English · Class 7 · Listening and Speaking Skills · Term 3

Giving and Following Instructions

Master the practical skill of giving clear, sequential instructions and listening carefully to follow multi-step directions accurately.

TL;DR:Ever tried to explain a gully cricket rule or follow a complex rangoli design? This topic is all about mastering the art of clear instructions so your message is always understood perfectly.

• CBSE Learning Outcomes
• NCERT: Class VII English - Competencies - Using language for functional purposes

About This Topic

This topic, 'Giving and Following Instructions', is a cornerstone of functional communication skills, aligning with the NCF's emphasis on language in use. For Class 7 students, moving beyond simple commands to understanding and creating sequential, logical instructions is a critical developmental step. This module is not merely about grammar, specifically imperative verbs and sequencers, but about the practical application of language for achieving a specific outcome. It builds cognitive skills like logical thinking, planning, and attention to detail. In the Indian context, where multilingual classrooms are common, the ability to give and receive clear, unambiguous instructions is vital for collaborative learning, especially in subjects like Science (for experiments), Mathematics (for solving problems), and Computer Studies (for following algorithms). This topic empowers students to navigate both academic and real-world scenarios with confidence, from assembling a project to guiding a visitor.

Key Questions

1. Identify the key features of clear and concise instructions that are easy to follow.
2. Explain why it is important to ask clarifying questions when you receive instructions that are unclear.
3. Evaluate a set of instructions for a simple task and suggest improvements for clarity and precision.

Learning Objectives

• Draft a clear, sequential set of written instructions for a familiar process.
• Accurately interpret and follow multi-step verbal and written directions.
• Identify and use imperative verbs and sequencing words (e.g., first, then, after that, finally) correctly.
• Ask relevant clarifying questions when instructions are unclear or incomplete.
• Evaluate and revise a given set of instructions to improve clarity and precision.

Key Vocabulary

Instruction	A direction or order telling someone what to do.
Sequence	The specific order in which steps or events should happen.
Clarity	The quality of being easy to understand and free from confusion.
Precise	Exact and accurate in detail.
Imperative Verb	A verb that gives a command, request, or instruction, like 'Open', 'Mix', or 'Write'.

Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Instructions are just a list of things to do.

What to Teach Instead

Good instructions are more than a list. They must be in the correct sequence, using words like 'first', 'next', and 'finally' to guide the user from start to finish.

Common Misconception

If I know what I mean, the other person will automatically understand.

What to Teach Instead

The person following instructions doesn't know what is in your mind. You must use clear, precise language and avoid vague words, assuming the listener knows nothing about the task.

Common Misconception

Asking questions means I am not smart enough to understand.

What to Teach Instead

Asking clarifying questions is a sign of a good listener. It shows you are paying attention and want to complete the task correctly, preventing mistakes before they happen.

Active Learning Ideas

Escape Room

Blindfolded Artist

In pairs, one student (the 'Director') describes a simple drawing to their blindfolded partner (the 'Artist'), who tries to draw it based only on the verbal instructions. This activity highlights the need for precise language and active listening.

20 min·Pairs

Escape Room

Classroom Treasure Hunt

Prepare a series of written clues, with each clue leading to the next. Students must read and follow each instruction accurately to find the 'treasure' (e.g., a box of sweets or a new book for the class library).

25 min·Small Groups

Escape Room

Recipe Relay

Provide groups with a simple, no-cook recipe like for bhel puri or fruit chaat. Students must read the instructions, gather the ingredients in the correct order, and prepare the snack, focusing on following the sequence correctly.

30 min·Small Groups

Real-World Connections

• Following a recipe to cook a meal for the family.
• Assembling a new toy or piece of furniture using the instruction manual.
• Giving a friend clear directions to get to your house.
• Following safety instructions during a fire drill at school or in a public place.
• Understanding the steps for a science experiment or a craft project.

Assessment Ideas

Quick Check

Observe students during the 'Blindfolded Artist' activity. Keep a checklist to note their use of precise language, sequencing words, and whether the listener asks clarifying questions.

Quick Check

Ask students to write a clear, step-by-step guide on 'How to create and send an email' or 'How to properly wash your hands'. Assess the guide based on clarity, correct sequence, and use of imperative verbs.

Quick Check

Provide students with a simple checklist to review their own written instructions. Criteria can include: 'Are the steps in logical order?', 'Does each step start with an action verb?', 'Are the instructions easy for a classmate to follow?'.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do we need to write instructions when we can just show someone how to do it?

Showing is useful, but you cannot always be present. Written instructions are essential for manuals, recipes, emails, and messages, allowing people to complete tasks correctly on their own, anytime and anywhere.

What if I make a mistake while giving instructions?

That's perfectly fine. The best thing to do is to pause, correct yourself clearly by saying something like, 'Sorry, let me correct that. Before you do that step, you must first...', and then continue. It's better to correct a mistake than to let someone follow wrong instructions.

How can I make sure my instructions are not boring?

Use strong, clear action verbs (imperative verbs) to start your sentences. Keep your sentences short and to the point. Numbering your steps or using bullet points can also make instructions much easier and more interesting to read.