Discussion points

A poem on the theme of shopping and food.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion around shops, using technology, buying local produce and community spirit.

Editor's notes

Super for many levels and situations - includes a list of suggested questions/prompts.

A short poem on the theme of jobs and careers.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion around jobs, ambitions and qualifications.  Can also be used as a basis for written work.

Editor's notes

Super for many levels and situations - includes a list of suggested questions/prompts.

A short poem on the theme of food.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion around food production and carbon footprint or the ethics of food choices. Could also be used as a basis for written work.

Editor's notes

I love this because it works on so many different levels!

Short set of slides about different poppies used for Remembrance Day, to be used as a discussion prompt covering the British Values of Mutual Respect and Tolerance, and Individual Liberty.

Editor's notes

Super discussion prompt for the time around Nov 11th. Includes information about red, white, purple and black poppies - along with a link to a thought-provoking video from Benjamin Zephaniah. For Functional English, ESOL and wider use.

This lesson is based around the story of Birkenhead resident Charlie Wright, who famously refused to leave his house when the local council decided to demolish the estate around it. Students have the opportunity to discuss themes of community, identity and change. Students watch a short documentary about Charlie from the BBC archives and answer comprehension questions. Charlie's story provides a context for a role play task whereby learners have to decide how best to regenerate Charlie's lost neighbourhood.

Reading, writing and discussion tasks based on this news story from the Metro website: 'Bored' security guard draws eyes on £740,000 painting in gallery | Metro News

For E3, L1,L2 Functional Skills English. 

Editor's notes

A lovely engaging story with a wide range of reading questions, three writing tasks (article/blog, letter, description) and a discussion prompt.

Slides designed to support delivery of Gateway's EDSQ (Essential Digital Skills Qualification), Unit 5 (Being Safe and Responsible Online) at Entry Level 3 and Level 1, with embedded Functional Skills English activities at L1 and L2. This set of slides includes skills from sections 3 (Communication) .  The slides cover: how to report safety concerns, public Wi-Fi, Health and Safety and other online risks. Also many useful links to YouTube videos and other online learning applications. 

Two texts on the theme of Ableist slurs and language accompanied by a selection of reading practice questions written in the style of Edexcel reading papers at Level 2. Includes SOME Level 1 style questions, too.

Editor's notes

Two topical and thought-provoking texts that would also make a excellent prompts for discussion on ableist language. Text 1 (Guardian) is short (could be used for Level 1) and reports on Lizzo's removal of an ableist slur from her new song.

A series of Level 2 reading exam practice questions, written in the style of Edexcel, using a short text on the sexist branding of football boots (boots for boys).

Editor's notes

A very useful, topical and thought-provoking text that would also make a good discussion prompt. 14 reading questions covering organisational and language features, vocabulary and synonyms, main points and detail, fact/opinion and recognising informal language. 

Slides designed to support delivery of Gateway's EDSQ (Essential Digital Skills Qualification), Unit 4 (Transaction) at Entry Level and Level 1, with embedded Functional Skills English activities at L1 and L2. This set of slides includes skills from sections 3 (Communication) and 4 (Transaction) of the standards.  The slides cover: online banking and buying, filling in secure forms with bank details, digital  footprints and using security systems such as Captcha, and much more. Also many useful links to YouTube videos and other online learning applications.