English
NCFE Entry Level 1 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
Overview
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The purpose of Functional Skills English Entry Level qualifications are to demonstrate the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply this knowledge and these skills in familiar situations.
 
At Entry Level 1, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes simple narratives, information and instructions, short statements, explanations, discussions, questions and exchanges.
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Details
How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
E1.1.1 Say the names of the letters of the alphabet
E1.1.2 Identify and extract the main information from short statements and explanations
E1.1.3 Follow single-step instructions, asking for them to be repeated if necessary
E1.1.4 Make requests and ask straightforward questions using appropriate terms and registers
E1.1.5 Respond to questions about specific information
E1.1.6 Make clear statements about basic information and communicate feelings and opinions on straightforward topics
E1.1.7 Understand and participate in simple discussions or exchanges with another person about a straightforward topic
Reading
E1.2.8 Read correctly words designated for Entry Level 1
E1.2.9 Read simple sentences containing one clause
E1.2.10 Understand a short piece of text on a simple subject
Writing
E1.3.11 Punctuate simple sentences with a capital letter and a full stop
E1.3.12 Use a capital letter for the personal pronoun ‘I’ and the first letter of proper nouns
E1.3.13 Use lower case letters when there is no reason to use capital letters
E1.3.14 Write the letters of the alphabet in sequence and in both upper and lower case
E1.3.15 Spell correctly words designated for Entry Level 1
E1.3.16 Communicate information in words, phrases and simple sentences
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Method of assessment
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The following components are internally assessed:
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Speaking, Listening and Communicating (5 minute 1-1 discussion with Assessor)
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Reading (40 minute question paper)
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Writing (10 minute spelling test and 35 minute question paper) 
Next Steps
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Students who pass Entry Level 1 Functional Skills can proceed to Entry Level 2 study.
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NCFE Entry Level 2 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
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Overview
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The purpose of Functional Skills English Entry Level qualifications are to demonstrate the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply this knowledge and these skills in familiar situations.
At Entry Level 2, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes simple narratives, explanations, instructions, discussions and straightforward information.
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Details
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How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
E2.1.1 Identify and extract the main information and detail from short explanations
E2.1.2 Make requests and ask clear questions appropriately in different contexts
E2.1.3 Respond appropriately to straightforward questions
E2.1.4 Follow the gist of discussions
E2.1.5 Clearly express straightforward information and communicate feelings and opinions on a range of straightforward topics
E2.1.6 Make appropriate contributions to simple group discussions with others about a straightforward topic
Reading
E2.2.7 Read correctly words designated for Entry Level 2
E2.2.8 Understand the main points in texts
E2.2.11 Read and understand sentences with more than one clause
E2.2.9 Understand organisational markers in short straightforward texts
E2.2.10 Use effective strategies to find the meaning of words and check their spelling
E2.2.12 Use illustrations, images and captions to locate information
Writing
E2.3.13 Use basic punctuation correctly
E2.3.14 Form regular plurals
E2.3.15 Use the first and second letters to sequence words in alphabetical order
E2.3.16 Spell correctly words designated for Entry Level 2
E2.3.17 Communicate information using words and phrases appropriate to audience and purpose
E2.3.18 Complete a form asking for personal information
E2.3.19 Write in compound sentences, using common conjunctions
E2.3.20 Use adjectives and simple linking words in the appropriate way
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Method of assessment
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The following components are internally assessed:
• Speaking, Listening and Communicating (5 minute 1-1 discussion with Assessor and 2-3 minute group discussion)
• Reading (40 minute question paper)
• Writing (10 minute spelling test and 40 minute question paper)
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Next Steps
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Students who pass Entry Level 2 Functional Skills can proceed to Entry Level 3 study.
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NCFE Entry Level 2 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
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Overview
The purpose of Functional Skills English Entry Level qualifications are to demonstrate the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply this knowledge and these skills in familiar situations.
 
At Entry Level 2, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes simple narratives, explanations, instructions, discussions and straightforward information.
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Details
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How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
E2.1.1 Identify and extract the main information and detail from short explanations
E2.1.2 Make requests and ask clear questions appropriately in different contexts
E2.1.3 Respond appropriately to straightforward questions
E2.1.4 Follow the gist of discussions
E2.1.5 Clearly express straightforward information and communicate feelings and opinions on a range of straightforward topics
E2.1.6 Make appropriate contributions to simple group discussions with others about a straightforward topic
Reading
E2.2.7 Read correctly words designated for Entry Level 2
E2.2.8 Understand the main points in texts
E2.2.11 Read and understand sentences with more than one clause
E2.2.9 Understand organisational markers in short straightforward texts
E2.2.10 Use effective strategies to find the meaning of words and check their spelling
E2.2.12 Use illustrations, images and captions to locate information
Writing
E2.3.13 Use basic punctuation correctly
E2.3.14 Form regular plurals
E2.3.15 Use the first and second letters to sequence words in alphabetical order
E2.3.16 Spell correctly words designated for Entry Level 2
E2.3.17 Communicate information using words and phrases appropriate to audience and purpose
E2.3.18 Complete a form asking for personal information
E2.3.19 Write in compound sentences, using common conjunctions
E2.3.20 Use adjectives and simple linking words in the appropriate way
Method of assessment
The following components are internally assessed:
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Speaking, Listening and Communicating (5 minute 1-1 discussion with Assessor and 2-3 minute group discussion)
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Reading (40 minute question paper)
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Writing (10 minute spelling test and 40 minute question paper)
Next Steps
Students who pass Entry Level 2 Functional Skills can proceed to Entry Level 3 study
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NCFE Entry Level 3 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
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Overview
The purpose of Functional Skills English Entry Level qualifications are to demonstrate the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply this knowledge and these skills in familiar situations.
 
At Entry Level 3, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes straightforward narratives, accounts, explanations, discussions, instructions, information and descriptions.
Details
How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
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What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
E3.1.1 Identify and extract relevant information and detail in straightforward explanations
E3.1.2 Make requests and ask concise questions using appropriate language in different contexts
E3.1.3 Communicate information and opinions clearly on a range of topics
E3.1.4 Respond appropriately to questions on a range of straightforward topics
E3.1.5 Follow and understand the main points of discussions
E3.1.6 Make relevant contributions to group discussions about straightforward topics
E3.1.7 Listen to and respond appropriately to other points of view, respecting conventions of turn-taking
Reading
E3.2.8 Read correctly words designated for Entry Level 3
E3.2.9 Identify, understand and extract the main points and ideas in and from texts
E3.2.10 Identify different purposes of straightforward texts
E3.2.11 Use effective strategies to find the meaning of words
E3.2.12 Understand organisational features and use them to locate relevant information
Writing
EL3.3.13 Use a range of punctuation correctly
EL3.3.14 Form irregular plurals
EL3.3.15 Use mostly correct grammar
EL3.3.16 Use the first, second and third place letters to sequence words in alphabetical order
EL3.3.17 Spell correctly words designated for Entry Level 3
EL3.3.18 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly and in a logical sequence
EL3.3.19 Write text of an appropriate level of detail and of appropriate length
EL3.3.20 Use appropriate format and structure when writing straightforward texts, including the appropriate use of headings and bullet points
EL3.3.21 Write in compound sentences and paragraphs where appropriate
EL3.3.22 Use language appropriate for purpose and audience
Method of assessment
The following components are internally assessed:
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Speaking, Listening and Communicating (two 4-6 minute group discussions)
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Reading (40 minute question paper)
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Writing (10 minute spelling test and 45 minute question paper)
Next Steps
Students who pass Entry Level 3 Functional Skills can proceed to Level 1 study.
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NCFE Level 1 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
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Overview
The purpose of Functional Skills English qualifications are to prepare for work, study and life. Achievement of the qualification demonstrates the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply these skills effectively to a range of purposes in the workplace and in other real life situations.
 
At Level 2, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes short narratives, explanations and instructions, discussions and straightforward information.
Details
How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
L2.1.1 Identify relevant information from extended explanations or presentations
L2.1.2 Follow narratives and lines of argument
L2.1.3 Respond effectively to detailed or extended questions and feedback
L2.1.4 Make requests and ask detailed and pertinent questions to obtain specific information in a range of contexts
L2.1.5 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly and effectively, providing further detail and development if required
L2.1.6 Express opinions and arguments and support them with relevant and persuasive evidence
L2.1.7 Use language that is effective, accurate and appropriate to context and situation
L2.1.8 Make relevant and constructive contributions to move discussion forward
L2.1.9 Adapt contributions to discussions to suit audience, purpose and medium
L2.1.10 Interject and redirect discussion using appropriate language and register
Reading
L2.2.11 Identify the different situations when the main points are sufficient and when it is important to have specific details
L2.2.12 Compare information, ideas and opinions in different texts, including how they are conveyed
L2.2.13 Identify implicit and inferred meaning in texts
L2.2.14 Understand the relationship between textual features and devices, and how they can be used to shape meaning for different audiences and purposes
L2.2.15 Use a range of reference materials and appropriate resources different purposes, including to find the meanings of words in straightforward and complex sources
L2.2.16 Understand organisational features and use them to locate relevant information in a range of straightforward and complex sources.
L2.2.17 Analyse texts, of different levels of complexity, recognising their use of vocabulary and identifying levels of formality and bias
L2.2.18 Follow an argument, identifying different points of view and distinguishing fact from opinion
L2.2.19 Identify different styles of writing and writer’s voice
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Writing
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L2.3.20 Punctuate writing correctly using a wide range of punctuation markers
L2.3.21 Use correct grammar and modality devices
L2.3.22 Spell words used in work, study and daily life, including a range of specialist words
L3.3.23 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly, coherently and effectively
L3.3.24 Write text of an appropriate level of detail and of appropriate length to meet the needs of purpose and audience
L3.3.25 Organise writing for different purposes using appropriate format and structure
L3.3.26 Convey clear meaning and establish cohesion using organisational markers effectively
L3.3.27 Use different language and register, suited to audience and purpose
L3.3.28 Construct complex sentences consistently and accurately, using paragraphs where appropriate
Method of assessment
The following components are internally assessed:
• Speaking, Listening and Communicating (8 minute presentation, 3-5 minute question and answer session, and 5-6 minute group discussion)
 
The following components are assessed via onscreen assessment:
• Reading (60 minute question paper)
• Writing (60 minute question paper)
Next Steps
This course provides students with experience and understanding to enable them to use these within the, further education, an apprenticeship or employment.
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NCFE Level 2 Functional Skills Qualifications in English
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Overview
The purpose of Functional Skills English qualifications are to prepare for work, study and life. Achievement of the qualification demonstrates the ability at an appropriate level to read, write, speak, listen and communicate in English, and to apply these skills effectively to a range of purposes in the workplace and in other real life situations.
 
At Level 2, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes short narratives, explanations and instructions, discussions and straightforward information.
Details
How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
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What will I learn?
Speaking, Listening and Communicating
L2.1.1 Identify relevant information from extended explanations or presentations
L2.1.2 Follow narratives and lines of argument
L2.1.3 Respond effectively to detailed or extended questions and feedback
L2.1.4 Make requests and ask detailed and pertinent questions to obtain specific information in a range of contexts
L2.1.5 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly and effectively, providing further detail and development if required
L2.1.6 Express opinions and arguments and support them with relevant and persuasive evidence
L2.1.7 Use language that is effective, accurate and appropriate to context and situation
L2.1.8 Make relevant and constructive contributions to move discussion forward
L2.1.9 Adapt contributions to discussions to suit audience, purpose and medium
L2.1.10 Interject and redirect discussion using appropriate language and register
Reading
L2.2.11 Identify the different situations when the main points are sufficient and when it is important to have specific details
L2.2.12 Compare information, ideas and opinions in different texts, including how they are conveyed
L2.2.13 Identify implicit and inferred meaning in texts
L2.2.14 Understand the relationship between textual features and devices, and how they can be used to shape meaning for different audiences and purposes
L2.2.15 Use a range of reference materials and appropriate resources different purposes, including to find the meanings of words in straightforward and complex sources
L2.2.16 Understand organisational features and use them to locate relevant information in a range of straightforward and complex sources.
L2.2.17 Analyse texts, of different levels of complexity, recognising their use of vocabulary and identifying levels of formality and bias
L2.2.18 Follow an argument, identifying different points of view and distinguishing fact from opinion
L2.2.19 Identify different styles of writing and writer’s voice
Writing
L2.3.20 Punctuate writing correctly using a wide range of punctuation markers
L2.3.21 Use correct grammar and modality devices
L2.3.22 Spell words used in work, study and daily life, including a range of specialist words
L3.3.23 Communicate information, ideas and opinions clearly, coherently and effectively
L3.3.24 Write text of an appropriate level of detail and of appropriate length to meet the needs of purpose and audience
L3.3.25 Organise writing for different purposes using appropriate format and structure
L3.3.26 Convey clear meaning and establish cohesion using organisational markers effectively
L3.3.27 Use different language and register, suited to audience and purpose
L3.3.28 Construct complex sentences consistently and accurately, using paragraphs where
Method of assessment
The following components are internally assessed:
• Speaking, Listening and Communicating (8 minute presentation, 3-5 minute question and answer session, and 5-6 minute group discussion)
 
The following components are assessed via onscreen assessment:
• Reading (60 minute question paper)
• Writing (60 minute question paper)
Next Steps
This course provides students with experience and understanding to enable them to use these within the, further education, an apprenticeship or employment.
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GCSE English
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Overview
At GCSE, students are taught speaking, listening, communicating, reading and writing using of a variety of texts. This includes short narratives, explanations and instructions, discussions and straightforward information.
Details
How will I learn?
Students will be taught in the classroom with some lessons taking place outdoors.
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What will I learn?
AO1: identify and interpret explicit and implicit information and ideas select and synthesise evidence from different texts
AO2: Explain, comment on and analyse how writers use language and structure to achieve effects and influence readers, using relevant subject terminology to support their views
AO3: Compare writers’ ideas and perspectives, as well as how these are conveyed, across two or more texts
AO4: Evaluate texts critically and support this with appropriate textual references
AO5: Communicate clearly, effectively and imaginatively, selecting and adapting tone, style and register for different forms, purposes and audiences. Organise information and ideas, using structural and grammatical features to support coherence and cohesion of texts
AO6: Candidates must use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures for clarity, purpose and effect, with accurate spelling and punctuation. (This requirement must constitute 20% of the marks for each specification as a whole.)
AO7: Demonstrate presentation skills in a formal setting
AO8: Listen and respond appropriately to spoken language, including to questions and feedback on presentations
AO9: Use spoken Standard English effectively in speeches and presentations.
Method of assessment
Assessed
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
80 marks
50% of GCSE
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Questions
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Reading (40 marks) (25%)– one single text
1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
2 longer form questions (2 x 8 marks)
1 extended question (1 x 20 marks)
Writing (40 marks) (25%)
1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
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Assessed
written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
80 marks
50% of GCSE
Questions
Reading (40 marks) (25%) – two linked texts
1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
2 longer form questions (1 x 8, 1 x 12 marks)
1 extended question (1 x 16 marks)
Writing (40 marks) (25%)
1 extended writing question (24 marks for content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
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