Latest Resources & Links

I have used this organisational features matching exercise in two ways, either to test learners initial knowledge of the features or as a revision tool. 

Editor's note

Two versions - one, with images, for Entry Level and another for higher levels. Fully mapped to the reformed Functional English content which comes into effect in September 2019.

Whilst I designed this resource for Adult Numeracy learners, it has found much use over the years across the maths cohorts I've worked with from pre-GCSE to ESOL, and with GCSE learners.

It is in Excel format - 3 tabs for different activities and the second Excel file is the solution sheet.

The sheets are formatted to print off as A4 landscape to allow learners to have their own copies to work on.

This has always worked well as a starter activity with learners in small groups (or teams) and having a competitive edge.

Reading comprehension and writing tasks designed to prepare adults who are returning to education and taking Functional English at Level 1 or Level 2.

Level 1 reading comprehension is based on two texts about returning to education. This is followed by two writing tasks. Level 2 includes all the L1 texts and questions plus an additional lengthy text and questions that involve summarising, and comparing and contrasting two or more texts.

Editor's note

A series of question sheets for learners to count, compare, add and subtract numbers of different fruits.

Learners' reference a front sheet displaying a collection of pictures of fruits to answer a series of questions covering; counting and comparing numbers to 10, words describing quantity, addition and subtraction. Question texts are supported with Makaton symbols and with Numicon shapes to support pre-entry learners' understanding. 

Level 2 reading resource analysing purpose, identifying points of view, organisational and language features, and implied meaning.

Based on a BBC news article where architect Sir David Adjaye calls for a 'long overdue' black culture museum in Britain.

Editor's note

Fully mapped to the reformed Functional English content which comes into effect September 2019. 

A role play to encourage learners to join their schools' PTA.  A parent asks at school about joining the PTA. Later she goes to a meeting and offers to help on a face painting stall at the Christmas fete.

An ESOL lesson embedding numeracy, diversity and British values, centred on the Spring Equinox and three festivals which happen around / on this day - Purim, Holi and Shunbun No Hi. Learners collect unfamiliar words on a vocabulary sheet and ask and answer questions to elicit meaning / explanation. There is a powerpoint to introduce the topic, using acronyms eg 7DIAW  - Seven Days In A Week to elicit key words, and lead to an explanation of what the Vernal Equinox is and when it is.

Topical set of discussion prompt for World Book Day 2019 - but could be used at any time.

One set of general prompts and a second slightly different set of prompts for learners who are also parents (ideal for family learning situations).

Includes a full list of the revised Functional English speaking, listening and communicating content (for E2, E3 and L1) which comes into effect September 2019.