I created this resource to try to engage my learners during lockdown. There are two reading tasks based on the same text, which I adapted for level 1 learners by using more basic vocabulary. The reading task can then be followed by the writing a blog task and I have included a step by step sheet to help with the writing task.
Level
L1
L2
GCSE L1-5
English
FE L1.9 Identify and understand the main points, ideas and details in texts
FE L1.13 Use reference materials and appropriate strategies (e.g. using knowledge of word types) for a range of purposes, including to find the meaning of words
FE L1.12 Recognise that language and other textual features can be varied to suit different audiences and purposes
FE L2.14 Understand the relationship between textual features and devices, and how they can be used to shape meaning for different audiences and purposes
L2.15 Use a range of reference materials and appropriate resources (e.g. glossaries, legends/keys) for different purposes, including to find the meanings of words in straightforward and complex sources
FE L2.19 Identify different styles of writing and writer’s voice
Spelling, punctuation and grammar (SPaG)
Writing composition
GCSE Reading A2 Analyse language & structure
(a) Use tone, style and register for different forms, purposes and audiences
GCSE A6 SPaG
TL - Synthesise information
TL - Create texts for different purposes and audiences
This set of steps (taken from Coady & Nation (1988)) with a worked example shows students one process for doing a ‘best guess’ of what to do when they come across a new word. Followed by a set of 10 exercises with some lovely, unusual words.
Editor's note
Fully mapped to GCSE and the new 2018 Functional English content
Level
E3
L1
L2
GCSE L1-5
English
FE E3.11 Use effective strategies to find the meaning of words (e.g. a dictionary, working out meaning from context; using knowledge of different word types)
FE L1.17 Read and understand a range of specialist words in context
FE L1.16 Recognise vocabulary typically associated with specific types and purposes of texts (e.g. formal, informal, instructional, descriptive, explanatory and persuasive)
FE L2.17 Analyse texts, of different levels of complexity, recognising their use of vocabulary and identifying levels of formality and bias
Visual colour-coded resource, explaining the main plural spelling rules. Created for E2/E3 learners, but could also be useful for all visual learners working between E2-L2.
Includes: colour-coded fact sheet, blank table, worksheet and flash cards to cut out and laminate. Could be used for a number of different activities.
Questioning for understanding is a really useful help sheet that encourages learners to ask relevant questions (any topic, any level). Based on Kipling’s “What and Why and When, And How and Where and Who” with teaching ideas and useful links.
For a related resource using the same idea to investigate and write newspaper reports please see Ellie Walsh’s Looking at Newspapers (below).
Level
E1
E2
E3
L1
L2
English
Poetry
AL SLc/E1.3
SLc/E2.2
SLc/E3.4
SLc/L1.2
SLc/L2.2
General
Study Skills and General Teaching
Generic resources for literacy, numeracy and beyond
Written for students who confuse these two words in their writing. Suitable for E2 or dyslexia support at any level. Also useful for introducing the omissive apostrophe. Includes info, examples and tips followed by practice exercises and self evaluation.
The ‘number two’ word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration. Another addition to our popular series of word root / letter string maps. Guaranteed to get students (and teachers) thinking about the number two in a different light!
The ‘number one’ word map for spelling and vocabulary work and teacher reference / inspiration. Another addition to our popular series of word root / letter string maps. Guaranteed to get students (and teachers) thinking about the number one in a different light!
