Contextual Resources

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.

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  feelings.  Can be used as a reading and pronunciation exercise or may be extended to include a discussion around personal emotions and wellbeing.

Editor's notes

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

What is the International Day of the Elimination of Racial Discrimination? Why is it important and what can we learn from it?
Slides for L1 and L2 English learners to find out more about the importance of racial equality while building their English skills.

Why should we be mindful of the language we use around disability? How can we show awareness? Slides for L1 and L2 English learners to find out more about the importance of equality while building their English skills.

Editor's note

A worksheet to help  learners prepare for the Speaking and Listening exams, which specifically focuses on ways to reduce anxiety about speaking in public. The worksheet includes embedded YouTube video links which learners watch and make notes from. This was made for L1 and L2 learners but can be adapted for other levels. 

Slides (with short texts. images and videos) that explore the connection between stress and social media, social media addiction and the life we portray via social media.  This resource combines reading, writing and speaking and listening tasks to expand key vocabulary and encourage deeper critical thinking.  Maths skills are embedded through the reading and interpretation of line graphs.

Editor's note

Slides based on the theme of mental health, wellbeing, the importance of praise, self recognition and brag folders and SMART targets.

Editor's note

Resource focusing on the question 'Is the internet an addictive drug?'  The PowerPoint consists a video link and written stimulus to evoke thought and discussion.  Looking at the relationship we have with our phones versus people; our use of internet enabled devices, 'every minute of every day' and Social Media depression. 

Editor's note

Updated 11 Mar 21

Related 'Garden Birds' word search now added. This extra activity is based on the "Guide to the top 10 garden birds" poster that appears on page 2  of the Entry Level 1 resource.

Two reading comprehension exercises differentiated for EL1 and EL2/3 Functional Skills English. The Entry Level 1 version also includes speaking and listening activities.