Contextual Resources

Read an example of written instructions that include several typical layout features of instructional texts. 
Followed by a choice of writing tasks to complete.

Suitable for Entry 3 through to Level 2 English Functional Skills.

Editor's note

Love the wide appeal of this resource: the sample instructions are those left for a babysitter but also include pets and cooking! The writing tasks cover preparing for a job interview or how to play a game (for example, online or board games).

A descriptive poem on the theme of Nature.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion about the seasons, local environments, the life cycle of animals and plants, global warming or the benefits of outdoor exercise.

Editor's notes

Super for many levels and situations - includes suggested questions and discussion prompts.

A poem on the theme of urban nature.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion around nature and wildlife, living in different environments or climate change.

Editor's notes

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

Read the extract from 'Are cat cafes good for cats?' and then answer the comprehension questions. When you have finished, complete the writing task.

Editor's note

Covers many E3-L1 content descriptors including: main points and detail, purpose of text, using punctuation to aid understanding, language features, dictionary/vocabulary work and  distinguishing between fact and option. Ideal for mixed level groups. Each question is mapped to the relevant subject content descriptor. 

Read the extract and complete the comprehension tasks. When you have finished complete the writing exercise. 

Editor's note

Covers many E3-L1 content descriptors including: main points and detail, purpose of text, using punctuation to aid understanding.  Ideal for mixed level groups. Each question is mapped to the relevant subject content descriptor. 

A range of questions that I have designed for my Functional Skills Maths learners.The focus is on the four operations (+ – x ÷) with wide coverage of measures and money.

There are two sets of similar, but differentiated, questions so that learners at both both levels can complete them in the same lesson. Each set of questions cover several themes (dog show and music festival) followed by a set of mixed questions and a final page of stretch and challenge tasks.

Editor’s note
With curriculum mapping.
No answer sheet.

A reading based on a news item. Includes comprehension questions, wordsearch puzzle, crossword, putting words in order to make sentences.

Editor’s note
Aimed at E2-E3 but some parts are suitable for E1 (with support). With Functional Skills mapping.

Three sets of differentiated reading questions (E1, E2, E3) based on a poster about a shire horse centre / farm.
Covers all aspects of Entry Level functional skills reading. The writing task asks learners to plan and create an advertising poster for an attraction of their choice.
Editor’s note
With full curriculum mapping

A short description of the famous Australian horse race followed by comprehension questions. Includes suggested answers.

A writing task / practice paper written for an E3 booster writing group of 16-18 year olds.

You want a Saturday job in a pet shop and write a letter to the manager about possible vacancies.