I like this - it's very well executed - even though I'm not sure exactly how it could be used within a Functional Skills English classroom. I receive many suggested links and mostly ignore them (due to them not being free or not being useful for Functional Skills). However, I always have a soft spot for "Words of the Day" as they can make great warm up activties at almost any level.
Level
Entry Level 1
Entry Level 2
Entry Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
English
FE E2.10 Use effective strategies to find words meanings & check spelling e.g. simple dictionary, spell-checker
FE E3.8 Read correctly words designated for Entry Level 3
FE E3.11 Use strategies to find meaning of words e.g. dictionary, context, word types
FE L1.13 Use reference materials & appropriate strategies for a range of purposes, inc. to find word meanings
FE L1.17 Read & understand a range of specialist words in context
FE L2.15 Use a range of reference materials & resources (e.g. glossaries, legends/keys) for different purposes
Eye witness accounts can now pop up in the L2 assessments and there is very little guidance or examples of this genre. This useful task comes with a sample written response (of a strong pass) and examiner feedback which really helps the learner (and their teachers!) understand what is required.
Download help
Upon following the link, select “Resources” not “Sample assessment material”. Then scroll down until you see the download file (which is a zip file).
Level
Level 2
English
FE L2.27 Use language & register (e.g. persuasive techniques, supporting evidence, specialist words) to suit audience & purpose
FE L2.23 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly, coherently and effectively
FE L2.24 Write text of appropriate level of detail & length to meet needs of purpose & audience
FE L2.26 Convey clear meaning & establish cohesion using organisational markers effectively
FE L2.28 Construct complex sentences consistently & accurately, using paragraphs where appropriate
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
Written specifically for the new reformed English content which expects secure homophone skills at much lower levels than previously. Covers 6 of the 22 homophone spellings required at E3 using differentiated sets of cloze exercises. 6 sets each with 12-15 questions / sentences plus detailed teaching notes and an appendix listing all E1, E2 & E3 spellings.
Level
Entry Level 3
Level 1
Level 2
English
FE E3.17 Spell correctly words designated for Entry Level 3
FE L1.21 Spell words used most often in work, study and daily life, including specialist words
FE L2.22 Spell words used in work, study & daily life, including a range of specialist words
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
