New York State Elementary Test Prep- ELA 4- 2nd Grade- Writing Directions

Did you ever try to tell someone
how to get someplace or
how to make something?

When writing directions follow four simple steps.

Plan	Pick a Subject: Choose something you like to do or make. Pick something you know a lot about. Then think about what you will say and what steps you will give in your directions. Example: making a sandwich doing a cartwheel playing soccer playing baseball jumping rope going to the library
Write	Write the Directions: Use time order words: first, then, next and last OR Use numbers before your words.
Revise	Check the Directions: Did you include ALL the steps? Are the steps in the right order?
Check	Check for Errors: Check your directions for spelling, capital letters, and proper punctuation.


	Read the directions below for making a milkshake. Notice the time order words used.

Making a Milkshake

First, you get out the blender (after you ask your parents).

Then, you get your favorite ice cream out of the freezer and the milk from the refrigerator.

Next, you scoop out the ice cream and pour in the right amount of milk.

Carefully put the lid on the blender and with your parents help turn it on.

Blend until it is mixed together well.

Stop the blender and pour it into a cup.

Last, drink your delicious milkshake.

Click on the blender to practice writing directions!