Have fun during the festive season by getting children writing instructions based around how to look after a Christmas elf. This download contains two original model texts from Pie Corbett, with accompanying teacher notes.

How to use the model texts

I have provided two model texts here: the first is about looking after a baby unicorn, and the second about caring for an elf. I have woven in some causal language to explain aspects of the instructions. You may wish to use just the first model with the children and only bring in the second one for pupils who require extra support. 

Tuning-in game 

This can be played orally or lead into writing a list. Note how in the model text, each idea begins with a ‘bossy verb’ to write an imperative. Discuss and brainstorm or list ideas for ways an elf could create mischief or how a Grinch might spoil Christmas. A word of warning: this activity might lead some children to go one step too far!

Prepare ideas 

Discuss and brainstorm a list of ideas about how to care for a pet elf. Do not skimp on this part of the preparation. The children will need lots of ideas about how they would care for their elf. Let them talk in pairs, share possibilities and make sketches of potential elf shelters!  

Writing instructions – Shortburst practice 

Read and discuss my unicorn text. Improvise some instructional sentences to practise using temporal language to organise the chronological order of ‘what to do’. Note how the words ‘also, furthermore and moreover’ allow the writer to add on further instructions.  

Temporal language: First, next, later on, after that, then, eventually, finally, in the end. 

Language for adding on ideas: Also, in addition, as well as, additionally, furthermore, moreover. 

Practise a few sentences as a class before independent writing of the children’s own sentences.

Writing explanations – Shortburst practice

Notice how the causal language provides an explanation for the instructions.  

Causal language: because, as, so, so that, as a result, since, consequently, this causes, the reason that, this means that, this results in, therefore, when. 

Practise adding explanations to the basic elf instructions. Give time to this work as it is harder. Work on a sentence at a time, with you modelling how to do it, then working as a class before they attempt their own sentence: 

Writing instructions – reading as a writer

Read, discuss and analyse both model texts. Box up the underlying pattern and make a note with the children of any relevant features. Use the underlying pattern and relevant features as a basis for shared writing, leading into independent writing. 

Pie Corbett is an English educational trainer, writer, author and poet who has written over 200 books. He is also known for promoting creative approaches in the classroom. He has experience as a teacher, headteacher and Ofsted inspector. Follow him on Twitter at @PieCorbett.

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