1. 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)

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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)

5. 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’.

6. 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)

7. 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)

8. 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.

9. Ideas based on the 'Igniting Writing' series
by Sue Palmer, Pie Corbett and Ann Webley
(© Nelson Thornes, 2006)
Presentation by Bev Evans, 2008,
Clip art ©Philip Martin, available from