1Lesson Goals
I will be able to:
- put instructions in a logical order.
- use action verbs and sequence words.
- write a short set of clear instructions.
Start here: What happens if instructions miss an important step?
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How to Write Instructions
Writing · Order and action verbs
Teacher note: This is a language lesson: learners can describe the steps without preparing food. Read the listening script from the teacher answers twice. Accept other logical methods that are clearly explained.
2Reading
Clear instructions help another person complete a task. They explain what to use and what to do, in the order the actions need to happen. A useful title tells the reader the goal. A short list of materials helps the reader get ready.
For example, the title could be “How to Make a Cheese and Salad Sandwich”. You need two slices of bread, butter, cheese, washed lettuce and tomato. You also need a clean plate and a butter knife.
First, wash your hands and prepare a clean work area. Next, put the bread on the plate. Spread a little butter on one side of each slice. Then, put cheese, lettuce and sliced tomato on one slice. After that, place the other slice on top. Finally, serve your sandwich.
Instructions often begin with an action verb, such as put, spread or place. These verbs tell the reader exactly what to do. Sequence words, such as first and finally, show the order.
Before you finish, read your instructions again. Imagine you have never done the task before. Is each step clear? Have you included everything the reader needs?
3Vocabulary
Match 1–6 with A–F.
- instructions
- materials
- spread
- slice
- serve
- sequence
A. to put a thin layer over a surface
B. the order in which things happen
C. a thin piece cut from something
D. directions explaining how to do something
E. to give someone food ready to eat
F. things needed for a task
Use two words in your own sentences.
4Reading Comprehension
- What do clear instructions help a person do?
- What does a useful title tell the reader?
- Why include a list of materials?
- What should you do first in the sandwich example?
- What goes on one slice after the butter?
- Name two action verbs from the reading.
- Why should you imagine you have never done the task before?
Answer in sentences. Use the reading.
5Grammar
Imperatives: begin with the base verb: Put the bread on a plate.
Negative instructions: Don’t + base verb: Don’t forget a title.
Choose the correct form.
- (Put / Putting) the bread on the plate.
- (Spread / Spreads) butter on one side.
- Don’t (forget / forgetting) the materials list.
- Finally, (serve / serves) the sandwich.
6Listening & Speaking
Listen: Your teacher will read a short script twice. Answer these questions.
- What should you put on the desk first?
- What should you write at the top of the page?
- What should you do after writing three steps?
Then discuss with a partner:
- Explain how to make the sandwich in your own words.
- Ask your partner to explain one unclear step.
- Choose another everyday task that needs clear instructions.
Try: I think… because… / We could… / What do you think?
How to Write Instructions — continued
7Writing
Write instructions for making a sandwich or packing a school bag. Include a title, a materials list and five steps. Begin each step with an action verb and use sequence words.
Plan your ideas, then write.
Check capitals, punctuation and verb forms.
8Something New
Mixed-up sandwich: Put these steps in order.
A. Place the other slice on top.
B. Spread butter on the bread.
C. Wash your hands and prepare the work area.
D. Serve the sandwich.
E. Put cheese, lettuce and tomato on one slice.
F. Put the bread on the plate.
9Success Criteria ✓
- I can put instructions in a logical order.
- I can use action verbs and sequence words.
- I can write a short set of clear instructions.
- I can use three new words.
- I can answer questions about the listening.
Exit reflection: One thing I learned…
One thing I want to practise…
10Show What You Can Do
Final challenge: Explain a familiar task in five steps. Your partner should identify the materials and follow the order using words or gestures. Improve one unclear step after their feedback.