Writing worksheet · Informational writing

How-To Writing: Teach the Steps

A how-to planner: what you need, then four steps to draw and write with first, next, then and last.

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Grade level
Grades 2–3
Time
About 30 minutes
Answer key
Not needed: answers vary
Kids practice
Informational writing, Research and note-taking, Text structure, Writing facts in your own words

What kids do

“Teach someone how to do something you know well, like making a sandwich or washing a dog. Draw and write each step.”

Teacher tip

Have kids act out their steps for a partner, who follows them exactly. Missing steps show up fast.

How to use it

  • Model taking notes as short phrases, not copied sentences.
  • Let kids pick a topic they already know a lot about for a first try.
  • Model the first answer on the board, thinking out loud as you write.

Watch for

Opinions sneaking into facts. Ask, “Is that a fact you can check?”

Talk about it

  • How would a reader find information in your piece?
  • Where else do writers use this skill?

Take it further

Have kids teach their topic to the class in a two-minute talk.

US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.

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