Digital Functional Skills - L1 - Mod 2 - Creating & Editing - Unit 2.2 - Layout Conventions

These resources have been created for those delivering the Digital Functional Skills Qualification at Level 1, which replaces the current Functional Skills ICT Qualification.

The DFS qualification’s main purpose is to provide reliable evidence of a learner’s achievements against content that is relevant to the workplace and real life.

These resources provide a structured assessment in workbook form to evidence learner knowledge and skills, as well as their ability to apply these in different contexts and demonstrate that all learning outcomes have been met.

The qualification itself is made up of five main skill areas (Modules), each with its own series of units.

The unit workbooks include various challenges, activities and tasks to prove learners’ understanding. Each page has a header that includes the individual outcomes covered and can be assessed easily and signed off.

This resource covers:

Module 2 - Creating and Editing - 2.2 - Use appropriate layout conventions for information (including formal and informal communication, presentation, advertisement) and audiences (including familiar,
unfamiliar audience).

This resource includes:

Task 1 – Layout Elements
Learners are introduced to the key layout elements used to create clear, professional documents. They match each element (such as tone, font, spacing, and alignment) with its correct description to build understanding.
Task 2 – Formal vs Informal Communication
Learners discuss the difference between formal and informal communication, exploring how tone and language change depending on the audience and purpose.
Task 3 – Choosing the Right Font
Learners identify appropriate fonts for formal and informal documents, using colour-coded highlighters to separate professional from fun or casual styles.
Task 4 – Identifying Layout Conventions
Through a realistic scenario featuring fictional character Kirsten, learners compare a formal complaint letter and an informal email. They identify and record how the nine key layout elements are used differently in each.
Task 5 – Over to You
Learners apply their knowledge by creating both a formal and informal document from one of three themed options, a theatre review, café visit, or charity event promotion. This allows them to demonstrate tone, structure, and audience awareness creatively and independently.
Task 6 – True or False Quiz
A 10-question quiz helps learners review and consolidate their understanding of layout conventions, tone, and suitability for purpose and audience.

Also included is a Glossary for learners to complete and a Skills and Knowledge Checklist to be filled in before and after delivery of this unit.

Guided Tutor Answers for relevant tasks are also included.
This resource is currently in a PDF file format. Word versions are available for free upon purchase of the PDF – please message me directly for these at SmartbooksEd@outlook.com.