First, Next, Then: Writing How-To Instructions

About This Resource

A free Grade 3 ESL writing worksheet on instructions. Students read a model how-to text about planting a bean seed, find the title, the list of things you need, numbered steps, command verbs and order words, put steps in order, choose command verbs and write instructions of their own. Includes a timed lesson plan, a six-activity worksheet, an editable Word version and answer key.

Overview

Instructions tell the reader how to do something. A good how-to text has a title that starts with How to, a list of things you need, steps in order with numbers, order words (First, Next, Then, After that, Finally) and command verbs at the start of each step (fill, put, cover). Students read instructions for planting a bean seed, answer questions, put jumbled steps in order, choose the right command verbs and learn to add a helpful tip. Then they plan and write instructions for a simple everyday task.

Resource Details

Subject: ESL
Topic: Writing Instructions: How-To Texts
Category: Writing
File Type: PDF
File Size: 232.5 KB
Published: 12 Nov 2026
Downloads: 0

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Grade 3 ESL (ages 8–9), A1–A2 45 minutes Writing reading sequencing imperative verbs

Student Task

Ask a student to give you instructions to draw a smiley face. Follow them exactly to show why clear steps matter.
Read the bean seed instructions and do activities 1 and 2 together.
Students complete activities 3 to 6. Answers are in the answer key.

Classroom Use

Robot teacher: students give step-by-step instructions and the teacher follows them exactly, even when they are unclear.
Mixed-up steps: groups put cut-up steps for brushing your teeth in order.
Test it: partners swap instructions and try to follow them.

Differentiation

Support: give a writing frame with How to…, You will need… and numbered lines starting with First, Next, Then and Finally. Challenge: students add a tip and a warning (Be careful…).

Answer Key & Assessment

Activities 1 to 5 check the features of instructions (answer key included). Activity 6 shows whether students can write their own clear instructions.

Learning Objectives

Identify the features of a how-to text.
Use command verbs and order words in instructions.
Write clear instructions with a list of things you need and numbered steps.

Teacher Tips

Command verbs (imperatives) are short and clear: Put, Fill, Cut. Remind students to start each step with the verb and to write one action in each step. Following instructions with real materials, like planting a seed, makes the purpose clear.

What's Included

7-page printable PDF lesson pack: teacher lesson plan with timings, materials and differentiation
Key vocabulary list (6 words with meanings and examples)
Student worksheet (6 activities)
Editable Word version of the worksheet
Complete answer key (also as a separate PDF)