Simplify the process of teaching procedural writing using these wonderful how-to writing ideas.
Sequencing is an important reading and writing task that students will use in every grade level. That’s why it’s essential for them to grasp and eventually master this skill.
This requires students knowing how to explain themselves clearly and fully.
They must be able to provide clear written instructions so that readers understand exactly what needs to be done in order to complete an action.
Using these how-to writing ideas, students will have opportunities to practice explaining how to do something, make something, or be something.
This collection of writing activities includes a variety of topics and will serve the needs of your students no matter their interests.
So keep these how-to writing ideas handy as you plan your how-to writing unit.
How-To Writing Ideas
1. Explain how to make a snowman.
2. Explain how to take care of a plant.
3. Explain how to play your favorite sport.
4. Explain how to reach SMART goals.
5. Tell how to start a band.
6. Explain how to make a sock puppet.
7. Explain how to write a news story.
8. Explain how to wash your hair.
9. Explain how to play the game of tag.
10. Describe how to put up a bulletin board.
11. Explain how to look for and check out a library book.
12. Explain how to dress for a rainy day.
13. Tell how to play your favorite indoor recess game.
14. Explain how to get ready for school.
15. Explain how to put up a tent.
16. Tell how to set a table.
17. Explain how to solve a math word problem.
18. Explain how to make a piñata.
19. Explain how to sew a button on a shirt.
20. Explain how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
21. Explain how to show respect to your parents.
22. Explain how to make an origami craft.
23. Explain how to make a cold lemonade.
24. Tell how to plan a party.
25. Explain how to make an omelet.
26. Explain how to make a sand castle.
27. How do you tie shoes?
28. Explain how to stay safe while online.
29. Explain how to blow up a balloon.
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30. Explain how to play hopscotch.
31. Explain how to make your favorite recipe.
32. Explain how to grow a tree.
33. Explain how to blow bubble gum.
34. Explain how to find a channel on TV.
35. Devise a strategy for using sticky notes for reading comprehension.
36. Explain how to play tic-tac-toe.
37. Explain how to decorate a bedroom.
38. Tell how to braid hair.
39. Explain how to make a pizza.
40. Explain how to use the scientific method.
41. Explain how to be a good reader.
42. Describe how to design something.
43. Explain how to pack a suitcase.
44. Explain how to cook a turkey.
45. Tell how to make a jack-o-lantern.
46. Explain how to download an app.
47. Explain how to write a friendly letter.
48. Explain how to care for a pet.
49. Explain how to make a delicious baked potato.
50. Explain how to make an obstacle course.
51. Explain how to make a pinwheel.
52. Explain how to fold a blanket.
53. Explain how to pack a suitcase.
54. Tell the steps for building a tree house.
55. Explain how to get good grades.
56. Explain how to make a pancake.
57. Explain how to exit the building during a practice fire drill.
58. Explain how to eat a crawfish.
59. Tell how to build something.
60. Explain how to give a dog a bath.
61. Explain how to make an anchor chart.
62. Explain how to wash a car.
63. Explain how to make a smoothie.
64. Explain how to play your favorite outdoor game.
65. Explain how to put on make-up.
66. Tell how to floss your teeth.
67. Explain how to play rock, paper, scissors.
68. Explain how to actively participate in class.
69. Explain how to make maracas.
70. Explain how to make a paper airplane.
71. Tell how to go fishing.
72. Explain how to make $100.
73. Explain how to make a milkshake.
74. Explain how to play a vinyl record.
75. Explain how to make a complaint at a restaurant.
76. Explain how to wash dishes in the sink.
77. Explain how to play a card game.
78. Explain how to paint a picture.
79. Explain how to bake a cake.
80. Tell how to compose a haiku.
81. Explain how to write an essay.
82. Explain how to study.
83. Explain how to be a good listener.
84. Explain how to make a snowflake out of paper.
85. Explain how to use context clues to define unfamiliar words.
86. Explain how to make a solar oven.
87. Explain how to paint fingernails.
88. Explain how to make a flipbook.
89. Explain how to persuade someone to do something.
90. Explain how to change a diaper.
91. Explain how to prepare for a road trip.
92. Tell how to tie a necktie.
93. Explain how to make ice cream.
94. Explain how to write a knock-knock joke.
95. Explain how to peel an orange with only your hands.
96. Tell how to wrap a gift.
97. Explain how to get from the cafeteria to your classroom.
98. Explain the best way to spend a snow day.
99. Explain how to use self-serve checkout at a store.
100. Explain how to relax.
101. Explain how to find the main idea of a book.
102. Explain how to tie a balloon.
103. Explain how to create a scavenger hunt.
Final Thoughts On How-To Writing Ideas
Utilize these how-to writing ideas as writing activities in writer’s workshop. In time, your students will be proficient in procedural writing.