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.
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
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
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.
Level
Level 1
Level 2
English
FE L1.9 Identify & understand the main points, ideas & details
FE L2.11 Identify when main points are sufficient & when specific details are important
FE L1.1 Identify relevant information & lines of argument in explanations & presentations
FE L2.1 Identify relevant information from extended explanations or presentations
FE L2.2 Follow narratives & lines of argument
FE L1.3 Respond effectively to detailed questions
FE L2.3 Respond effectively to detailed or extended questions & feedback
FE L1.6 Follow / understand discussions & make contributions relevant to situation & subject
FE L2.8 Make relevant and constructive contributions to move discussion forward
ESOL
ESOL Rt/L1.3a Understand how main points and specific detail are presented and linked
ESOL Rt/L1.5a Use skimming, scanning and detailed reading in different ways for different purposes
ESOL Rt/L2.3a Identify the main points and specific detail in different types of text of varying lengths & detail
ESOL Rt/L2.7a Use different reading strategies to find and obtain information, e.g. skimming, scanning, detailed reading
ESOL Lr/L1.1a Extract information from texts of varying genre, e.g. radio, TV
ESOL Lr/L1.5a Respond to questions on a range of topics
ESOL Lr/L2.1a Extract information from extended texts in a non-face-to-face context, e.g. radio
ESOL Lr/L2.3a Respond to detailed or extended questions on a range of topics
ESOL Sd/L1.2a Express views and opinions
ESOL Sd/L1.1c Express likes, dislikes, feelings, hopes, etc.
I absolutely love these starter quiz templates for L1 Functional Skills Maths and L1-L2 Functional English from Pearson Edexcel and Jonny Kay. The main link below sends you to an PDF overview - scroll to the end of the PDF for direct links to the templates and sample quizzes.