成人快手

Watch: What are imperative verbs?

Imperative verbs are used to give instructions or to tell someone to do something.

Watch this video to understand more about imperative verbs.

Learn how to use imperative verbs.

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Watch: Instructions

Instructions are written to show someone how to do something, such as cooking a meal, building furniture or getting somewhere (directions).

Watch this video to learn how to write carefully crafted instructions that help with almost anything.

Learn how to write carefully crafted instructions to help with almost anything.

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How to write instructions

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Instructions must be written carefully so the reader can complete the task.

Key features of instructions:

  • Title - tells the reader what it is they are making or doing.

  • What you will need - this could be ingredients (for a recipe) or tools if the instructions are for making furniture.

  • Chronological Order - write the instructions in time order (the order in which they need to be completed). Number the instructions to make the order clear.

  • Imperative verbs - 'bossy' or commanding verbs (action words) will make the actions the reader needs to complete clear.

  • Time conjunctions - these can introduce the individual instructions and help order each step. For example, first or primarily, next or then, finally or ultimately.

  • Adverbs 鈥 use adverbs to give detail and describe how something should be done. For example, finely chop the carrots OR gently stir the chocolate.

  • Detail/adjectives 鈥 use adjectives to make the instructions even clearer to the reader. For example, chop the nuts into small pieces OR screw the bolt in so it is tight.

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Activity 1

Test your knowledge by highlighting the imperative verbs within the text.

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Activity 2

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Now that you know more about the key features of a set of instructions, take a look at these recipe examples.

In each one, try to spot:

  • the ingredients list
  • an imperative verb
  • an adjective

Challenge!

Can you explain how the numbered instructions and illustrations help the reader to understand the instructions?

You can check your answers using this

An illustration of a young boy smiling with question marks around him.
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Activity 3

Watch this video to learn about Robert Falcon Scott鈥檚 Journey to the South Pole. Then try the activity below.

Robert Falcon Scott.

Imagine you are Robert Falcon Scott and write a set of instructions for walking to the South Pole.

Think carefully about:

  • what equipment you will need

  • instructions to stay safe

  • instructions to find the South Pole

  • using imperative verbs

An illustration of a young girl thinking with a speech bubble saying top tip.

Top Tip!

Look at the key features to make sure that your instructions have the right amount of detail and are easy to understand.

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Play our fun English game Crystal Explorers. game

Use grammar, punctuation and spelling skills to explore jungles, caves and tombs on your mission!

Play our fun English game Crystal Explorers
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