A video of Taylor Swift songs (lyrics) that enables learners to identify language features such as personification, similes, metaphors, rhetorical questions, first person, direct address, hyperbole, alliteration and informal language. Learners could also question and explore the use of punctuation used in the songs.
Editor's notes
Marvellous and exceedingly topical. Makes a great ice breaker or starter. Well done Steph :)
Level
Level 1
Level 2
English
FE L1.12 Recognise that language & other textual features can be varied to suit different audiences & purposes
FE L2.14 Understand how textual features/devices can shape meaning for different audiences/purposes
FE L2.17 Analyse texts, of different levels of complexity, recognising their use of vocabulary and identifying levels of formality and bias
Topic: Fitness and giving opinions on a Joe Wicks fitness app after watching a video clip.
Uses NCFE spec for task 1 in listening and speaking exam. Teacher created content following NCFE guidance documents. I hope it is accurate and welcome feedback in case this does not represent the criteria.
Created for a student who needs a lot of support around speaking and listening. Can be adapted to much freer discussion with more cognitively able students.
Editor's note
Level
Entry Level 3
English
FE E3.3 Communicate information & opinions clearly on a range of topics
FE E3.4 Respond appropriately to questions on a range of straightforward topics
FE E3.2 Make requests & ask concise questions using appropriate language in different contexts
FE E3.1 Identify & extract relevant information & detail in straightforward explanations
FE E3.5 Follow & understand the main points of discussions
FE E3.6 Make relevant contributions to group discussions about straightforward topics
Originally used as a diagnostic tool for Level 2 ESOL at the beginning of term - a short 'quiz' created in Google forms about The Runner poem submitted by Jean Morten (2023) You don't need to log into Google to complete it but if you do you can make a copy and adapt it for your own learners, and your own email address to collect responses, etc.
Simon from Here to Teach (HTT) has many wonderful work-throughs of Edexcel and C&G Functional Maths papers (E3 , L1, L2). Well paced with very excellent audio and video, showing clear methods and working out c. Marvellous for learners to watch over and over as many times as needed. Both non-calculator and non-calculator papers are covered. This paper has a floristry theme but provides practice and revision for any vocational area (or indeed no vocational area!).
I recommend subscribing to Simon's channel to keep up-to-date with all his maths videos.
How to answer the language features question on the Edexcel Pearson Level 2 Functional Skills reading paper.
Editor's notes
Clearly explains what is expected in order to Answer Q10 (most sections of the slideshow also work well with FS from other awarding organisations) and how it is marked. Followed by questions for the learner (answers provided at the end) 3.5 minute slideshow. No voice over.
Level
Level 2
English
FE L2.14 Understand how textual features/devices can shape meaning for different audiences/purposes
How to use speech marks specifically for the L2 Functional Skills (FS) English Writing Exams with Edexcel / Pearson. How and why to use expert opinions, and when to use commas.(FS)
Editor's note
Level
Level 2
English
FE L2.20 Punctuate writing correctly using a wide range of punctuation markers e.g. colons, commas, inverted commas, apostrophes, quotation marks
How to identify facts and opinions at level 1 in prep for Functional Skills Reading exam (with some tips for how these skills can be used in a piece of writing too!).
Editor's notes
You tube: 3 minute slideshow with voice over - I especially like the tip about looking out for adjectives.
Level
Level 1
Level 2
GCSE L1-5
English
FE L1.11 Identify meanings in texts & distinguish between fact & opinion
FE L2.18 Follow an argument, identifying different points of view & distinguishing fact from opinion
Language feature spotting in songs - Eurovision through the ages edition! 8 songs that have all won Eurovision and use various language features. Suitable for L1 and L2.
Editor's note
Very topical and jolly 3 minute video. Lyrics appear clearly, word by word, on screen. Covers rhetorical questions, simile, repetition and more. Teachers will probably want to watch in advance and formulate their own question prompts. PS. Some of these songs made me feel old!
Level
Level 1
Level 2
GCSE L1-5
English
FE L1.12 Recognise that language & other textual features can be varied to suit different audiences & purposes
FE L2.14 Understand how textual features/devices can shape meaning for different audiences/purposes
