare the cost of goods in different countries.

  • Look at online shopping, hotel or airline websites that use different currencies and convert the prices to £, using any relevant method.

  • Use a calculator to convert between currencies and check the calculation using a written or mental approximation.

  • Use bank buying rates to convert amounts in different currencies brought back from a holiday into £ again, e.g. €20, $50, etc.

  • Calculate commission rates.

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A shopping trip to France provides great practice in converting money. Two differentiated worksheets -one suggests using an on-line currency converter, the other is more challenging and provides additional practice with multiplying decimals. Plus extension ideas. Contributed by Jane Flanders, Basingstoke College of Technology jane.flanders@bcot.ac.uk  2 pages. 80K Also suitable for L2 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet) and contextualised resources - travel & tourism

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Le Bistro Numeracy provides great practice in converting money and working with money and percentages. Contributed by Andy Heath andyintotnes@yahoo.co.uk  3 pages. 40K also filed under contextualised resources - travel & tourism.

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Converting currencies provides lots of practice converting sterling to various currencies (selling rate) and then converting back (buying rate). Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk Thank you Pauline. 2 pages. 35K MSS1/L2.1

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Valentine's Day Quiz has lots of money problems to solve including cost of flowers, Mr Extravaganza's fancy meal out and much more! Contributed by Kate Bone kateb@southwark.ac.uk Southwark College. 1 page. 16K

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Working with decimals: petrol prices & car accessories, multi-sensory activities. Great way to practise adding, subtracting and multiplying decimals. Ideal for Motor Vehicle students and E3-L2 learners that are interested in cars. Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 9 pages. 300K. Also listed under contextualised resources

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Converting currency provides practice converting between pounds and euros.  1 page plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ian Saunders, Darlington Borough Council Training Unit Ian.Saunders@darlington.gov.uk 25K.

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updated (first uploaded 24/05/03) Restaurant Bills warm-up covers mental and paper-based money skills from Entry 2 to Level 2. All you need are copies of local food menus (or make up your own on the blank provided). Contributed by Sarah Richards Sarah.Richards@abingdon-witney.ac.uk Abingdon and Witney College. 2 pages. 70K.

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Planning a holiday is a super Level 2 lesson that focuses mostly on conversions (currency, distances and temperature). Great for the end of term. Contributed by Gabrielle Adnitt, Milton Keynes Adult Education  gadnitt@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 90K

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Real 2005 Level 2 exam questions enlarged for printing on acetate. 2 on currency, 2 on converting measures. With answers, links and teaching notes. 2 colour pages. 25K.

MSS1/L2.2 Calculate, measure and record time in different formats.

(a) understand dates and times written in different formats

(b) know how to use measuring instruments such as timers on clocks, appliances, watches, etc

(c) know relationship between units of time (sec, min, hr, day, week, month, etc.)

  • Use the internet to look at information on websites in different countries to see how the date is written.

  • Use a calendar to calculate the length of time between given dates, e.g. term dates, holiday dates.

  • Calculate the return date from a given departure date (for holidays) for different time spans, e.g. 7 days, 10 days, 14 days, taking account of time differences.

  • Calculate journey times from timetables, taking account of time differences.

  • Measure and record the ‘down-time' of a machine.

  • Plan an event or excursion involving estimations of time needed.

  • Calculate cooking time according to weight, e.g. for a turkey.

  • Look at time zones in other countries.

PDF Fireworks makes a great, topical starter activity for mixed ability groups (E2 - L2).  Suitable for classes on or around bonfire night, Chinese New Year and New Year's Eve. Covers time, problem solving and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 25K.

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Murder at the Grange use this puzzler to reinforce working with time. Makes a great warm-up or plenary activity. Contributed by Brian Harris, b.harris1@ntlworld.com at Stockton Riverside College. 1 page. 13K.

PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K

MSS1/L2.3 Estimate, measure and compare length, distance, weight and capacity using metric, and where appropriate, imperial units

(a) know the metric units of length, distance, weight and capacity

(b) know the common imperial units of length, distance, weight and capacity where appropriate, e.g. yard, feet, inches, miles, tons, pounds, ounces, pints, gallons

(c) read scales to different levels of accuracy, including reading between marked divisions

(d) choose appropriate measuring instruments for given degree of accuracy This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update

(e) suggest appropriate units of measure for different contexts  This new sub-element added in the 2009 curriculum update

Discuss the appropriate units of measure for length, distance, weight, capacity, and the use of metric and imperial units

Suggest the appropriate units of measure for different given situations, e.g. distance in the UK, distance in other European countries, lengths of different races (short sprints, middle distance, long distance and marathons), weights of groceries, lorries etc

Estimate and check distances between towns, cities in the UK and further afield, using signposts, distance charts in road atlases and estimation from known distances on maps

Undertake measuring tasks to varying degrees of accuracy using appropriate instruments

Compare the nutritional information on different food labels introducing different units such as calories and joules

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Selecting an air conditioner L2 Functional Maths tasks is great way to practice L2 measure and volume skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L2 Functional Maths. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 30K. Contextualised resources - electrical and heating.

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Burger King Investigation Fabulous statistics investigation that involves extracting information from tables; reading, comparing and calculating with measures; and much discussion about healthy (unhealthy?) eating!  Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.

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Russian Dolls! A fun investigation for Level 1 and 2 (with ideas for Entry level). Contributed by Di Mellor DMellor@darlington.ac.uk and Nicky Thomas from Darlington College. 2 pages. 260K. Note: You will need at least one set of dolls per pair of students.
PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K

MSS1/L2.4 Estimate, measure and compare temperature, including reading scales and conversion tables

(a) know how to read a thermometer

(b) know that temperature can be measured on Celsius and Fahrenheit scales

  • Check the storage temperatures for refrigerators and freezer compartments, converting between Celsius and Fahrenheit if necessary, and deciding on safe storage temperatures for different types of food.

  • Check health and safety regulations for working temperatures.

  • Look at oven temperatures for different recipes; convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit and estimate values for cool, medium and hot ovens in both systems.

  • Be able to read and record the temperature accurately from a variety of different devices, both analogue and digital, and recognise whether they are in Fahrenheit or Celsius from the device or the situation.

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Converting between Celsius and Fahrenheit provides lots of useful practice in substitution and converting temperatures. Contributed by Michael Garen 2 pages. 115K

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Converting temperatures provides lots of practice in substitution and converting temperatures from home and abroad.  With comprehensive answer sheet. Contributed by Pauline Bicker, Northern Learning Trust pbicker@northernlearningtrust.org.uk 2 pages. 170K

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Temperature and thermometers is a great set of 'real life' questions, many based on weather statistics from across the world. Covers reading scales, using two scales to convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit, understanding negative temperatures, finding mean average and range, extracting information from tables and bar charts, and plotting data on line or bar charts. Due to the wide variety of skills covered, this makes an ideal end of year revision exercise- as well as neatly covering the temperature elements of the L1/2 curriculum. Contributed by John Wood, BHTS, North Devon College JohnWood@ndevon.ac.uk 6 pages. 100K

MSS1/L2.5 Calculate with units of measure within the same system

(a) know the relationship between metric units

(b) know the relationship between common imperial units, where appropriate

  • Calculate the amount of paint required based on the area of wall that needs to be painted.

  • Calculate the number of shelves of a given length that could be cut from a length of timber.

  • Calculate the total area of carpet needed for a room and use the information to calculate the total cost from the cost per square metre.

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Converting metres to kilometres is a very useful practice sheet for metric conversions. It's also ideal for underpinning Functional Maths. Contributed by Joy Barrand, joy.barrand@furness.ac.uk Furness College, Cumbria. 3 pages. 50K

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Selecting an air conditioner L2 Functional Maths tasks is great way to practice L2 measure and volume skills in a practical problem solving scenario. Ideal (and fully mapped to) L2 Functional Maths. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk Thank you everyone at Swansea ITeC. 2 pages. 30K. Contextualised resources - electrical and heating.

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Strange Maths is not for the faint-hearted as it covers topics such as war/guns, eye balls, water, burgers and flies. However it is bound to interest students and is a great way of practising working with very large numbers and converting between metric measures. Focuses learners on deciding which operation (multiplication or division) is required for each problem. Contributed by John Wood, BHTS, North Devon College JohnWood@ndevon.ac.uk 6 pages. 150K

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Converting between metric measures has useful information about converting between metric measures of length followed by a gap fill exercise. Contributed by Michael Garen 2 pages. 40K

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Metric unit problems has interesting background information on the history of metric unit followed by real-life problems to solve. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 4 pages. 100K

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Metric System is a very useful (and interesting) visual handout that covers metric prefixes from milli to kilo. It also includes useful tips for remembers what they mean. Contributed by John Thompson, Bournemouth Adult Learning. jpd.thompson@btopenworld.com 1 page. 16K.

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Burger King Investigation Fabulous statistics investigation that involves extracting information from tables; reading, comparing and calculating with measures; and much discussion about healthy (unhealthy?) eating!  Contributed by Saul Pope, Education and Youth Services, High Wycombe. saulpope@yahoo.co.uk 6 pages. 50K.

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Length Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 3 pages. 60K.

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Capacity Lotto great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com With teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 3 pages. 100K.

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updated Weight Lotto (first posted 9/6/04). Great game for practising converting measures at Levels 1 and 2. Also covers number elements. Contributed by Karen Hannah, kare.hannah@gmail.com Now 5 pages with new E3 'suitable units' game, teaching ideas and extension / differentiation activities. 220K.

MSS1/L2.6 Calculate with units of measure between systems, using conversion tables and scales, and approximate conversion factors

(a) know rough equivalencies between common metric and imperial measures, e.g. 1lb is about 450 grams, a litre is a bit less than 2 pints, a gallon is about 4.5 litres, a kilogram is a bit more than 2lb, a metre is a bit more than a yard, an inch is about 2.5 cm, a foot is about 30 cm.

(b) know how to read conversion scales and tables

(c) know how to use approximate conversion factors, e.g. 1 inch = 2.54 cm

  • Use conversion tables to convert weights, lengths, capacities using any relevant measures, e.g. capacities on milk bottles, tanks or containers; weights of vehicles, groceries, babies or adults; dimensions of timber or sports pitches.

  • Construct a conversion chart or line graph to convert miles to kilometres, and use it to convert between the two, using distances between towns, etc.

  • Check the use of tables by using given approximate conversion factors.

  • Match rough equivalences between metric and imperial units.

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Metric bubble revision chart is a colourful mind map hat can help with remembering metric prefixes, metric-Imperial conversions and more. Would also make a good classroom poster. Plus a separate matching game. Contributed by Leia Fee and other staff at Swansea ITeC leia.fee@swansea-itec.co.uk 2 pages. 120K.

PDF Cocktail and smoothie ratios is a wonderful way to introduce ratio and proportion (also covers converting measures). Choose your favourites from the 'menu', work out ratios for the ingredients and calculate amounts required for multiples such as 6, 10 and 20 drinks, make up your own cocktail. Adapted by  Fiona Campbell, City of Bristol College fiona.campbell@cityofbristol.ac.uk from Jodie Travis's original version (still available here). This adapted version includes a wider range of non-alcoholic  cocktails / smoothies for non-drinking students.  8 pages. 140K.

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Getting the quantities right is an embedded numeracy resource written for catering students. Provides conversion information and step by step examples for resizing recipes (up or down). Four genuine recipes plus a conversion exercise. Contributed by Cathy Barton, cathy.barton@glasgowmet.ac.uk Glasgow Metropolitan College. 8 pages. 95K. Also filed under Contextualised resources - catering

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 Autumn apple cake is a wonderful seasonal L1-2 investigation (2 options - one for L1, one for L2) that covers ratios, formulae (oven temperatures, cake tins), converting measures, money and more. Also includes a useful information sheet on autumn festivals from different cultures and faiths - ideal for prompting further discussion re. equality and diversity. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. Thank you Judith. 5 pages. 40K

tarsia fjsw

Converting measures Tarsia puzzle is 16 piece jigsaw that makes a great ice breaker. First used with older learners who were unused to metric measures, and a younger learner who was unused to imperial. Learners have to match metric measure descriptions or quantities with their imperial equivalents to solve the puzzle. Learners match metric measures to the equivalent Imperial measures in order to complete the triangle. Although converting between systems is only covered at level 2 of the curriculum the creator, Andrea, reports that E3/L1 students cope with this very well, as their life experiences help them.  Andrea suggests that as the print is quite small on the standard sized puzzle, tutors might find it helpful to print out the larger version of the puzzle (select Output - large). Created with Tarsia Formulator (see our Useful Links page for further details) which is available for free download and creates its own custom Tarsia (fjsw) files. Contributed by Andrea McCulloch, LEAP Skills for Life Centre, Barnard Castle and Learn East, Peterlee. 10K. MSS1/L2.6

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Celebrity BMI investigation shows students how to calculate a body mass index and asks them to investigate the BMI of their choice of celebrities and present the results graphically. Covers formulae, decimals, calculators, converting measures, representing data, averages and range. Contributed by Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College janet_w@rfdc.ac.uk 3 pages. 160K

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Level 2 car maths provides excellent practice with many Level 2 elements including fractions, decimals, percentages, ratio, converting measures, and using formulae. Contributed by Gordon Noblett gnoblett@accross.ac.uk Accrington and Rossendale College. 10 questions. 2 pages with answer sheet. 60K.

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Converting measures provides practice converting between metric and Imperial units of capacity, length\distance and weight.  1 page plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ian Saunders, Darlington Borough Council Training Unit Ian.Saunders@darlington.gov.uk 30K

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Planning a holiday is a super Level 2 lesson that focuses mostly on conversions (currency, distances and temperature). Great for the end of term. Contributed by Gabrielle Adnitt, Milton Keynes Adult Education  gadnitt@yahoo.co.uk 2 pages. 90K

PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.
PDF Where did we go on holiday? Is a differentiated whole group (E1 - L2) activity that's ideal for the first class after the summer break. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 pages. 30K.
PDF Cocktail ratios is a wonderful way to introduce ratio and proportion (also covers converting measures). Chose your favourites from the 'menu', work out ratios for the ingredients and calculate amounts required for multiples such as 6, 10 and 20 drinks, make up your own cocktail. Contributed by Jodie Travis, Salford College, travisjodie@hotmail.com 8 pages. 120K.

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Real 2005 Level 2 exam questions enlarged for printing on acetate. 2 on currency, 2 on converting measures. With answers, links and teaching notes. 2 colour pages. 25K.

PDF updated Measure cards for MSS1 Entry 2 through to Level 2. 4 sets of word cards, 2 sets of picture cards. Sort, match. order and group cards. Metric measures, imperial measures, units of time, measuring instruments, suitable units. Great starter or revision activities. Build active learning into your lessons. Great for visual and kinaesthetic learners. 7 colour pages. 420K.

MSS1/L2.7 Understand and use given formulae for finding areas and perimeters of regular shapes (e.g. rectangular and circular surfaces)

(a) know what is meant by perimeter, radius, diameter, circumference

(b) recognise the symbol for pi, and know its approximate value

(c) know how to make substitutions in a formula  and work out the result

  • Find the number of times the diameter of a circle fits around the circumference, using string and a dustbin lid, thread and a plate, etc. Compare the results from measuring several different objects to agree an approximation.

  • Use the results of the investigation to work out a simple formula for the circumference of a circle and check the results of using the formula.

  • Practise using given formulae to find the circumference of circles, and other regular shapes.

  • Use illustrations of a circle divided into equal slices, with slices re-arranged to approximate a rectangle. Discuss the length of the sides of the rectangle to derive the formula for area.

  • Practise using given formulae to find the area of circles and other regular shapes.

  • Set up a spreadsheet to investigate the area of different rectangles with the same perimeter. Which rectangles have the largest and smallest area?

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Area of circles and triangles provides straightforward but very useful practice with working with formulae and using pi. 2 pages plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ian Saunders, Darlington Borough Council Training Unit Ian.Saunders@darlington.gov.uk 40K

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Perimeter and area exercise involves working out the cost of carpeting a flat (compound shapes) and seeding and fencing a circular lawn. Contributed by Chris Cook, Peterborough College of Adult Education. 3 pages. 150K Note the step by step problem solving approach also makes this ideal for underpinning L2 Functional Maths (please download our new general L1-2 F. Maths help sheet).

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Perimeter, circumference and area provides practice with both regular and non-regular shapes. 1 page plus answer sheet. Contributed by Ian Saunders, Darlington Borough Council Training Unit Ian.Saunders@darlington.gov.uk  40K.

PDF Feeding and weeding the lawn is a super differentiated whole group activity (E2 - L2) for spring, summer or autumn. Covers measures, area, rounding, substitution and more. Contributed by Judith White, Somerset Skills & Learning. 1 page. 50K.