Title: GIVING INSTRUCTIONS
Course: Let´s Read & Write

Giving Instructions

Every now and then someone may ask you instructions on how to do something. It may be something simple like how to operate a coin operated washing machine at a laundry mat or it may be something more difficult, like programming a remote control for a TV. Giving instructions may sound difficult, (especially detailed instructions) but if the instructions are broken into small steps and the steps are clearly identified, it becomes a more manageable task.

To do this use sequence markers. These are words which guide the listener or reader through the instructions, by giving them the order of steps to follow. Common sequence markers are:

first second third forth

after that next before that then

you begin by the last step is now finish

There are several standard expressions that can be used when asking for instructions. Look at these examples.

English Expressions

Expression |  | Response
How do you operate (...this can opener)? |  | First, put the can under that sharp wheel and push that lever down.
Can you show me how to (...use this copier)? |  | After putting the paper under the cover, enter the number of copies needed and then press start.
Do you know how to (... use this rice cooker)? |  | Sure, put 3 cups of dried rice in, add 2 cups of water, and hit the start button.
How do I go about (... baking a cake)? |  | Buy a box of cake mix and follow the instructions on the back.

English Expressions

Expression |  | Response
I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. |  | First, fill in this form and take it to window 3.
Could you repeat that, please? |  | Certainly, the answer is no.
What did you say? |  | I said the answer is the planet Pluto.
One more time. |  | What is the chemical symbol for zinc?
Once more. |  | I said put the book in the refrigerator.
Come again. |  | The rain in Spain falls mainly on the plain.
Could you run that by me again? |  | After mixing the ingredients, stir vigorously until well blended, let it sit for one hour, and then put it in the oven.
Huh? |  | Do you have any money?
Please speak more slowly. |  | Of course, I'm sorry.
I’m sorry; I don’t understand the expression (... fill in this form). |  | It means to answer all the questions or supply the information on that piece of paper.
What does (... ingredient) mean ? |  | A ingredient is one thing of many that is in a dish or food. For example, flour is an ingredient in cakes.
I'm sorry, I don't know what you mean. |  | I mean you should be very careful.
Can you give me an example? |  | Things like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, etc.

English Expressions

Expression |  | Response
During a conversation |  |
Wait a second, (... could you repeat that)? |  | I said a half past three.
Excuse me, ( ... I didn’t catch that). |  | I baked an apple pie.
Now hold on, (... I totally disagree). |  | You have that right.
If I may interrupt? |  | Yes.
While someone is working |  |
I hate to bother you but ( ,,, could I speak to you for a minute)? |  | Yes, what is it?
Sorry for bothering you. |  | No problem, what can I do for you?
Sorry for interrupting, ( ...I just need a second). |  | I’ll be with you in a moment.
Excuse me, (... but could I have a minute of your time)? |  | I’m really busy now. How about in 30 minutes in my office?

English Dialogue

Students should work together in pairs and read the following dialogue, one student reading one part, the other student reading the other. Note the expressions used in the dialogue and the progression of the conversation.

Tommy: Hi David. You look busy? What are you doing?

David: I’m trying to figure out how to make these cookies, but I lost the instructions that came with the box.

Tommy: Making cookies from a box is easy. Want me to tell you?

David: Yes, these have to be done in an hour.

Tommy: Okay, first, pour the cookie mix from that bag into a large bowl.

David: Is this bowl big enough?

Tommy: No, you need a bigger one. You’re going to be adding more ingredients. Use that one.

David: Okay, now what?

Tommy: Next, add two eggs and a cup of milk to the bowl and beat until very creamy, with no lumps.

David: Won’t the egg shells be hard to eat?

Tommy: You have to break the eggs first, and just put in the whites and yolks. You throw the shells away. You’ve

never cooked anything, have you?

David: No, this is my first time. What should I mix it with, a fork or spoon?

Tommy: You could use either, but if I were you, I’d use an electric mixer.

David: You mean this? No wonder mom put it out. That’s done, what next?

Tommy: Now, grease the cookie sheet with butter. Then put one tablespoon of cookie dough per cookie on the

cookie sheet. You should space the dough evenly around the cookie sheet, leaving at least an inch

between each cookie.

David: Got it. Now they go in the oven, right?

Tommy: Yes.

David: Okay, they’re in. How long will it take before they’re done?
Tommy: The way you did it, forever. You didn’t turn the oven on.

David: Oh yea, I forgot. What temperature and for how long?

Tommy: Cook them at 325^0 and for about 35 minutes.