Writing Instructions Practical Skills for Work and Study

Writing Instructions Practical Skills for Work and Study Use of English Secondary 6/7

Introduction ► In this lesson, you will learn about… § The conventions used in writing instructions § Sequencing and arranging steps and procedures in a logical time order

Introduction ► Step-by-step explanations of… § § § ► How to do things Giving directions Explaining how things work Asking someone to do something for you Recipes As a part of… § § A personal or formal letter A memo An article A talk

Organization ► Start by a good introduction § Indicate the exact procedure to be explained § Provide an overview of contents ► Headings: § For instructions about operating mechanic items, § Include headings for… ►Background ►Equipment ►Instructions ►Subheadings for the individual tasks or phases within that section

Organization ► Present the steps clearly by: § Numbering each step § Using time markers, such as first, second, next, afterwards, etc. § In a chronological or other reasonable time order § For example… First, beat the eggs together lightly. After that, / Then, / Next, you mix all a little milk, salt and pepper.

Language ► Short and simple sentences by using imperatives § Tells you to do something § At the beginning of a sentence § For example: ►Take the bus ►Let it go ►Come on

Language ► Conditionals Type 0: to explain solutions in different situations ► Imperative in the result-clause § E. g. If you lose your wallet, call the police.

Language ► For emphasis, warnings and prohibition: § Make sure you bring your admission form. § Never / Don’t expose it to bright light. ► The use of prepositions: § on, in, under, off, out of, opposite, next to and near § E. g. Finally, fold it over and slide it on to a heated plate when the centre is still creamy

Assignment Time! ► You are Benny / Brenda. Your friend, Steve, is going to stay at your flat with your pet (e. g. a dog, a cat, etc. ) while you are away for a trip in Singapore. Write a letter to him / her about the following: § Where to find things (such as towels, vacuum cleaner, etc. ); § How to operate things (such as cooker, washing machine, etc); § How to look after the pet (such as meals, walks and so on) ► Make sure your letter is informative and instructions are clear enough. Write about 260 words.

Have fun with your assignment!!