10. Explaining How to Do Something

Explaining How to Do Something 

Objective:
In this lesson, you will learn how to clearly explain a process or task to someone else. This skill is important for daily life and the CELPIP exam, as you may be asked to describe how to perform certain activities. You’ll also practice using appropriate grammar to give step-by-step instructions.

1. Key Grammar Concepts to Use

When explaining how to do something, it’s important to use the following grammar structures:

1. Imperative Sentences (Commands)

• Usage: Use imperative sentences to give direct instructions or commands.
  • Examples:
    • “First, boil the water.”
    • “Next, add sugar and stir it well.”

2. Sequence Words

• Usage: Use words that help sequence actions logically so the listener or reader can follow the steps easily.
  • Examples:
    • First, then, next, after that, finally.
    • “First, gather all the ingredients. Then, mix them together.”

3. Modal Verbs for Instructions

• Usage: Use modal verbs like should, must, can, and could to offer advice or suggest options.
  • Examples:
    • “You should turn off the oven when the cake is ready.”
    • “You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry.”

4. Present Simple Tense

• Usage: Use the present simple tense when describing regular actions or a general process.
  • Examples:
    • “You mix the ingredients in a bowl.”
    • “The machine starts when you press this button.”

5. Conditional Sentences

• Usage: Use conditional sentences to give alternate actions or instructions based on conditions.
  • Examples:
    • “If the dough is too dry, add a little water.”
    • “If you don’t have a printer, you can email the form.”

2. Conversation Sample

Here’s a sample conversation where one person explains how to bake a simple cake:

Conversation:

Person 1: I’ve never baked a cake before. Can you teach me how?

Person 2: Sure! It’s easy. First, preheat your oven to 180°C. Then, gather all your ingredients—flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and baking powder.

Person 1: Okay, got it. What’s the next step?

Person 2: Now, mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl—flour, sugar, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and butter until smooth. After that, combine everything and stir well.

Person 1: Do I need to use a mixer for that?

Person 2: No, you can do it by hand. Once everything is mixed, pour the batter into a greased cake tin. Finally, put it in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes.

Person 1: That sounds simple enough! How do I know when it’s done?

Person 2: You can stick a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

3. Guidelines for Explaining How to Do Something

When explaining how to do something, follow these steps:

1. Introduce the task:
   • “Today, I’ll explain how to make a cup of chai.”
   • “Here’s how you can change a flat tire.”
2. List the materials or items needed:
   • “First, you’ll need tea leaves, water, milk, and sugar.”
   • “Make sure you have a spare tire, a jack, and a wrench.”
3. Give step-by-step instructions in a logical order:
   • “Boil the water in a saucepan. Then, add the tea leaves and let it simmer.”
   • “Use the jack to lift the car. Next, loosen the bolts and remove the tire.”
4. Use sequencing words to maintain flow:
   • “Next, pour in the milk and sugar. After that, let it boil again.”
   • “Finally, replace the tire and tighten the bolts.”
5. Offer optional advice or alternate steps:
   • “If you prefer strong tea, add more tea leaves.”
   • “If you’re on a hill, make sure to use the parking brake first.”
6. Conclude by explaining the result:
   • “After that, your chai is ready to serve.”
   • “Once the tire is secure, lower the car and you’re all set!”

4. Practice Time!

Now it’s your turn! Explain how to perform a task by answering the following questions:

1. What task will you explain?
2. What materials are needed for the task?
3. What are the steps involved in completing the task?
4. What advice or tips would you offer to make the task easier?
5. What is the final result after completing the task?

Write or speak your answers using the grammar tips and sequencing words from the lesson!

5. Difficult Words and Meanings

Here are some words you might find difficult, with their meanings and example sentences:

1. Preheat – To heat an oven or appliance before using it.
   • Example: “Preheat the oven to 180°C before you start baking.”
2. Grease – To apply a thin layer of fat or oil to a surface to prevent sticking.
   • Example: “Grease the cake tin so the batter doesn’t stick.”
3. Simmer – To cook something gently at a low temperature.
   • Example: “Let the tea leaves simmer in the boiling water.”
4. Wrench – A tool used for gripping and turning objects, typically bolts.
   • Example: “Use a wrench to loosen the bolts on the tire.”
5. Toothpick – A small stick used to check if food, like cake, is cooked.
   • Example: “If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done.”

6. Selfie Assignment

Task:
Record a 2-minute video where you explain how to do something. You can choose a task like making a dish, fixing something at home, or explaining how to complete a simple chore. Make sure to:

• Introduce the task.
• List the items needed.
• Provide step-by-step instructions.
• Share any helpful tips.