Writing Instructions

1
Writing Instructions

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

2
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

3
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

4
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

5
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.

6
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

7
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.

8
Language

• For emphasis, warnings and prohibition
• Make sure you bring your admission form.
• Never / Dont 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

9
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.

10
Have fun with your assignment!!