Useful links for Adult Basic Skills Tutors: professional development, exams, government agencies, books, research, software, accessibility, learning styles, study support, embedded learning, college and community learning sites

Useful Links for Basic Skills Tutors
All 250 links last checked 28/08/08. Latest link added 26/10/08

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Good Books
	Avanti Books the major UK supplier for "the most comprehensive supplier of resources to support basic skills teaching... cover literacy, numeracy and ESOL; key skills and workplace basic skills; family literacy and lifelong learning...". Good friendly service too! They also sell the BSA books mentioned above.
	CGP Books brilliant publishers of low cost (maximum cost about £4.50) revision and workbooks for all levels of the UK Schools National Curriculum from KS1 through to A level. Some are great for adults too as they are well written, colourful and explain everything clearly and with a sense of humour. Favourites include the GCSE Maths Foundation Level Workbook (order the answer book too so students can self check their work) and revision book. The GCSE English Grammar Book has good reference sections on homophones, punctuation, etc. Level 1 and 2 Adult Lit/Num practice papers now available. These are great! (select 'product range' and then 'adult education'). All original texts in the literacy papers (not copied from past papers). Four packs (£4 each). Each includes 24 practice papers of 10 questions each. These are arranged in curriculum areas so are great for working on throughout the year when focusing on individual topics. For example, in the Level 1 numeracy pack there are 6 papers on whole numbers, 5 on fractions decimals and percentage, 6 on common measures, etc. Literacy follows a similar pattern: for example at Level 1 there are 8 papers on reading text, 1 paper on sentence level work, 2 on vocabulary, 6 on spelling etc.
	English Basics Books 1-3 by Mark Cholij. Great because they are suitable for adults, both native English speakers and ESL students. Each book includes 30 topics - covering punctuation, spelling and grammar at a range of levels. Each section has initial tasks, followed by a reference section and further exercises (answers at the back!). Sentences, capital letters, full stops, adding -ed, -ing, irregular verbs, negative prefixes, colons, hyphens, homophones, confusing words, informal speech, formal English, various noun endings. etc. We got ours from Amazon.co.uk within three days of ordering.
	Gatehouse Books publishes a great selection of adult beginner reader books for use in Adult (and post 14) Literacy and ESOL. Many have been written by adults who are developing their own literacy skills, for example Secrets by Sue Torr and Getting Better by Marie MacNamara. Gatehouse's ever-increasing collection also includes audio cassettes and interactive CDRoms. Teaching packs and worksheets are available to accompany many of the books. Useful thumbnail views of books are available on the site. NEWS! 26/10/08 Please support Margaret Adams, a prolific contributor to this site (particularly phonics resources) who has just had her first book published by Gatehouse! Pam's Secret is suitable for Entry 1-2 students and has an adult storyline. It is the first in the 'Supermarket' Series. There's also a CD that is chock a block with related learning activities - these can be printed, or displayed on a smartboard for group work . Worksheets are arranged chapter by chapter and include cloze, comprehension, crosswords and much more.
	Maths The Basic Skills (June Haighton) is an excellent book from Nelson Thornes (ISBN 0-7487-7700-8). Covers all numeracy elements from E3 to L2 with clear explanations and lots of practice exercises (answers at back). Great for students studying for Level 1 or Level 2 numeracy as they often need to dip back to Entry 3 in some areas. Related packs of worksheets for Entry 1 and 2 numeracy (one pack each for number, measure and data) also available plus new E1-2 workbooks. Recommended by Di Mellor, Darlington College (thank you).
	More Mathematical Activities (Brian Bolt, Cambridge University Press 1985). Thanks to Susan Susan Allen for suggesting this book. Susan particularly recommends the divisibility investigation (no 113). The activities are supposed to be for school children but much of the book contains quite advanced activities. Out of print but there seem to be plenty of copies available on EBay!
	NEC (National Extension College) have a range of Skills for Life workbooks and publications for both self study and tutor led literacy and numeracy. You can download free preview packs of some titles.
	New Leaf Publishing has an exciting range of attractive and very readable books for adults who are new to reading. Audio CDs are available to accompany all 'Beginner Readers'. New Leaf has also published beautiful new editions of many titles previously published by The Gatehouse Publishing Charity (including old favourites such as The Cardigan and The Bin Men). There's also a great selection of Lifeline CDs - powerful stories written by prisoners and read by professional readers. Site has now had a major overhaul - you can now purchase books and CDs online and listen to many sample audio tracks (inc slow reading tracks).
	Quick Reads are a series of short (max 120 pages) quick reads from popular authors and/or celebrities. A new set were published on World Book Day 6th March 08. All are reasonably priced at £1.99. The site has details on all the books plus links to the literacytrust.org.uk which has free Word and PDF resources related to the latest books (I like the suggested extension activities for Humble Pie by Gordon Ramsey) and previous 2006-07 books. There are also free publicity materials and an interesting personal recount from a Skills for Life literacy teacher (about how she uses Quick Reads in her classes at Tamworth College).
	Richard Lederer has written many books about English language and usage. All are easy to read, fun and full of ideas and snippets of information that make great warm up activities (E3 upwards). My favourite is Crazy English (followed closely by The Write Way and The Play of Words - all available from Amazon.co.uk). His site also has a great page of language links to word games, oxymora, palindromes, grammar, online dictionaries and much more.
	26/10/08 Workplace reading is a fabulous and very sociable way of promoting literacy skills and an interest in reading. For just £99 you can buy a 'book box' with thirty popular titles (across a wide range of reading levels and covering self help, sport, biographies contemporary fiction). Each box includes 10 Quick Reads and top up, themed packs or multiple copies of one title are also available. I'm always on the lookout for Quick Reads of interest to teenagers and young adults. Some of the new QR titles that caught my eye include: Vinyl Demand, where two 19 year old girls stumble across a priceless vinyl collection; Losing It, about Baldock the 'Local drug dealer and hard man of the Welsh Valleys'; and Secrets, a ghostly mystery. The site also suggests different ways in which book boxes can be used (they would certainly be ideal for college literacy classes as well as in the workplace). Order packs online or use a freephone number to order books and obtain more information.

Embedded and Contextual Learning (literacy and numeracy)
	The Basic Skills Agency at NIACE (see our entry under DfES and Government agencies) has a great new series of embedded learning leaflets entitled 'Survival Skills in the workplace' (retail, hairdressing, motor vehicle and many others) that give an overview of the literacy and numeracy skills needed in each vocation.
	University of Plymouth Centre for Innovation in Mathematics Teaching - Mathematics Enhancement Programme (previously based at Exeter University). Now has a new Topical applications of Maths area with resources, OHTs and lesson plans. Topics covered include: Fair Trade, lottery, global warming and many more. This is one of my favourite and most used sites - check out the ILT page for details of the equally good interactive tutorials and the Printable resource page for details of their many PDF resources.
	Embedded Learning Portal (DfES) has dozens of great downloadable Skills for Life resources - all mapped to Core Curricula, Key Skills and Occupational standards (main focus seems to be roughly E2-L1 but there are some great Milestone 7-8 /E1 literacy resources in the Family Care section). Currently covers Horticulture, Social Care, Family Health, Trowel Occupations and Communication for International Nurses. Now with 92 interactive activities covering literacy and numeracy from M7-L2. Now also includes Skilled for Health materials - these address people’s needs for a better understanding and improvement of their health. PLEASE NOTE. If you have difficulties viewing the interactive materials on lower resolution monitors press F11 to view full screen.
	Learners.org from the Greater Manchester Community Grid for Learning is a free service open to all adults in Greater Manchester who fancy a go at an online course or quiz, particularly those who may have missed out on educational opportunities in the past. However, even if you don't live in Manchester you can try taster courses (make sure you have speakers or headphones) in gardening, parenting, digital photography, friends and family - talk about your neighbourhood (ESOL). Many new taster courses now added to this site.
	Learning from Experience is a useful site from NIACE (National Institute of Adult Continuing Education) which includes a large section on embedded learning - some very interesting and useful case studies, examples of good practice, sample ILPs , etc.
	Skilled to go is a brand new toolkit from the Office of Fair Trading. You need to register (free) but there are some fabulous Word/PDF resources (and MP3 listening resources) here - grouped under 3 main headings: Buying & Selling, Technology (mobile phone contracts, etc.) and Utilities (electric bills, etc.). Copious teacher's notes, templates for letters of complaint, Look-Say-Cover-Write-Check tables, key words, annotated bills, and more. The listening MP3 activity about mobile phone contracts would be ideal for teenagers. There are also videos (dodgy dealers, car boots), more MP3s (making a telephone complaint, etc), role play cards, dimension cards (don't buy furniture that's too big!), etc.
	Smart Shopper Guide is part of Oxfordshire Trading Standards site and is for those teaching teenagers about trading standards - includes teacher notes, lesson plans, student notes, student worksheets, crosswords, fun cartoons and other resources on a selection of topics inc. buying a car, advertising (persuasive writing), consumer rights, food labelling and more.
	MLA Museums, Libraries, Archives (Yorkshire) has an Open Doors project which offers support, information and inspiration for museum, library and archive staff and Skills for Life practitioners. The site describes ways in which mlas can work with Skills for Life learners, and the benefits that this type of partnership working can bring. There are some very useful generic downloadable resources for introducing learners to libraries, etc.
	The NRDC (see our entry under Research and Development) has many case studies (ad other research documents) about the embedded teaching and learning of adult literacy, numeracy and ESOL in a range of vocational areas (childcare, engineering, complementary healthcare, etc.) such as this research document (large 70 page PDF)
	PoliceUK if your students are thinking of joining the force this site has online versions of their numeracy and verbal reasoning tests (you need to register first)
	QIA Excellence Gateway - see below under DfES sites
	updated 27/08/08 Skillsmart Retail - the Sector Skills Council for Retail with masses of information of employment, learning providers and training.
	Target Skills for Work interactive multimedia programmes aimed at workers in the passenger transport, logistics, retail, care, manufacturing, cleaning, construction and hospitality sectors. The materials concentrate on the essential literacy and numeracy skills required for work, including basic number skills, and reading, writing, speaking and listening. High quality photocopiable workbooks are also available.
	Vocational numeracy online has a series of very good PDF worksheets - some teach a general skill (e.g. fractions decimals and percentages PDF or this 32 page document on measure (3MB PDF), then there are others where you can apply the skill. These are selected via a vocational menu which includes business, forestry, care, automotive, tourism, etc.

Hands-on Resources
	At long last! After looking for months for a supplier of small whiteboard pens and individual boards (for spelling, planning and mental maths) I found Easy Teach where I obtained 10 cream coloured boards (lines on one side , blank on reverse) and 20 small dry wipe pens for £28 (larger class packs of 30 are even cheaper). Very fast and friendly service.
	BEAM specialise in maths resources for UK primary schools (paper based and tactile - kinaesthetic) and have a huge collections of board games, counters, blocks, mirrors, etc. They also have an good 'Maths of the month' page with a range of free printables for all levels and topics.
	Firetop-Mountain EBay shops has a brilliant selection of educational dice and will put together custom sets. Dice include fractions; percentages; decimals; smileys; transport pictures; animal pictures; 6 , 8, 12 and 20 sided; giant dice; Roman numerals, and more. They provided me with a great set of 58 dice plus a storage bag for £20. Next day delivery and friendly service.

Good Software
	Basic Skills Resources offers more than 30 basic skills programs for Windows; covering literacy, numeracy and spatial skills. Each program costs only £10 (discount for 5+ programs). All available for a free 21 day trial. Titles include fractions, spelling months and days, word matching, giving change (UK currency and Euros) and much more. Ideal for Entry Level Students.
	Eclipse Crossword is a completely free downloadable program that is fast and powerful but easy enough for students to use to create their own puzzles - whilst practising spelling and sentence writing (for the clues) at the same time! Thanks to Janet Wilkins, Royal Forest of Dean College College, for suggesting this link. New 1/03/08 Janet has now contributed several crosswords to get you going! Crosswords can be printed with or without a word bank, answer key, etc. and can also be saved as interactive web pages (these make a good whole class activity on a smartboard).
	Crossword Construction Kit another excellent program, again available for free trial use, before registration of only $20 (simply pay with your UK credit card and download). We have used this program for several years - great for working on particular word endings or word strings, and parts of grammar. One of the most useful crosswords we have produced with this is based on the past tense of verbs (appearing on this site soon!). Allows import and export of clues and puzzles, built in thesaurus, fancy shaped crosswords, clues, bonus questions, etc.
	DFilm is a really fun site where you can create a short movie. Huge choice of characters and backgrounds. Then simply type your dialogue into the speech bubbles and choose your back ground music and you can create a short educational snippet in whatever subject you wish (or get your students to create one). Once finished you type in your email address and a link to the new movie is sent to you. Recommended by Ellen Lessner, Abingdon and Witney College (thank you).
	PictureGrid Editor (note this link takes you to Tower Hamlets site - log in as guest) is a quick and wonderful way to create simple drag an drop picture exercises in just a few minutes. You can can add optional sound files and link activities together. Saves as a PowerPoint, Word document or html filet. Recommended by Ellen Lessner, Abingdon and Witney College (thank you).
	Whiteboard Maths (previously known as Powerpoint maths) is a CD with a huge selection of presentations designed for teachers to use with electronic whiteboards. Designed for the secondary curriculum but many presentations are suitable for Entry Level and a cut down version of the CD is available. Each presentation can also be ordered individually from the site with prices ranging from 50p to £3 each. Recommended by Di Mellor, Darlington College (thank you). Some free sample PPTs are available (you need to register - free) including odd-even numbers, mental addition, negative numbers.
	Target Skills an excellent set of eight CDs that help adults learn and practise their literacy and numeracy skills ( Entry Levels 1-3, Level 1, and New Level 2 Literacy and Numeracy and Entry 1 Resource Banks). All activities are mapped to the adult literacy and numeracy curricula with optional web based tracking for tutors. Plus the Target Skills Initial Assessment disc that checks literacy and numeracy skills, and gives detailed results from Entry 1 to Level 2, and there's also a Basic Skills Screener that gives an overall idea of level (below level 2, below level 1 or below Entry 3). see our embedded learning section for Target Skills at Work (workbooks and CDs for Retail, Hospitality, Construction, Manufacturing, Care and Cleaning.
	Tarsia Formulator is a brilliant free program that creates wonderful matching jigsaws (rectangular, hexagonal, etc - with between 12-24 facts to match), dominoes and follow me cards. Although designed for maths use (built in formula editor etc.) it can be adapted for any topic and allows images to be imported. Thanks to Dave Clapham, Park Lane College for recommending this program. I hope to build up a collection of Tarsia files for all levels in both Literacy and Numeracy. Please download and send in your contributions! New 17/10/07- see Dave's help sheet for creating simplified Tarsia puzzles
	Schoolhouse Technologies - Worksheet Creation Software produce four fantastic worksheet programs. Two are completely free: Basic Facts Worksheet Factory (for simple straight forward maths operations and tables squares) and Word search Factory. The other two are available for 30 free "goes", before purchase at very reasonable fees. Vocabulary Worksheet Factory is ideal for crosswords, word searches, dictionary searches and a host of other tasks. For example "Word Shapes" is great for beginning readers at level E1, and the "Jumbles" games allow many options such as missing out specific letters (such as vowels or consonants) - useful for spelling, and phonics practice at levels E1-E2. Finally our favourite, Math Worksheet Factory V3 is just brilliant - create personalised worksheets for all adult numeracy levels at the touch of a button. All four basic operations, counting, number squares, graphs, angles, shapes, fractions, decimals, percentages, ordering numbers, and dozens more options. Superb value - registration after your trial period is only $25 (or they accept UK cheques). We will be featuring some maths worksheets made with this program on this site soon!

Professional Development for Teachers and Supporters of Adult Literacy, Numeracy and ESOL
General
	Interactive on-line adult literacy literacy tutoring/coaching course has 9 separate web quests (teaching adult reading, adult writing, study skills, numeracy, etc.) where you follow a series of web links to investigate different teaching ideas and strategies. Some of the links appear to be dead but there is much useful background material to be found.
	updated 27/08/08 Life Long Learning UK is the body responsible for the professional development of all those working in work-based learning; higher education; further education; community learning; and libraries, archives and information services.
	The Skills for Life Improvement Program has dozens of online PowerPoint resources for trainers and managers. If you are trying to encourage a 'whole-organisation' approach to SfL and a professional SfL workforce then this is the site for you. Plus lots of info on embedding basic skills. Plus modules and teaching resources for delivering levels 2, 3 and 4 Literacy, numeracy, preEntry and ESOL.
	Skills for Life: Adult Literacy Resources' a talk (and related web site) given by me to PGCE students (post 16) at Oxford Brookes University as part of a 'Basic Skills Theme Day'. The day was designed to meet the FENTO requirements to address Skills for Life during teacher training. Includes: a downloadable PowerPoint (with notes and hand out) on background and history of the Skills for Life strategy, the development of commercial and free literacy resources, and pointers for creating high quality printed resources; an online mystery web hunt (to familiarise students with free online resources) with fill-in worksheet; useful links and much more. Note: web hunt answers can be found by clicking small animated icon at bottom left of the web page or by going to this link.
	Skills for Life Network provides up to the minute information on all areas of Skills for Life development both locally and nationally. Regular newsletters are sent out to members who also have access to useful resources and a knowledgebase. Most resources are simply links to other sites but there are about a dozen downloadable items including a very useful 20 hour spelling course for E2 upwards.
Resources for those studying or delivering the Level 2 Certificate in Adult learner Support
	Literacy Connections has useful information for volunteer tutors (and others) about the terms used in literacy / reading teaching such as guided reading, paired reading, visualisation, etc. Lots of other good stuff too.
	City and Guilds have detailed info on the Level 2 certificate in learner support (now replaced with the new Level 2 Award in Literacy, Language, Numeracy and ICT Awareness) such as the Scheme handbook and interesting examiner's reports on the externally assessed 'Working in the sector' assignment.
	Skills for Life Quality Initiative (see above) has modules for delivery of Literacy 2.1: Developing and achieving good communication skills in support work, and 2.2: Progression to planning and teaching. Numeracy 2.1: Language and numeracy, and 2.2: Dyslexia, dyscalculia and numeracy. ESOL 2.1: Refugee awareness for frontline workers: who are the refugees? and 2.2: Refugee awareness for frontline workers: Skills for Life strategy. PreENTRY: Supporting learners and the Pre-entry curriculum framework, Knowing about your learners, and Identifying and supporting progress and achievement.
	updated 27/08/08 The Link up project was set up to train volunteers in 20 deprived areas. The project has now finished but an excellent CD full of comprehensive teaching resources, session plans, activities, OHTs, fact sheets etc. is still available for free by emailing DfES publications. Details here. Fully covers all three modules: working in sector; supporting learners; and the ESOL, Literacy and numeracy subject areas.
Resources for those studying or delivering the Certificates in Professional Practice (levels 3 and 4) or the new Level 4-5 Additional Diploma
	FENTO_Subject_Specifications for level 3 and 4 certificates in supporting / teaching adult literacy and numeracy now available on the Read Write Plus site as web pages / Word documents.
	updated 27/08/08 Lifelong Learning site replaces the old FENTO site and has all the subject specification at level 3 and 4 plus useful guidance for those delivering these qualifications.
	Move On is not only an excellent source of practice exams (see below) but also has good Study Skills resources for teachers delivering the Level 3 Literacy/Numeracy Subject Support Certificate. Includes handouts and PowerPoints on study skills and learning styles.
	Skills for Life Quality Initiative (see above) has many many modules (particularly at level 4) for delivery of Literacy, Numeracy. ESOL and PreEntry at levels 3 and 4.
	DfES Standards Site Professional Development section has useful resources. Try this presentation about sentence structure (simple, compound, complex) as a starter.
Level 3 Numeracy
	ACER (Association of Colleges in the Eastern Region) have masses of fantastic L3 numeracy training materials (overview. notes and activities for 23 sessions) and useful information.
Level 4-5 Numeracy
	ALM (Adults Learning Mathematics) has its newsletter / magazines available online. The June 2005 version has an overview of the new adult numeracy strategy in Ireland. Its journals also now available, the first one (56 page PDF) includes 'A New View of Mathematics Will Help Mathematics Teachers' and 'Growth of Mathematical Understanding in Workplace Training'.
	Literacies is the online magazine of the Movement for Canadian Literacy. The Spring 2005 edition focuses on reflective numeracy practice and has several fascinating articles including Making Math Concrete (and Iron, and Plastic...), Can Numeracy and Technology Work Together? Beyond WorkSheets: Making Math Meaningful, and Working with Student Resistance to Math Tools. NOTE: these links checked 28/08/08. All work, but be patient - very VERY slow to load.
	London Adult Numeracy Professional Development Centre the leading UK organisation for the development and enhancement of numeracy teaching and learning (post 16). Plus some very useful downloadable resources for teaching and Level 4 numeracy training.
	See the Maths4Life site in our DfES section for research in teaching and learning numeracy
	NRDC National Research and Development Centre for adult numeracy and literacy has resources that arose from a 20 month researcher-practitioner project on teaching measures. Web quest, handouts about the history of measurement, fascinating transcripts of interviews with learners about how they use measures, free images of measures and people measuring, scheme of work, worksheets including some great measure questions for discussion (huge 4MB DOC file) and a wonderful 'Do you measure up?' quiz that will defy even the most numerate practitioner!
Level 3 Literacy
	ACER (Association of Colleges in the Eastern Region) have masses of fantastic L3 literacy training materials (overview. tutor notes, handouts and activities for 26 sessions) and useful information.
	Apostrophe protection society not only gives you rules for using apostrophes but also provides dozens of real-life pictures showing examples of misuse. Great for teaching. Thanks to Ruth Wood at Pro-Training, Colwick, Nottingham for recommending this link.
	Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation is ideal for reference. Plus useful online tests to check your learning (try the mastery grammar quiz for a challenge). Thanks to Ruth Wood at Pro-Training, Colwick, Nottingham for recommending this link.
	Hypergrammar is an electronic version of the grammar course offered at the University of Ottawa. Recommended by Ruth Wood.
	The Standards Site: Grammatical knowledge for teachers has some very useful step by step activities you can work through to improve your own grammatical knowledge.
	The Tongue Tied Untied (Guide to grammar, punctuation and style) is an online book which includes printable exercises so that you can check your learning as you progress. Thanks to Ruth Wood at Pro-Training, Colwick, Nottingham who recommends this link for the text analysis assignment.
Level 4-5 Literacy - Module I (or similar): Understanding and describing language
	Andrew McIntyre is a lecturer in linguistics at University of Leipzig. He has written several useful papers covering English morphology that I found really helpful when writing my essay. There is also a fascinating particle verb list and much more.
	Ask Oxford (Oxford Dictionaries) is a goldmine of information. Try How spelling got to be so diffcult, and Better writing has great sections on grammar and spelling tips, letter writing and much more.
	Buncha Roots leads to two separate pages, each with immense tables of Greek \ Latin roots - affixes along with definitions and examples.
	Centre for Research in Computational Linguistics (Bangkok) has some interesting papers such as this PDF from Douglas Inglis: Cognitive Grammar and Lexicography.
	Christian Uffmann at University of Siegen has his entire Introduction to Lingusitics course online, including very useful handouts on phonology, syntax, morphology and phonetics.
	Dictionary of English Words derived from Latin and Greek Sources is an incredible source of information and a must if you are interested in Greek and Latin roots and affixes. Too much to summarise here - you must explore it for yourself!
	Encyclopaedia of Linguistics has only a few entries available online but one happens to be a good article about function words.
	Fun with Words has lists of heteronyms (in the UK we call them homographs) Fun With Words: Heteronyms, contronyms (e.g. clip - to fasten, to detach), negative words with no positives (e.g. inept, gormless, dismayed, ungainly) and many more.
	George Boeree has some great language pages: English phonemic spelling, introduction to morphology and much more.
	Greek and Latin roots is one of a series of useful reference pages from a tutor at Michigan State Uni. Also covers vocabulary, homonyms, easily confused words, etc.
	IPA (international phonetic alphabet) fonts (serif, sans serif and fixed width) available for free download from University College London Dept of Phonetics and Linguistics. (I used the Sophia font when preparing a presentation about a phonemic text analysis).
	Julia Hirschberg (Columbia State Uni) is a specialist in computational linguistics. Two of her course outlines are available online, along with a host of resources such as this great PowerPoint (under her 'courses' information) on Lexical Semantics (rather technical towards the end, but includes useful slides on polysemy, homophones, homographs and ambiguity).
	Language museum has fascinating word lists. I frequently use homographs (words that are spelt the same but pronounced differently) as reference when teaching. Homophones, function words and minimal pairs (words whose pronunciation differs at only one segment, such as sheep - ship or lice - rice) also feature. Note: site takes ages to load - be patient!
	Steve Bett has a huge Linguistics site, although parts (such as the home page) seem to be missing. I have used the Dewey Spelling Frequency page (fascinating), Origins of the Alphabet and this discussion about the number of phonemes in the English Language.
	Macmillan English Dictionary has lots of useful and fascinating information such as this list of the 40 most popular new words of 2005. Also check out their classroom tips for improving dictionary skills, glossary of dictionary terms (there's also a texting glossary) and the wonderful 'Don't forget your vest and pants' about differences between British and American English.
	More Words is great for solving crosswords and other word games (use * for any number of missing letters, a hyphen for one missing letter). It is also very useful if you are looking for words that follow particular spelling or phonics patterns.
	Phonics on the web covers all basic (analytic) phonics rules and is a useful reference source. Covers blends, digraphs, syllable rules, and much more - also spelling rules such as plurals and compound words
	The Phrontistery is a fascinating site specialising in lost, forgotten and rare words. Plus interesting essays, etymology pages, lists of numerical prefixes, 2 and 3 letter Scrabble words. A huge selection of 'glossaries' include 269 words for different fabrics, 168 rare colour terms, measurements, phobias and much much more!
	RhymeZone dictionary and thesaurus is great for preparing phonics, spelling and vocabulary worksheets or lists. Type in a any word and receive a list of synonyms, antonyms, rhyming words, words with matching consonants, homophones, etc. There's also a 'Reverse Dictionary' where you can type a definition and get a word! You can even search for 'kid-safe' pictures!
	Take our Word for It (from the Institute for Etymological Research and Education) is a no nonsense friendly yet informative etymology site, updated bi-weekly. The 'Theory' page has a great overview of Etymology and where words come from. Also check out the archive and the lists of roots and prefixes.
	The Trouble with English Orthography plus discussion about alternatives! Good reading.
	THRASS UK (Teaching Handwriting Reading And Spelling Skills) have just released an excellent new version (4) of their THRASS Phoneme Machine. Now available for free download from a new dedicated site at http://www.phonememachine.com/. The programme uses moving human lips and the International Phonetic Alphabet to teach learners of all ages and abilities to read and spell in English. It is also very useful for students of linguistics, phonics, etc.
	UCL (University College London) has a prestigious Department of Linguistics and Phonetics with many resources, fonts and web tutorials. For example, take a look at their archived English pronunciation tips of the day (with audio).
	University of Oregon Yamada Language Centre more phonetic fonts inc. fonts for Macs.
	Word Detective fascinating background and histories for hundreds of words and terms. Huge archive.
	Word Play is a wonderful hot pot of information about words. If you ever wondered about the origin of the prefix - para you must read this fascinating para-ble! Other gems include un-rhyming words, triple-quadruple homonyms, contranyms (Janus words) and much more. Addictive!
	Word Sources has masses of info on Greek and Latin word origins. Latin-Greek-English Cross Reference Search - type in any word to receive a list of related roots and affixes
	World Wide Words is amazing site about 'International English from a British Point of View'. Histories of words and phrases, weird words and topical words. Warning! You could spend hours on this site.
	Writing for business and pleasure has some fascinating background information on spelling compound words. Numerous other columns include: apostrophes, 5 elements of style, email dos and don'ts, thank you letters.
Level 4-5 Literacy - Module II (or similar): Professional teaching practice
	The Chalkface Project is a large provider of materials to UK secondary schools and colleges. One of their free samples (click on Basic Literacy Skills for 16+), which they will email you a link for, is a useful 12 page document that includes teaching tips, Dolch sight words and more. Many other samples are available for spelling, writing, etc.
	The original Dolch list of 220 high frequency words compiled in 1936, plus links to later versions and adaptations.
	Dr B's lessons and resources has a great scaffolding resource for writing a five paragraph essay. Suitable for Level 2 students
	The Five Paragraph Essay is a complete site about planning and writing with separate sections covering the distinct formats of expository, narrative and persuasive essays.
	Halton Borough Council has some really well designed, highly structured writing frames (although how I originally found them from the home page is now beyond me!) - inc. reports, explanations, stories and discussion - plus guidance notes on teaching a new text-type.
	LITE (Literacy, Information and technology in Education) has some good background info on teaching reading and comprehension strategies.
	Literacy Matters has a good page of info (and further links) on text structure (Genre theory).
	Irish National Adult Literacy Agency have an excellent free writing and design booklet (PDF) to help make your documents more accessible. Notes on good layout, fonts, signposting, plain English, active voice and much more. For details of the many downloadable student resources from this site refer to the entry on our printable resources page.
	Mrs McGowan's class page has very useful reference list of words listed in groups such as consonant blends, short vowels, long vowels. Great for teaching Entry 1 and 2 phonics.
	Phonics and the Whole Word / Language Controversies 1948-1998 interesting paper on the phonics versus whole word recognition argument, from Jennifer Monaghan
	Springfield public school district has a very good writing workshop that includes an expository writing genre study in 15 lessons (narratives and persuasive writing also covered). The reading workshop has excellent coverage of comprehension strategies inc inference and explains the difference between shared and guided reading.
	updated 28/08/08 Teacher's Toolbox is mostly pages of links but has a very useful list of 20+ reading strategies - each one leading to a more detailed explanation. These include SQ3R, cloze procedures, open minded portraits, readers' theatre, directed listening activities and many more.
	Somers Central School District has some fantastic reading resources and ideas. The strategic reading area has a section on text structure where each type is accompanied by a suitable downloadable graphic organiser (writing frame / flow chart / bubbles)
	Step by Step is a programme of 100 synthetic phonics lessons for children and adults. Each lesson is complete with notes and resources and can be downloaded and printed for free from the site. Alternatively you can order the complete pack for only £5 direct from the author Mona McFee, a retired teacher who developed the system in order to teach her her son, who has Downs Syndrome, how to read. Mona believes that anyone can teach children to read using her method - and with no special training, just common sense! She also helped set up the UK branch of the (American) Reading Reform Foundation - their sole aim is to bring phonics back to the teaching of reading.
	Types of writing in the information age (Hong Kong University) has a great set of genre - purpose of text resources that were developed as the result of a research project. the resources aim to teach students how to distinguish between different types of writing (genres) including digital forms such as email and ICQ instant messaging. There are 8 great example texts (email, lCQ text message, diary, story, etc.) with three related resources ranging from simple matching (E2 upwards ) through to rewriting and discussion. There are also very useful accompanying teaching notes for each text - reminding teachers of the key features of each genre.
	Utah Students at Risk has many online resources including several high frequency and 'sight' word lists including Dolch lists and Fry's list of some fantastic reading resources and ideas. The strategic reading area has a section on text structure where each type is accompanied by a suitable downloadable graphic organiser (writing frame / flow chart / bubbles)
	Virtual Salt is a fascinating site from Robert Harris, a retired English professor. There are masses of teaching ideas such as these Recommendations for writing comments on student papers. Useful reference page about roots and prefixes along with many more pages including punctuation, conjunctions, short stories, plagiarism and critical thinking.
	David Wray is Professor of Literacy Education at Warwick University. His site contains many interesting links and some useful writing frames for E3-L2.
Level 4-5 Literacy - Module III (or similar): Language in a Social Context
NEW LITERACY STUDIES and LITERACY AS A SOCIAL PRACTICE
	David Barton's paper (PDF) A social practice view of language, literacy and numeracy makes interesting reading and provides useful background material for the Module 3 Essay.
	Changing Faces of Adult literacy, Numeracy and ESOL: a critical history of policy and practice 1970 - 2000. The site is not yet complete but if you want an overview of ABE in the last 6 decades take a look at the fantastic timelines.
	Literacies is the online magazine of the Movement for Canadian Literacy. If you have difficulty understanding exactly what is meant by New Literacy Studies read The New Literacy Studies (Guy Ewing) from the Spring 2003 edition (also available as a very readable pdf newsletter). NOTE: these links checked 28/08/08. All work, but be patient - very slow to load.
	Current Issues in Comparative Education is an online journal from Columbia university. Volume 5 no 2 May 2003 (Literacy, Education, and Development) includes an excellent article from Brian Street (King's College London) What's "new" in New Literacy Studies (PDF). There is also an interesting response / critique (PDF) to this article (Joyce Kim)which discusses limitations of NLS, such as transferability to pedagogical practice and a lack of concrete suggestions for classroom practitioners.
	Dept Linguistics and English Language at Lancaster University is currently participating in research into literacy practices particularly adult literacy). Working papers are available on line including this PDF: Moral Panics about Literacy by David Barton 2000 (very useful for the Module 3 essay!)
	Powerful Literacies is a fascinating and very readable book (also available from Amazon). Invaluable for Module 3 essay.
	RaPAL (Research and Practice in Adult Literacy) produce a bulletin three times a year. Well worth the subscription fee and an excellent source of research, critiques and practical ideas. If you believe that literacy is more than a set of narrow skills (and don't think that the Adult Literacy Curriculum is the 'be all and end all' of literacy teaching) then this is the journal for you.
	Communities in Scotland for the latest news in adult literacy and numeracy, and community learning and development in Scotland. Development and training, pathfinder projects, learners zone, plus links to research and useful resources. Take a look at the new Adult Literacy and Numeracy Framework for Scotland (PDF) which, unlike its English counterpart, is based on a social practices /literacy in the community model.
RESEARCH - VARIOUS (see also our Research and Development section below)
	ESRC (Economic and Social Research Council) Adult Basic Education Seminar Series provides a fascinating set of papers, notes and reflections from a series of six seminars held between 2002 and 2004. Seminar 1 (Adult Basic Education as a Social Practice) is of particular interest and was a great help to me when writing my module 3 essay!
	Centre for Literacy (University of Quebec) has an annotated bibliography Adult Basic Education: Impact of Policy on Practice (2004) with useful summaries of core readings such as Adult Literacy, Learning Disabilities and Technology, Adult literacy and Television, Seniors and Literacy, and Math for learning; math for life.
	NIACE (The National Institute of Adult Continuing Education - England and Wales) has many useful policy and research documents including this paper from Mary Hamilton: Commentary on the NFER Research Report - Progress in Adult Literacy
	updated 28/08/08 RIPAL (Research in Practice in Adult Literacy) is a great source of recent projects and research such as: Learning About Participatory Approaches in Adult Literacy Education PDF (six research in practice studies) 2000 available as a free 200 page PDF document (includes 3 chapters by Mary Norton)
ESOL Levels 2, 3 and 4
	ACER (Association of Colleges in the Eastern Region) have a selection of ESOL Level 4 resources arranged in 4 modules.

Examination links - practice paper based and online exams and assignments, information on standards
	AQA has past papers and answer keys (now updated with 2004 exams in addition to examples from 2002). The examiners' reports on previous basic skills \ key skills exams give a very useful insight into exactly which types of questions students find difficult in the Level 1\2 numeracy and literacy tests. NEW (thanks to Ruth Wood, Pro Training, Nottingham for this link) see also their complete list of downloadable past GCSE papers (the Foundation Maths and English papers often provide useful Lit/Num practice).
	Cambridge English for Speakers of Other Languages Exams - Skills for Life has loads of sample exams papers for reading, writing and listening, such as ESOL Entry 1 Reading. Now also has SfL past papers for E1, E2, E3 reading and writing.
	City and Guilds Basic Skills: all the latest news plus details of new accreditation for Entry Level (short task/portfolio or assignment route) and Level 1/2 tests. The download page has all the latest documents including practice past papers in Level 1 and 2 literacy / numeracy. Plus practice on-screen tests for literacy and numeracy New exemplar Entry Level short tasks and assignments in literacy and numeracy. ESOL practice assignments - multimode (i.e. S/L, reading, writing) or single mode available in two topics at E1, E2, E3. ICT as a Skill for Life awards available soon in five topic areas.
	Edexcel has useful practice papers available for all sections and levels of literacy (reading, writing, S&L) and numeracy (number, measure, data). Plus a few different versions here.
	updated 27/08/08 Edexcel : Services for Centres : Onscreen Testing online Level 1 and 2 online practice tests for Communication, Application of Number and IT (two at each level and subject). These tests are identical to adult numeracy and adult literacy. New on-screen tests available for Entry 3 Numeracy and Entry 3 reading. 4 practice tests available. Thanks to Ruth Colclough, Newcastle College, for this link
	Key skills 4 U for students revising for Level 2 literacy or numeracy (identical to Key Skills L2 number and communication). Use the Key Skills Trainer to practice or test yourself in any area, or enter the Symtel Files to play an interactive game that also boosts your skills (needs audio and a fast connection).
	Move On is aimed at higher level basic skills students (i.e. those aiming to take Level 1 or 2 tests in literacy or numeracy). Loads of free resources including on-screen and printable tests (at least four at each level and subject), quizzes aimed at specific areas such as work, children and health. Find your nearest test centre. For providers and practitioners: promotional material, an online version of the national test toolkit, schemes of work, plans for taster sessions and 30 hour courses, etc. A great new feature: build customised exams from specific curriculum elements (currently only produces on-screen tests but it promises that printed versions will be available soon)
	updated 27/08/08 OCR have practice paper based tests (including Functional Skills at L1 and L2) and etests for levels 1 and 2 literacy and numeracy
	Trinity College London now has sample ESOL Skills for Life examinations available for Entry 1, 2, 3 (reading and writing) and Level 1-2 (writing only). Now with many past papers for E1, E2, E3. Plus great videos of speaking and listening exams and useful resource including lovely sample maps to practise giving directions.
	QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, Basic Skills Section) for the latest news on adult basic skills qualifications. Download example Level 1 & 2 Lit and Num papers and useful test specifications that give details of context, structure, scope, pass marks etc. (Link provided by Carol Wilson, programme co-ordinator for ABS at Rotherham College. Thank you)

UK Agencies and DIUS (Dept for Innovation, Universities and Skills) sites
	updated 27/08/08 Basic Skills Agency has now merged with NIACE. It has news on Basic Skills (across all sectors) and there are many free downloadable publications which are now much easier to find. These include a great series of useful embedded learning leaflets entitled 'Survival Skills in the workplace' (retail, hairdressing, motor vehicle and many others) that give an overview of the literacy and numeracy skills needed in each vocation.
	Basic Skills Agency Resource Centre is part of the Institute of Education Library and is a reference collection of basic skills materials (catalogue is online). Visitors use the centre for evaluating and reviewing published materials that are currently available in the UK.
	Maths4Life is a 3 year project (2004-07) funded by the DfES Skills for Life unit aimed to stimulate a positive attitude to numeracy in both teachers and students. The idea is that initial research projects will be used as the basis of pathfinders (activities which test out the points raised in research document) and lead to the production of resources, case studies, lesson plans, etc. This site suggested by Ruth Wood, Pro-Training, Nottingham (thank you).
	National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics is a DfES site aimed at enhancing professional development in Maths teachers across all sectors and levels. There are news items, and links to some very interesting blogs from maths teachers, etc.
	QIA Excellence Gateway is the portal to many Adult Education sites including ACL (Adult and Community Learning), FERL (Further Education) and Learning for Living ( for staff working with learners with learning difficulties and/or disabilities in various contexts). With access to to many vocational and academic resources and forums. Check out the new Basic Skills for Adults with Learning Difficulties area (under Skills for Life) for lots of resource ideas for Dyslexia, etc.
	Read Write Plus UK Government site aimed at adult learners and providers. The Learning page links to practice on-line tests based on Levels 1 and 2 of the new adult literacy and numeracy curricula. updated 27/08/08 Online, interactive versions of the literacy, numeracy (both linked to Access for All), pre-Entry, and ESOL curricula. These all come with 'personal notebooks' allowing you to print, save or copy information, curriculum elements, etc. to your own documents. Now includes National Occupational Standards Mappings area (adult literacy and numeracy standards mapped to NVQs). These maps are intended for use in staff training and development within each sector but are also useful for study support tutors and co-ordinators. Very useful document bank: view or download all the Skills for Life learner materials (now includes teacher notes), all the diagnostic assessment task sheets (literacy, numeracy, ESOL, Dyslexia), and much more. TIP: it is very difficult to find things on this site (including the Site Map, which may help)
	Skills for Life - The National Strategy for Improving Adult Literacy and Numeracy Skills here's the complete document in a (relatively!) easy-to-read online format.
	Skills for life Web Site (Diagnostic Assessment) provides useful support include download patches for the ICT version of the Diagnostic Assessment package (available free from DfES). critical update patch available July 2005
	DfES Standards Site for schools is huge and difficult to navigate. Useful areas include interactive teaching programs for maths, and for literacy or this combined list.
	Tools Library is a brand new DfES site for trialling Skills for Life assessment tools. Paper and computer based materials will soon be made available for both generic and workplace screening and initial assessment. Initial Assessment materials now available for download - complete with audio files for assessing listening skills.

UK college, local and community basic skills sites and blogs (more resources on our printable resource sites page)
	Bodmin Link into Learning is one of 30 centres across Cornwall providing free help with reading, writing, spelling. numeracy and computer skills. Many listed resources are simply links to resources on other quality sites mentioned on this page such as City College Manchester and Skillswise. However, there are some good curriculum linked, in-house PDF resources if you look carefully. Try these: 34 page colour, illustrated E3 numeracy facts; 6 page worksheet on negative numbers; 8 pages on percentages; and E2 shapes.
	Essential Skills Support Unit for Hampshire and Isle of Wight has useful resource links. Plus two very useful 'Linking Resources to Delivery' 40 page PDF files which list literacy (PDF) and numeracy (PDF) elements (E3-L2) with links to related online activities.
	Jean Thomas has a site for teachers and numeracy students at Henley College. It has had a major update. Lots of new Word worksheets. Try the area & perimeter worksheet (under Measure) or the place value and number examples.
	City College Manchester has an excellent ESOL site (great for Literacy too) with printable and online worksheets, online activities and quizzes and many useful links. See our embedding ILT and Printable Worksheets pages for more on this site.
	Chris Jackson's site at City College Manchester has many curriculum linked online and printable activities. Check out the teachers page for masses of good links. For students there are interactive quizzes including "Discloze" spelling games and much more. Plus some great E1/E2 practice assignments. Chris's new Skills for Life blog also interesting links, resources and news.
	Hillingdon Adult Education Community ESOL project has a fascinating report on their approach to teaching English in the community in North London. Plus loads of excellent really high quality resources including this PDF selection of reading materials.
	Peter Symonds College in Winchester have masses of excellent curriculum linked interactive resources, please visit our Embedding ILT pages for details
	Talent (Training Adult Literacy, ESOL and Numeracy Teachers) Another site hosted by Tower Hamlets College. After registering (free) you have access to a huge range of downloadable teaching materials and links (for tutors to use with their learners and for tutor trainers). Visit our printable resource sites for more details.
	Tower Hamlets College Curriculum Intranet log on as a guest. Printable resources for all subject areas including 100+ numeracy docs (includes many handy "Learning Checks" on ratio, negative numbers, etc. and a useful level 1 numeracy assessment).

Research and Development (see also our level 4 literacy research section)
	Basic Skills Agency & NIACE Shared practice area contains 100s of useful free PDF booklets. Try these two for starters: Speaking and listening skills for young people on work experience - a practical guide for teachers and trainers Jan 2008 (30 pages) and Adult literacy learners' difficulties in reading - an exploratory study July 20004 (144 pages).
	Dept Linguistics and English Language at Lancaster University is currently participating in research into literacy practices particularly adult literacy).
	EFF (Equipped for the Future) is a 'national standards-based educational improvement initiative for adult basic education and English language learning' and provides a fascinating insight into US basic skills teaching. All very familiar but with different terminology. interesting examples of the teaching/learning cycle in action and they have some excellent Hot Topics newsletters /research such as this one on teaching adults to read with understanding and Using Maths to solve problems and communicate.
	NRDC (National Research and Development Centre for Adult Literacy and Numeracy) has all the latest research documents along with related practitioner resources such as this excellent section on teaching measures at Entry Level

Assistive Software and embedding ILT (visit our Embedding ILT page for suggested interactive online activities)
	ArtSigns is an excellent 'online glossary for BSL' designed for Art and Design students. Look up a word, read the definition and watch the sign in a video, see an image and related words.
	Clicker4 is an excellent writing support tool that I have used in Pre Entry / E1 literacy classes. Masses of free grids available at Learning Grids which has a special download section for adult learners.
	Dasher is amazing FREE assistive software that allows users to write using only their eyes.
	Harnessing Technology to Serve Adult Literacy interesting site that includes teaching problems, solutions, teaching ideas and links.
	Inclusive Technology sell a range of assistive software and inclusive technology; they also provide training and are very helpful.
	Inspiration is a great planning and brainstorming tool that can be used at all levels. Insert your own pictures, convert mind maps to MS Word lists and much more.
	Level Learning UK offers impartial advice during the demonstration of assistive software. They do not sell software and give expert advice on all aspects of assistive software including: speaking instead of typing, creative brainstorming and planning, accurate proofreading and working co-operatively with your computer.
	One Switch is full of ideas, resources and games aimed at moderate to severely learning / physically disabled people using a computer with a switch. One of their aims is to make mainstream and classic arcade games available to switch users - they even have DIY info on making your own switches.
	updated 27/08/08 SIP (symbols inclusion project) is a collaboration between Widgit (below) and Warwickshire Education Authority. There are some wonderful free download packs (need Widgit Writing with Symbols) aimed at schoolchildren but several suitable pre Entry - E1.
	TechDis is a JISC (Joint Information Systems Committee) funded advisory service that aims 'to enhance provision for disabled students and staff in higher, further and specialist education and adult and community learning, through the use of technology.' Many free help sheets and downloads such as the User Preference Toolbar to control the look and size of web pages.
	textHelp a brilliant program used extensively in Entry 1 literacy this year. We have used it for proofreading student projects and for reading out web pages that would otherwise be inaccessible to non- or beginning readers.
	updated 27/08/08 Using Symbols With Adults (DOC) is an excellent online FERL article (now on the QIA Excellence Gateway) written by Imogen Howarth. Essential reading for those that are new to symbols.
	Widgit Writing with Symbols use this amazing program in pre-Entry / Entry 1 literacy. Allows creation of both printed materials and interactive 'environments' (we have used it to create sample "thank you" letters and for work on describing objects and asking questions). See also our Symbol World link on our ILT page.

Learning Styles and Teaching
	ARKS (Adult Returners Key Skills) is an EU funded project that has some fantastic, very large PDF resources covering: Study skills, IT, Communication, Numeracy, Participation and Tutor Training. There are worksheets, tutor notes, examples and much more.
	BBC Keyskills: an excellent site for both students and tutors. In the Extra section there are some quick learning style quizzes - find out if you are right or left brained; visual, auditory or kinaesthetic; etc..
	Chaminade College has a useful one page table to help you determine your learning style (V, A or Kinaesthetic - Tactile)
	Do you think you are overworked? "Changing notions of teacher professionalism inthe Further Education sector" is a fascinating paper by Farzana Shain of Keele University.
	We don't normally list links pages but emTech have 15000 educational links arranged in 200 + categories including Learning Theories, multicultural education, Teaching Resources and Constructivism
	English Learning Area is a huge site from Tasmania - background theory (interesting stuff on literacy that answers questions such as: What is a text? What is literacy?), teaching ideas (try beaut ideas!), a fabulous section on spelling strategies and much more.
	The Graphic Organizer has fantastic examples of every imaginable type of mind map, grid, matrix and flow chart. Most are created with Inspiration (see our Assistive Software section)
	Big Dog's ISD pages are stuffed full of training advice, including an excellent chapter on Learning Styles (VAK, Briggs, Gardner) which are discussed both individually and as whole.
	University of West of England in Bristol has an interesting workshop on learning styles with good background on Kolb Cycle.
	Lancaster University provides study support through its Student Learning Development Centre which has masses of wonderful study materials including grammar and punctuation PowerPoints, hints on note-taking and much more.
	Learningandteaching is a wonderful trio of sites (teaching, learning, reflection) from retired academic, James Atherton. The contents page of the learning sections looks like a mind map showing the relationship between different teaching and learning theories. Too much to describe - just go and take a look!
	Learning Matters - York has details of more than 11, 000 courses in North Yorkshire (not just basic skills) and (it used to have?) a very good online learning styles questionnaire based on Honey and Mumford / Kolb where you could find out if you are an activist, reflector, theorist or pragmatist. (Can't find hi slink on 18/10/05)
	Lifelong Learning at Bath Spa University College has an amazing ItsLife area run by Jim Crawley, head of Lifelong Learning (previously the Post Compulsory Education and Training Department). Full of information, links to background theory on adult learning and learning styles, and all the latest news, theories and controversies in adult education. Excellent for those embarking on Level 4 Literacy and Numeracy teaching courses, Cert Ed, PGCE, or City and Guilds 7407.
	Learning Styles Interactive Diagnostic Screening (Ross Cooper - LLU, South Bank University) really is a great online assessment tool that does not rely purely on reading skills. Best explained by this graphic. Find out if you are: visual holistic, visual sequential, verbal holistic or verbal sequential. There is also information on dyslexia screening and a really useful teacher's toolkit page with ideas for teaching learners in each group and encouraging independent learning.
	Mindmaps.Moonfruit.com contains an incredible selection of downloadable hand-painted mind maps covering everything from de-cluttering, breathing properly and silence through to the symptoms of diabetes and personal finances. Great for introducing mind-mapping to students and for demonstrating their many uses (planning, organising thoughts, posters, transmitting information to others, etc. - see this mind map for more ideas!) Large graphics are free for personal use but the author encourages you to contribute to a diabetes charity. There is also a brilliant set of 15 templates to get you started - one is shown left.
	North Carolina University has an online Learning Styles Questionnaire. Instant results on a sliding scale in 4 areas: active - reflective, sequential - global, sensing - intuitive, visual - verbal. With background information and teaching and learning ideas. Probably best for higher level learners (and their tutors!). Suggested by Bob Davis, Basic Skills tutor - British Army.
	Peter Patsula's complete interactive tutorial on five theories of learning (Vygotsky, Bruner, Bandura, Carroll and Gagne) with visual effects and audio. Each theory is split into principles, examples and strategies with a final quiz to check your knowledge.
	Teacher Vision is a paying site but has some good areas where you can glean ideas. Great graphic organiser section with 40 organisers (all subjects - small screen shots can be seen): stories, conflict, prediction, cause & effect, vocabulary, antonyms, etc.
	VARK online or printable (external PDF) learning styles questionnaire is particularly good for Entry level students as it has only 13 questions. There are also special versions for young people and athletes. Used in my preEntry - Entry 1 class.

Learning Difficulties and Disabilities
	The British Dyslexia Association has lots of useful information and a shop with an interesting selection of resources.
	Check the map was put together so that anyone in the UK (parents, teachers, health care workers, etc.) working in Special Educational Needs can 'stop having to go all around the houses to find simple, local information - across all sectors'. Just click the map or type in your postcode to find your local dyslexia association, holiday accommodation, transcription services, BSL resources, etc.
	Dyscalculia and Dyslexia Interest Group - Loughborough University has help and ideas for those teaching mathematics to such students, useful help sheets such as this PDF: 'Helping Dyscalculic & Dyslexic Students with Maths'. Plus student check list, and a must-read article 'Damn the Three Times Table' written by Jess Blackburn, who is dyscalculic but not dyslexic.
	01/09/08 dyslexics.org.uk is an interesting site run by a remedial reading tutor and is aimed primarily at the parents of school aged children - not adults with reading difficulties. The site owner has similar feelings to Hugo Kerr (below) - she is not denying that dyslexia exists but suggests it is caused by the opaque English orthography and the way it is taught. Whether you agree with this or not, the site in undeniably a great source of numerous references and links to research articles on dyslexia and reading. I also found the 'basic principles for teaching with synthetic phonics' very illuminating.
	Dyslexia at College is a great source of information and study tips for college and university students. Get help with giving presentations, note-taking, essay writing and more. Thanks to Ellen Lessner, Abingdon & Witney College for this link.
	26/08/08 Focus on Disability - the site has a wide range of information for disabled people and their carers in the UK. It has a wealth of contact details about organisations and agencies who may be able to help you make it the most comprehensive not for profit disabilities website in the UK. Thanks to David from ITBuddy for this link.
	A framework for understanding Dyslexia is a very useful DfES site to accompany the free paper-based resource folder of the same name.
	Hugo's Web site contains a huge 200 page downloadable e-book entitled: The Cognitive Psychology of Literacy Teaching: Reading, Writing, Spelling, Dyslexia (& a bit besides). This might sound rather dry but is actually an absorbing read - although I must admit I was drawn in by the appendices - most which are in poetry! The author's sceptical, yet reasoned, views on dyslexia are fascinating. Note also that the large PDF book crashes when you try to read it online - best to download first and then load up in Acrobat reader. (Apparently it needs the very latest version of Acrobat - v9? - but the author is happy to email the book directly to anyone who encounters problems, his email is on the site).
	ldpride.net has a great 'Learning styles and multiples intelligences' online test and very useful, straightforward information on hidden disabilities. Recommended by Tal Levy (thank you) who suggests you check your own knowledge of LD by doing this LD/ADD Myth or Reality challenge.
	Dyslexia Action (previously known as The Dyslexia Institute) has some very useful pages including a dyslexia checklist for adult learners lexia in different age groups, along with hints and tips.
	International Dyslexia Association has a special section for adults with many useful downloads in Word and PDF format (spelling, multisensory teaching, social and emotional problems, dysgraphia, etc.).
	Learning Differences has lots of useful information plus a few select resources including the fascinating mnemonic clues and a huge selection of compound words.
	Learning Disabilities Resource Community has masses of online learning style resources including an excellent (but long) questionnaire based on Gardiner's 8 intelligences. It's a bit of a fiddle to register (free) but well worth the effort.

Study Support and Study Skills
	updated 27/08/08 James Cook Uni has some excellent online study skills resources - take a look at the mindmapping and time management skills sections.
	Know It All has been set up by Knowsley LEA and North West learning Grid. Loads of study and revision tips, plus sections on 'How we learn' and developing personal skills such as confidence and memory.
	Lancaster University provides study support through its Student Learning Development Centre which has masses of wonderful study materials including grammar and punctuation PowerPoints, hints on note-taking and much more.
	Pearson Adult Learning Centre has online resources such as grammar and comprehension quizzes, along with study skills ideas and handouts and much more.
	University of Greenwich has some great downloadable skills for learning resources including note taking, mind mapping, managing exam anxiety. Some suitable for Basic Skills students, others (e.g. referencing, citing, critical thinking) for tutors doing level 3 and 4 qualifications.
	updated 27/08/08 University of Hull Study Advice Services has some brilliant help sheets on study skills, writing and maths. Some are advanced but many are useful for level 2 students (try apostrophes, plurals, time management, maths phobia). There's also a fabulous new series of mindmaps showing: famous people with dyslexia/dyspraxia, weaknesses of dyslexia/dyspraxia, strengths of dyslexia/dyspraxia, writing skills, study stress, revision, memory, SQ3R and much more.

More links on our embedding ILT and printable resources pages

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT	RESOURCES	POLICY AND INFORMATION
General (all levels)	Good books 26/10/08	Agencies, DIUS sites
Level 2 Learner Support	Embedded learning	Exams (inc. practice papers) and standards
General (levels 3 and 4)	Hands-on resources	Research
Level 3 Literacy	Good software	LEARNING AND TEACHING
Level 3 Numeracy	College & community resource sites	Learning disabilities - difficulties 01/09/08
Level 4 Literacy	KEY:star site new site	Learning styles and teaching
Level 4 Numeracy	More resources on our other links pages: Printable Resources and Embedding ILT and on the BLOG	Study support
Level 2, 3, 4 ESOL		Using assistive Software

Literacy Connections has useful information for volunteer tutors (and others) about the terms used in literacy / reading teaching such as guided reading, paired reading, visualisation, etc. Lots of other good stuff too.