English HW
Jcotto1990
InstructionsforInstructions.pptxInstructions for Instructions
Learning Goals
Write a set of instructions
Appropriately adapt tone, style, and content depending on audience, purpose and genre
Write clearly and concisely, with grammar and usage appropriate to the rhetorical situation.
Writing Instructions
We use instructions every day, when we put together a piece of furniture from Ikea or follow a recipe. Instructions spell out the steps required to complete a task. Instructions need to be clear and easy for the audience to follow.
Using the outline on p. 455, write instructions for a task that requires a minimum of 5 major steps.
The Audience
Address a general audience. A general audience means those without specialized knowledge. For example, if you are a nursing major, instructions for a medical procedure would not be for a general audience.
Outline for Instructions
Components to include:
1. Introduction
Overview
Materials , equipment
Working definitions
2. Required Steps
A minimum of 5 numbered steps
Steps should begin with an action verb.
(Examples: Stir, measure)
Insert warnings, cautions and notes as needed.
Visuals
Include all necessary visuals (photos or graphics).
Number your visuals. Ex: fig. 1, fig 2.
Cite your visual in Reference list
Cite all sources!!! If you are using screen shots or your own pictures, be sure to cite them so there is no confusion.
Instructions for a Recipe
If you are giving instructions for a recipe that you did not create, be very clear about where you got the recipe. You should include that information in the Overview.
For example, “This recipe has been adapted from the Pioneer Woman.com.” You don’t want your reader to think you wrote the recipe. Remember fair use!!!!
Tips for Writing Instructions
Use informative headings.
Arrange all steps in a numbered list.
Make warning, caution and danger notices highly visible.
Divide the task into steps and substeps.
Keep the visual and the step close together.
Keep it simple. Instructions should be clear and concise.
Start instructions with command verbs.
Use the Checklist
After writing your instructions, review the Checklist on p.468.
Make sure your instructions follow the content, organization, style and page design guidelines.
Do Not!!!
Do not write instructions for changing oil or a tire.
DO NOT copy your instructions from another source. This will result in a grade of 0.
