Teacher guidance and curricula

This resource explains how and why we use the form 'had had' in English. This usage can be difficult to explain and even harder for native and non-native speakers/learners to grasp as it is used less frequently these days but still seen in more formal texts. 

It is useful for those trying to teach the topic or as part of a class session.  Use the resource/information whichever way suits you and your learners get the best out of it. 

For Level 1-2 ESOL and possibly Functional Skills English

Editor's note

This is a medium term plan (MTP) / scheme of work (SoW) of 12 lessons designed to equip students with the skills needed to complete the Functional Skills English SLC component of the Pearson assessment in the final lesson. The scheme includes 9 PPT lessons (and one PDF worksheet for lesson 6) which build the skills needed for the assessment and lead to the students creating their presentations and researching their discussion topics in lessons 10 and 11.

Five scenarios and tasks designed to practice for the discussion part of the speaking exam (NCFE task 2; new spec). 

Topics include watching sport, fitness clubs, life skills, transferable work skills and alternative school provision (learning at home and in the community).

Is desired, the sheet can be cut up into 5 different tasks to use on different occasions / with different groups. 

Editor's note

This lesson gives students the opportunity to discuss fundraising and practise reading skills (scanning and reading for detail). The reading text focuses on Mick Cullen, also known as ‘SpeedoMick’, and his long distance walks for charity. The lesson encourages students to try to empathise with Mick and better understand his background, character and motivations. Themes of mental health are also prominent and so it is advised you check with your learners first/use your own professional judgement before doing the optional video task.

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.