Plan, compose and draft

A reading comprehension and vocabulary activity suitable for both ESOL and Literacy / Functional Skills. The activities are based on a BBC News article about John Cronin’s online business, John’s Crazy Socks. John, who has Down’s Syndrome, is a co-founder of the business, along with his father, Mark.

A set of writing activity cards that are easily differentiated for groups of learners working at a range of levels. Main focus is purpose of text.

Editor’s note
Please share your ideas on suitable objects to use for this really creative task. If you are a registered contributor you can log in and leave a comment – otherwise email me using the Contact us link at the bottom of any page.

One of the Level 2 Functional English Writing exam papers asked students to write a speech.

I found a speech online and showed them how to use repeated words, emphasis, subheadings and to think about their audience. I then used the Drink Aware website to create this resource to enable students to practise speech writing.

This resource could also be used to practise writing letters or emails to colleagues to encourage them to think about drink driving, and to practise other aspects of writing styles for Level 2 exams.

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.

This is a resource that was designed for use in a computer classroom. It allows learners to research what is needed in a cover letter to find employment. For this resource to work most successfully I would advise that learners carry out the ‘research’ stage (Tasks 1 & 2) of the lesson in pairs or small groups.

Two sets of reading comprehension questions and a writing task – all based on a thank you letter to a friend. Ideal for, and fully mapped to, E2 Functional English or any literacy lesson that is focusing on informal letters.

This wonderful pack of differentiated resources is ideal for mixed ability classes from Entry 1 through to Level 2. It takes the learner through:

• the layout of formal and informal letters
• formal and informal language
• typical vocabulary for formal letters
• sentences and paragraphs
• writing a range of letters
• revision and/or assessment exercises

Includes writing prompts, task sheets, matching /sorting cards, and a many cut and stick exercises.

Fully mapped to the Functional English writing criteria.