Writing Instructions and Procedures
Teach the reader how to do something—clearly, safely, and in the right order.
Key Features
- Imperative (bossy) verbs: Mix, cut, pour, stick — these tell the reader exactly what to do.
- Time openers: First, Next, Then, After that, Finally — these keep the order clear.
- Lists and bullets: equipment/ingredients before steps so learners can prepare.
- Diagrams and labels: pictures help readers who learn visually.
- Safety notes: short reminders if something is hot, sharp or needs an adult.
Model
How to make a bird feeder
Purpose: To give birds food in winter and learn how to follow clear steps.
Ingredients & Equipment
- 1 pine cone
- String (about 30 cm)
- Peanut butter (ask an adult — allergies)
- Bird seeds
Steps
- First, ask an adult to help and check for allergies.
- Tie a loop of string around the top of the pine cone so it can hang.
- Next, spread the peanut butter over the pine cone using a knife or spoon.
- Then, roll the sticky cone in the seeds until it is covered.
- Finally, hang the feeder from a low branch and watch from a window.
Tip: If someone is allergic to nuts, use lard or suet instead of peanut butter.
Learning objectives
- Plan and write clear step-by-step instructions using imperative verbs.
- Organise equipment and steps so another person can follow them independently.
- Include safety notes and simple diagrams where needed.
Classroom lesson (20–30 minutes)
- Warm-up (5 min): Show a badly ordered set of steps for making a sandwich. Pupils reorder them.
- Model (5–8 min): Read the bird-feeder instructions aloud, emphasise bossy verbs and time openers.
- Guided practice (8–10 min): In pairs, pupils write instructions for a simple task (e.g. tie shoelaces), swap and follow them.
- Plenary (2–5 min): Share one improvement each pair made after testing the instructions.
Common mistakes & quick fixes
- Missing equipment list: Add a short list at the top so the user can prepare.
- Vague verbs: Replace "put" with "place" or "cover" to be clearer.
- Steps in the wrong order: Act out the steps to check order.
Assessment checklist
- Has the pupil listed all materials/equipment?
- Do steps start with imperative verbs and time words?
- Could a classmate follow the instructions without asking questions?
- Is a safety note included where needed?
How to Teach Instructional Writing
- Plan: List what you need and write one-sentence purpose (Why are we doing this?).
- Write the steps: Start each step with a bossy verb. Keep sentences short and in the right order.
- Check: Read aloud and see if someone can follow your words without extra help.
- Improve: Add a small drawing or label if a step could be misunderstood.
Quick Checks & Safety
- ✓Are the steps in the correct order? Try them yourself.
- ✓Do all steps start with an imperative verb?
- ✓Have you added a safety note where needed (adult help, hot, sharp)?
Practice Prompts
- Write instructions for making a paper aeroplane: list materials and 6 short steps.
- Create a simple recipe for a fruit salad. Add a safety note about knives.
- Write directions to get from your classroom to the library using time openers (First, Next...).
Challenge: Swap papers with a partner and follow each other's instructions. What was missing or unclear?