1. Functional English Using imperatives
Sept Kindly contributed by Carrie Bray. Search for Carrie on and visit the download page for this resource to find further links and related resources.
Written to be used with “Lasagne instructions”, “Pancakes imperatives” and “Reading instructions: glass bead steriliser “ (all available on skillsworkshop) but suitable for general use and revision.
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray
Functional English Curriculum links
E2 Write short texts with some awareness of the intended audience
E3 Write texts with some adaptation to the intended audience
L1Use language, format and structure suitable for purpose and audience
L2 Use a range of writing styles for different purposes
Also covers many adult literacy elements.

2. Imperatives Pay attention to this.
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

3. Warm Up
Get into pairs and draw up a list of equipment you use in your vocational area
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

4. Today You Will: Write some instructions. Use the imperative.
Sequence your writing.
Proof read and correct writing for grammar and spelling.
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

5. Sequencing Vocabulary:
Use words to show the order of things, e.g. firstly, secondly, then, next, now.
Be consistent. If you have firstly, you will need secondly or then to follow.
Use words to let the reader know that the instructions have finished. Can you think of an example?
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

6. Imperatives Compare these 2 sentences:
We use imperatives when we want to give instructions.
Use imperatives to give instructions.
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

7. Imperatives
Imperatives can be in bullet points, numbered or in a list.
They start with a verb, without “to” or a pronoun.
Do not use them in formal writing, it will seem rude.
Look out for them on signs and notices.
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray

8. Over To You... Look at the provided instructions.
What language features did you notice in the instructions?
Using these features, have a go at writing some instructions for a piece of equipment you have used.
When you have finished, swap instructions with a partner.
Are they easy to read?
Does the layout help you find the information you need?
Sept Kindly contributed to by Carrie Bray