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Writing Instructional Texts

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Writing Instructional Texts

Read the model instructions, then plan and write a clear set of instructions for a real task. Use precise verbs, numbered steps and helpful details.

Read the model

How to make a paper pinwheel You will need: one square of lightweight paper, a pencil, a ruler, scissors, a drawing pin and a drinking straw. Ask an adult to help with the pin. 1. Place the paper flat on the table. Use a ruler to draw two diagonal lines from corner to corner. 2. Cut along each diagonal line, stopping about 2 cm from the centre. Do not cut all the way through. 3. Bring one corner at a time inward until all four meet at the middle. Keep the folds loose rather than pressing them flat. 4. Ask an adult to push a drawing pin through the four folded corners and the centre of the paper. 5. Attach the pin to the straw, leaving a little space so the paper can turn. Test the pinwheel by blowing gently.

1.What is the main purpose of the model text?

To persuade readers to buy a pinwheel
To explain how to make a pinwheel in a safe, ordered way
To tell a story about making a pinwheel
To describe the history of pinwheels

2.Find two action verbs in the model. Write each verb and say what it tells the reader to do.

3.Why does step 2 say to stop cutting about 2 cm from the centre?

4.Which detail in the materials or steps is an important safety instruction, and who should help?

5.Rewrite the instruction “Put the corners in” so a reader knows which corners to move and where they go.

6.Put these actions in the order they happen in the model: attach the pin to the straw; draw diagonal lines; fold the corners; cut along the lines.

Plan a set of instructions

Choose a task you can explain clearly, such as organising a school bag, making a simple snack, or preparing for a rainy-day walk. Choose a task that is safe to describe.

7.State your task as a specific title. Avoid a broad topic such as “Food”; name the thing the reader will make or do.

8.List the materials or items needed. Include quantities or useful details where they would prevent confusion.

9.Plan at least five steps in a sensible order. Start each step with an action verb, and include a precise detail where a reader might otherwise guess.

10.Write your complete instructional text using your plan. Include a clear title, a materials list and numbered steps. Add a safety warning or helpful tip if the task needs one.

11.Edit your instructions. Check each feature below, then copy one sentence you improved and explain what you changed to make it clearer. ☐ Clear, specific title ☐ Materials or items listed ☐ Numbered steps in a sensible order ☐ Action verbs at the start of steps ☐ Precise details that prevent confusion ☐ Appropriate safety warning or helpful tip