# Lesson 29: Write Directions or Steps for a Task

✍️ WRITING (40 Lessons) • 🟣 D. Functional and Real-Life Writing

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## Objective

I can write clear step-by-step directions for a simple task using action verbs (mix, cut, fold), time words (first, next, then, finally), and short sentences that stay in order.

## Materials

- Pencil ✏️ and paper (or tablet)
- Tracing Pad (below)
- Optional: sticky notes to number steps

Tip: Start each step with an action word (Verb first!). Keep one action per step.

## Mini-lesson — How to write directions that work

1. Plan the goal: What will the reader be able to do at the end?
2. Order your steps: Use first, next, then, finally to keep the sequence clear.
3. Action verbs: Begin steps with verbs like put, stir, fold, draw.
4. Keep it short: One idea per sentence. Add safety notes if needed (Ask an adult.)
5. Test it: Read your steps aloud and imagine following them.

Video won’t be included when printing.

## Guided Practice — Trace key words and draft steps

Trace and use these words to write directions for making a paper airplane:

- Key words: first, next, then, finally, fold, crease, fly
- Example outline:
  1. First, fold the paper in half and crease.
  2. Next, fold the top corners to the middle line.
  3. Then, fold the wings down.
  4. Finally, test-fly your plane.

Tracing Pad
Lines
Letter
Pen

## Drag & Drop — Put the Steps in Order

Build clear directions for common tasks. Use First, Next, Then, Finally.

First spread peanut butter on one slice. Next spread jam on the other slice. Then put the slices together. Finally cut the sandwich in half.
First check if the soil is dry. Next fill the watering can. Then pour water slowly into the soil. Finally wipe any spills and put the can away.
First cross the laces and pull tight. Next make a loop with one lace. Then wrap the other lace around the loop and pull through. Finally pull both loops to tighten.
First put notebooks in the big pocket. Next add your pencil case and folder. Then place your water bottle on the side. Finally zip the bag and set it by the door.
First turn on the water and wet your hands. Next add soap and scrub for twenty seconds. Then rinse off all the soap. Finally dry your hands with a clean towel.
First place the plate in the center. Next put the fork on the left and spoon on the right. Then set the cup above the knife. Finally add a napkin.
First check that the sharpener is empty. Next insert the pencil gently. Then turn the pencil until the point is sharp. Finally empty the shavings into the bin.
First move books and papers to the side. Next wipe the surface with a cloth. Then put supplies back neatly. Finally recycle any trash.
First cut a strip of paper. Next color a small design. Then write your name. Finally laminate or add clear tape to protect it.
First write your name and date at the top. Next read all directions. Then complete the first problem carefully. Finally check your work before turning it in.
First wash your hands. Next measure the food. Then pour it into the bowl. Finally give fresh water and clean up.
First fold the paper in half. Next draw a picture on the front. Then write a short message inside. Finally sign your name.

## Quick Check (15 questions)

#### 1) Which word best starts a step?

because fold blue

#### 2) Which order makes sense?

Finally → First → Next Then → Finally → First First → Next → Then → Finally

#### 3) Best step for “make a sandwich”:

Put the slices together. The bus is here. Sandwiches are cool.

#### 4) A safety note is helpful when…

drawing a cat using scissors coloring with crayons

#### 5) Which is an action verb?

carefully bright stir

#### 6) Which step belongs in “wash your hands”?

Rinse off the soap. Read a book. Jump high.

#### 7) Good reason to keep steps short:

Steps look taller. Easier to follow. Uses more ink.

#### 8) Which time word signals the last step?

Next Then Finally

#### 9) Best first step for “start homework”:

Write your name and date. Close your eyes. Eat cereal.

#### 10) If a step is out of order you should…

shout it move it to the right place delete all steps

#### 11) Which sentence is not a step?

Fold the paper in half. Put supplies back neatly. My paper is pretty.

#### 12) Good direction words are…

first, next, then, finally cat, dog, mouse red, blue, green

#### 13) Which belongs in “pack a school bag”?

Paint a wall. Put notebooks in the big pocket. Bake cookies.

#### 14) When you read steps aloud you should check…

if they rhyme the color of the paper if the order is clear and complete

#### 15) Which best ends a set of directions?

Finally, enjoy your finished work! First, begin again. Next, think about lunch.

## Assessment (parent/teacher)

Steps begin with clear action verbs Steps use time words to show order One idea per step; sequence is logical Safety notes included when needed

## Exit ticket (student)

😀 I can write clear step-by-step directions 🙂 I need more practice using time words 😅 It was tricky to keep steps in order

#### I will practice…

Starting steps with action verbs Using first, next, then, finally Reading steps aloud to test them
Lesson 30 →