Writing Instructions at Key Stage 2 Using Sue Palmer's Writing Skeletons Ideas that help pupils plan their writing: based on the 'Igniting Writing' series by Sue Palmer, Pie Corbett and Ann Webley (© Nelson Thornes, 2006)

About instructions All non-fiction text types cover have the same five key issues to look at. These are: Audience Purpose Examples Typical structure Typical language features Instructions tell us how to do or make something. They are written for someone who needs to know how to do or make something.

Instructions The instructions writing skeleton looks like this. Preparation: before take off Procedures for during take off What to do in an emergency It is used for listing facts in a clear and concise way. In some cases (e.g. a set of school rules) the instructions do not have to be in chronological order.

There are lots of different types of instructions. A recipe An instruction poster (e.g. instructions on how to make a computer) An instruction leaflet (e.g. how to make something or safety procedures) Instructions for a game Map directions These are ones that do not to be in order: A list of school rules or guidelines A poster showing general advice on an issue (e.g. water safety)

Let’s look at the five key areas of instructions Audience Someone who wants to know how to do something Purpose To tell someone how to do something clearly. Examples Recipe, instruction manual, rules of a game Typical Structure Often in chronological order or list form, diagrams Typical language features Simple clear and formal language, imperative, numbers or time connectives There are two ‘tool kits’ we need to write instructions The ‘Organisation Toolkit’. The ‘Instructions Language Toolkit’.

Organisation Toolkit Remember to… Write a title that sets out the purpose for the instructions (e.g. Safety instructions) If relevant, write an opening sentence or statement directed at the reader (e.g. follow these instructions to ensure safety) Include lists of equipment or ingredients if needed Write the instructions as a sequence of steps Draw diagrams to help explain things clearly Write an ending sentence directed at the reader (e.g. Enjoy your flight)

Instructions Language Toolkit Remember to… Use imperative verbs (e.g. Put seats into the upright position) Use the present tense or third person for instructions Use some time connectives (e.g. first, next) Use accurate descriptions in order to make the instructions clear (e.g. Fold the smaller piece of paper in half) Use technical language related to the subject (emergency exit, aisle) Where relevant extend the instruction to provide extra advice and explanation (e.g. Insert the metal tab into the buckle)

Let’s look at the instructions writing skeleton again. Write clear instructions using relevant language Direct your ending to the reader State your purpose Now try to use this in your writing.

Ideas based on the 'Igniting Writing' series by Sue Palmer, Pie Corbett and Ann Webley (© Nelson Thornes, 2006) Presentation by Bev Evans, 2008, www.communication4all.co.uk Clip art ©Philip Martin, available from http://www.phillipmartin.info/clipart/homepage.htm