Sometimes, the specimen papers are just a little bland... This is a practice English Language Paper 1, both sections A and B. The theme of the questions come from the fantasy genre, where Section A uses an extract from Brandon Sanderson's novel, The Way of Kings; section B uses a fantasy picture prompt to creatively write a narrative or description. Previously, I posted just Section A, so that's available as a stand-alone if you want it. Additionally, I have a full set of lessons, handouts, and activities to help guide students towards success on Section B of English Language, Paper 1 available in my shop.

Sometimes, we just need to get the basics in order before anything else can happen. That's exactly how I felt when I made this quick PowerPoint on how to structure an essay - using the idea of building a hamburger. It's visual, and makes something which can be kind of dull a little more exciting to watch and follow. This lesson is very adaptable, as it isn't topic-specific. Enjoy!

There are two rounds included in this PowerPoint, but one "round" will usually take up a period. Students need mini whiteboards (or something to write on), a dictionary or two, and to come up with a team name. Once done, the games can begin! There are five or so literacy activities per round that focus on topics such as: punctuation, homophones, vocabulary, etc. I used this mostly with Year 7 students and lower level Year 8s. I made it knowing I had a smart board to use, but for things like the class word search which are meant to be interactive, I've just used a projector before on a whiteboard, too.

Although this lesson is now outdated since the incoming of the new curriculum and its texts, this lesson (originally designed to prepare students to write about Candy in a literature mock) can be adapted to suit any character you might currently be studying. This would take place over two lessons (activities would be #1, writing the mock/maybe some review at the beginning of class would be #2) and give students an opportunity to practice a mock by making them familiar with exam-style questions and the information needed to successfully answer them. Since this is on Candy, you'll need to adapt the questions and pictures for whichever character you're choosing to dissect in class. So, it will require you to do a bit of work before it's ready to use, but the ideas and activities are there (the PEE chain also included is universal!). Enjoy :)

Sometimes, the specimen papers are just a little bland... This Language Paper 1 mock uses an extract from Dean Koontz's thriller, Velocity, and very quickly takes the reader from the mundane to a shocking event. With a touch of the bizarre, this mock should give even apathetic students something to pique their interest. Also available in my shop (that particularly compliments this mock) is creative writing package that focuses on creating mood and atmosphere. Check it out! Enjoy :)