Activity Description

Preparation:

1. Select a procedural writing topic
   1. Ensure that you can re-enact this procedure within the classroom
   2. For example, getting dressed for a winter’s day or making a cheese sandwich
2. Gather materials that are required to reenact the procedure
   1. For example, a hat, scarf, coat, and mittens to get ready for winter
3. Prepare chart paper for the procedural writing
   1. You may wish to use the prompts First, Then, Next, and Finally to scaffold procedural writing

Implementation:

1. Introduce the procedural writing topic
   1. Direct students’ attention to the props
2. Ask students to indicate the first step of the procedure
   1. Prompt students to use as much detail as possible
   2. You can make the activity more engaging by “getting confused” and trying to re-enact steps in the wrong order so students can correct you
3. As students orally describe the first step, model it using behaviours and props
   1. Once the first step of the procedure is complete, write the students’ description next to “First” on the chart paper
4. Repeat instructions 2-3 for each step in the procedure
   1. Write steps beside “Then”, “Next”, and “Finally”
5. Add additional sentence starters as necessary
6. Have the class read back the procedure all together, emphasizing the prompt words

Adaptations For

English Language Learners/ESL:

- Provide students with key vocabulary ahead of time with accompanying pictorial representations

Cultural Appropriateness & Diversity:

- Ensure the procedure selected is relevant and meaningful for all students

Related References

Evidence:
Purcell-Gates, V., Duke, N.K., & Martineau, J.A. (2007). Learning to read and write genre-specific text: Roles of authentic experience and explicit teaching. Reading Research Quarterly, 42, 8-45.