Recent Changes

This is a project based on Benford's law. I had this idea after watching the Numberphile series on YouTube. This is a project based activity that involves many skills including working with large numbers, using percentages, representing data and probability.

The investigation is introduced to learners using the PPT (and optional YouTube links). Learners then split into four groups - each is given a random set of  share prices [see Excel file].  Each group investigates the occurrence of numbers starting with each digit from 1 to 9.

Editor's note

A nice way to check learning of probability at the end of a session.

5 questions based on functional skills exam questions where learners find the probability of an event happening.

A practical investigation that can be enjoyed in mixed level classes.  There's something for all learners from Entry Level 1 to Level 2.

Editor's note. One of my favourite resources that somehow got lost when the site was redeveloped in 2011.  Now fully updated to reflect the new 2018 Functional Skills content that come into effect September 2019. Pages 7-8 show detailed FS mapping to content descriptors and problem solving skills.

Straightforward probability questions for L2 Functional Maths (dice, playing cards, socks, pens, etc.). Includes useful practice with simplifying fractions.
Plus an interesting extension question.

Originally written as a mock E2 ESOL reading paper with a Halloween theme. Now amended with extra tasks to reflect the reformed Entry Level 2 Functional English content. Covers alphabetical order / dictionary work, general comprehension, purpose of text (E3) and some writing elements (see below). 

Editor's note

10/10/17 Several minor and one major correction made

These tasks assume no previous knowledge of compound sentences and/or conjunctions. They do assume the learner is familiar with simple sentences (i.e. one clause, one verb).
Aimed at E2-E3 students but could be useful at Level 1.

Tasks include joining pairs of Halloween sentences with a suitable conjunction; extending simple sentence with a suitable ‘ending’, and rewriting texts that are initially written using only simple sentence (in order to improve their organisation and readability).

A set of six linked, differentiated texts about Halloween, with associated writing assessments.
Two texts for each Entry Level: an email, a party invitation, a recipe, instructions for a Halloween game, a contents page, and a newspaper article. Writing tasks include an informal note, an email, form filling, a formal letter and a report for a village newsletter.

A simplified reading comprehension based on the origins of Halloween with accompanying questions.
Two versions: one for E2 – low E3, another for high E3 – L1.