1. Practical Skills for Work and Study Use of English Secondary 6/7
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… As a part 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 Headings:
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 / 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

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!!