Functional English - writing

A simple activity to get learners to think about using a variety of conjunctions to extend simple sentences and add detail. Designed to revise using conjunctions, which learners can then apply to further writing activities.

An engaging and interesting lesson plan and note taking worksheet for a session using short film trailers to develop email writing skills.

A set of 9 email templates / writing frames for all levels.
Long ones, short ones, plain ones, shaded ones, some with proof reading tips, one with a focus on using conjunctions. Pick and choose to suit your learners.

With a useful Functional English mapping chart listing all the coverage and range writing statements for each level from E1 – L2.

[img_assist|nid=5297|title=|desc=|link=popup|align=left|width=100|height=70]A functional skills practice writing task for English at E3-L2. Learners write to the Bayfords, recent winners of the £148m Euro Millions jackpot, suggesting what they could spend the money on to help others (or themselves!).

Could be linked to maths: examining costs, interest, odds of winning etc. and discussions around spending, working, and life after a big lottery win could be undertaken.

Layout reflects the City & Guilds exam format for E3 and L1/2.

I developed this simple resource initially as a speaking and listening exercise but quickly discovered I could extend it into a writing activity. The questions are designed not to be too personal. I have used it several times and it has worked well with learners from Entry 1 to Level 2. I particularly like the fact that learners have produced some really excellent writing, which is usually what they find the most difficult.

PPT slides with common errors.
Originally designed for a GCSE class, it can also be used with L1/L2 learners.

Editor’s note: covers a range of common errors found at E3-L2. Easily adapted to suit your students’ levels and/or to
include real mistakes from your students’ work.

A set of Power Point slides to get Functional Skills students writing.
I use it towards the end of lessons to get them doing some free writing and to demonstrate whatever they have been working on in the lesson.
Ideas include: smoking, binge drinking, pets, tattoos, Christmas, mobile phones, changing laws, cars and more!

Embedded E3-L1 Functional English (spelling and vocabulary) for
L1-2 carpentry, painting & decorating, and construction courses. Match the name of the tools, fault or material to the correct items.

L1/2 factsheet and worksheet on bracketing and listing commas.
Useful for underpinning L1-2 Functional English writing skills.

Aimed at E3-L1 Functional Skills groups but could be used with higher / lower levels and adult literacy groups. It should generate plenty of discussion, too! A scaffolded step by step approach helps learners discuss, plan and draft their writing.

A PowerPoint presentation supplements the task sheet. There are facts and pictures to generate interest and to help students recognise some of the dangers involved.

Fully mapped to the Functional English criteria.