Embed critical literacy skills through a high-engagement error-detection and text-correction activity using a science-themed article. This resource supports the 2026 writing expectations from the English qualification by focusing on spelling, punctuation, spacing, paragraphing and capitalisation—core components of the updated assessment framework from the exam board.
Students are given an original shark article containing deliberate technical errors, then asked to mark it the way teachers do using professional proof-reading codes:
C – capital letter error
P – missing punctuation
SP – spelling error
/ – missing space
// – new paragraph needed
^ – missing word
^/ – spacing issue
These annotation skills mirror the kinds of editing awareness students now need for the new English Language writing assessment.
Once the text is fully marked and corrected, learners then rewrite the article accurately, applying the corrections independently. The improved, corrected version is also included for teacher reference or modelling.
shark–Correcting-texts
Key Literacy Skills
Proof-reading using professional marking codes
Correcting spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors
Understanding sentence demarcation and clause separation
Paragraphing for clarity and cohesion
Space insertion and missing-word detection
Essay and transactional writing accuracy for GCSE English Language papers (2026 emphasis)
Building confidence in editing before writing
What Teachers Receive
PowerPoint slides containing the original error-filled Solar System article
Editing code key and clear task instructions
Corrected model version for modelling or peer assessment
Lines/spaces for student rewrite
Fully editable format, ready to print or deliver on screen
No additional preparation required
Classroom Uses
English lesson starter or literacy intervention task
Proof-reading practice before extended writing
Cross-curricular literacy (English + science engagement)
Exam writing preparation with focus on technical accuracy
Homework or guided independent work
Peer or self-assessment modelling
Vocabulary and clause correction discussion
Suitable For
KS3–KS5 English
GCSE English Language 2026 writing preparation
EAL groups practising spelling and spacing accuracy
SEN literacy support or small group intervention
College and adult literacy learners
Curriculum-wide literacy improvement
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