2nd Grade Writing Lesson 29: Write Directions or Steps for a Task

Objective

I can write clear directions by listing steps in order and using time-order words like first, next, then, and last.

Materials

Pencil
Eraser
Ruled paper (primary lines preferred)

Mini-lesson — Clear directions help someone succeed

Directions tell someone how to do something. Good directions are short, in order, and easy to follow.

3 rules for great directions

Start with the goal: What are we doing?
List steps in order: One step at a time.
Use time-order words: first, next, then, last.

Example

Goal: Pack my backpack
Steps: First put in my folder. Next add my pencil case. Last zip it.

Quick check: "Are my steps in the right order and easy to follow?"

Guided Practice — Practice step words

Choose 3 sentences from the Trace menu and copy them neatly on paper. Then use the Tracing Pad to practice words, sentences, and marks.

Tracing Pad

Lines Trace

Pen

Drag & Drop — Put the steps in order

Build each set of directions. Keep the steps in the right order.

First,washyourhands.

getyourtoothbrushNext,.

Then,puttoothpasteonthebrush.

brushyourteethLast,.

openthelunchboxFirst,.

Next,putthesandwichinside.

addafruitThen,.

Last,closethelunchbox.

turnonthelightFirst,.

Next,readthedirectionsslowly.

Quick Check — Directions

Choose the best answer for each question.

Which word tells the first step?

last first finally

Choose the best word: “___, put your paper on the desk.”

Next Last Because

Choose the best word: “___, clean up your space.”

First Next Last

Which direction is easiest to follow?

Do everything fast and hope it works. First get a pencil. Next write your name. Write something, then maybe do the other thing.

What should you do after you write directions?

Reread to check the order Add random steps Remove all step words

Which word can mean “after that”?

last first then

What is the goal in directions?

A joke at the end What you are trying to do A hard word

Which set of words shows order?

first, next, then, last big, small, tiny because, and, but

What makes directions clearer?

Put two steps in one sentence every time Skip the important steps Write one step at a time

Choose the best punctuation: “First__ wash your hands.”

. , ?

Assessment (parent/teacher)

Puts steps in a clear order Uses time-order words (first, next, then, last) Uses short, clear action words in each step Uses capitals and punctuation correctly

Exit ticket (student)

😀 I can write directions with steps in order. 🙂 I can do it sometimes, but I need more practice. 😅 Writing clear steps still feels tricky.

I will practice…

Step words (first/next/then/last) Keeping steps in order Short, clear steps