English — Writing: Describing a Process (How to Make a Sandwich) — 2nd Year Middle School — Algerian Curriculum

Writing: Describing a Process

Describing a process means explaining how something is done step by step. This type of writing uses sequence words and the imperative form or present simple passive.

Structure of a Process Description

1. Title : What the process is about.
2. Materials/Ingredients : List of what you need.
3. Steps : In chronological order, using sequence words.

Useful Sequence Words

First / First of all, Then, Next, After that, Meanwhile, Then, Finally / In the end.

Example: How to Make a Sandwich

How to Make a Simple Sandwich
Ingredients : two slices of bread, butter, cheese, tomato, lettuce, salt.

Steps :
First, take two slices of fresh bread.
Then, spread butter on one side of each slice.
Next, put a slice of cheese on the buttered bread.
After that, add some tomato slices and lettuce leaves.
Then, sprinkle a little salt on top.
Finally, cover with the second slice of bread and your sandwich is ready!

More Examples of Processes

– How to brush your teeth.
– How to plant a tree.
– How to do an experiment.
– How water becomes ice.

Exercises

1. Put the steps of making a cup of tea in the correct order.
2. Describe how to brush your teeth (at least 5 steps).
3. Describe a simple science experiment (e.g., how to make a volcano with baking soda).
4. Write a paragraph about how a seed grows into a plant.

See also Writing a Short Story and The Imperative Form.