S - Unit 4 - A2

Giving instructions

In this video, Vanya helps Emir learn how to use a new coffee machine. Listen to the language Vanya uses to give instructions and practise saying the useful phrases.

Do the preparation exercise first. Then watch the video and do the exercises to check your understanding and practise the language. 

Ana: Hi! I'm Ana. Welcome to What to Say

Do you know what to say when you give instructions? Listen out for useful language for giving instructions. Then, we'll practise saying the new phrases – after this.

 

Emir: Argh! It's not working. 

Vanya: Are you OK?

Emir: Do you know how to use this machine?

Vanya: Yeah, I'll show you.

Emir: Ah, thanks.

Vanya: OK. First, you have to put the correct amount of coffee in here.

Emir: Aha.

Vanya: Then you press it down with this.

Emir: I see.

Vanya: Right, OK. Next, you put this here and turn it until it's quite tight.

Emir: Right.

Vanya: After that, you just press this button.

Emir: OK, that seems clear.

Vanya: Great! Now it's your turn. 

Emir: Is this OK?

Vanya: Yes, that's right. Now press it down.

Emir: Like this? 

Vanya: Yeah, you're doing well.

Emir: Thanks! What do I do next?

Vanya: Connect it to the machine.

Emir: Is there anything else?

Vanya: That's it. Just press the button.

Vanya: Well?

Emir: Delicious! Thank you.

Vanya: You're welcome. 

 

Ana: Hello again! Oh, I love a good coffee! So, did you notice the useful phrases used for giving instructions? Listen to me and then repeat. 

 

First, you have to put the coffee here. 

Then you press it down with this.

I see.

Right, OK. Next, you put this here.

After that, you just press this button.

OK, that seems clear.

Is this OK?

Yes, that's right.

Like this?

You're doing well.

What do I do next?

Is there anything else?

 

Ana: Try and use some of these phrases the next time you give instructions in English. Bye for now!


Giving instructions in English at an A2 level involves using simple language and clear, concise expressions. Here are some common phrases and expressions used for giving instructions:


Starting Instructions:

"To start with..."

"First, ..."

"Begin by..."

"To begin, ..."


Giving Steps:

"Next, ..."

"Then, ..."

"After that, ..."

"Following that, ..."

"Continue by..."


Using Imperatives:

"Do this..."

"Press this button..."

"Take this..."

"Click on..."

"Turn left/right..."

"Open the..."

"Close the..."


Sequencing:

"First, do..."

"Secondly, ..."

"Thirdly, ..."

"Finally, ..."


Clarifying:

"Do you understand?"

"Is everything clear so far?"

"Any questions?"


Offering Help:

"If you need assistance, just ask."

"Feel free to ask if you're unsure."

"Don't hesitate to seek help."


Concluding:

"That's all for now."

"You're finished."

"You're done."


Providing Warnings:

"Be careful..."

"Make sure to..."

"Watch out for..."

"Remember to..."


Examples of Instructions:


Making a Sandwich:

"To make a sandwich, first, take two slices of bread. Then, spread some butter on one slice. Next, add your favorite filling, like ham or cheese. After that, place the other slice of bread on top. Finally, cut the sandwich in half and it's ready to eat!"


Using a Computer:

"To use the computer, start by pressing the power button. Then, wait for it to boot up. After that, click on the 'Start' button on the bottom left corner of the screen. Next, select the program you want to use from the menu. Finally, to shut down the computer, click on the 'Shut down' option in the start menu."


Assembling Furniture:

"To assemble the furniture, first, lay out all the parts on the floor. Then, take the screws and bolts and insert them into the corresponding holes. After that, use the provided tool to tighten them securely. Next, attach the legs to the main frame. Finally, flip the furniture upright and it's ready to use."


Remember to speak slowly and clearly, and to check for understanding after giving each instruction.