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Writing Instructions
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Writing Instructions

Writing instructions helps readers complete a task safely and correctly. This KS2 English quiz explains how to give clear step-by-step guidance.

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Fascinating Fact:

Warnings or tips can be added to help avoid mistakes, like “Do not touch the oven without gloves.”

In KS2 English, pupils learn how to write instructions that are clear and easy to follow. Good instruction writing uses command verbs such as “mix,” “cut,” and “fold.” It often includes time order words, bullet points, and safety advice to make sure every step is understood.

  • Imperative Verb: A command word that tells the reader what to do, such as “pour” or “stir.”
  • Sequence: The correct order in which steps should be followed to complete a task.
  • Audience: The person who will read and follow the instructions.
What are written instructions?

Written instructions explain how to do something step by step, such as a recipe, a craft, or a science experiment.

What words are used when writing instructions?

Instruction writing uses imperative verbs like “mix,” “cut,” “turn,” and “wait.” These are direct commands that tell the reader what to do next.

How do I make my instructions clear?

Use short sentences, write steps in order, add helpful tips, and check that each step can be easily followed by your reader.

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1 .
Diagrams or photos help by ____
explaining why it's important to follow the instructions.
showing the reader what to do.
making the instructions seem more difficult.
None of the above.
When putting together a toy or game, diagrams can show us which pieces belong where.
2 .
Which of the following is true?
Instructions try to persuade you to do something.
Instructions are always written.
Instructions are collections of factual information about a topic.
Instructions tell you what to do and how to do it.
Instructions can be spoken or written.
3 .
Instructions should have a list of ____
ingredients or equipment needed.
other people who have followed the instructions.
photos.
reasons why you should follow them.
This is so you know what you will need.
4 .
Instructions are written step by step. These steps should be ____
complicated.
simple.
numbered.
unusual.
They are numbered because instructions normally follow an order.
5 .
Which of these would NOT make a good title for instructions?
How to care for your pet chinchilla.
How to make an origami crane.
Why you should learn to play the violin.
Chocolate Cake Recipe.
Instructions will always tell you what you will achieve if you follow them.
6 .
Many types of writing use instructions. Which of these does NOT use instructions?
List of safety rules.
Craft how-to guide.
Letters page in a newspaper.
Board games.
Instructions are important in a board game - otherwise how would you know how to play it?!
7 .
Which of the following set of instructions is in the correct order?
Turn on the tap, soap your hands, rinse your hands, turn off the tap, dry your hands.
Rinse your hands, turn on the tap, turn off the tap, soap your hands, dry your hands.
Soap your hands, turn off the tap, dry your hands, turn on the tap, rinse your hands.
Dry your hands, turn on the tap, soap your hands, rinse your hands, turn off the tap.
Using connectives would improve these instructions: First, turn on the tap. Then soap your hands. Next, rinse your hands...
8 .
Instructions are written using what type of verbs?
Future tense
Imperative
Passive
Third person
Imperative verbs are sometimes called 'bossy' verbs.
9 .
Which of these connectives should be used in a set of instructions?
Yet, for, because, otherwise.
On the other hand, because, so, secondly.
Therefore, next, however, although.
First, next, then, finally.
Your instructions should be written using 'time connectives', such as 'first', 'next', 'then' and 'finally', to emphasise the correct order for following the steps.
10 .
Which of the following is NOT an example of an instruction?
Could you wash your hands before you begin.
Don't run.
Fold the paper along the dotted line.
Whisk the cream until thick.
'Whisk', 'fold' and 'don't run' are examples of imperative (bossy) verbs. 'Wash your hands before you begin' would be an instruction.
You can find more about this topic by visiting BBC Bitesize - How to write instructions

Author:  Sheri Smith (PhD English Literature, English Teacher & Quiz Writer)

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