Unit Plan 29 (Grade 2 ELA): Procedural / How-To Writing
Second graders write how-to pieces that teach a task step by step. They list materials, use sequence words like first, next, then, finally, and add helpful tips or cautions. The unit builds clarity, organization, and grammar for real-world procedural writing.
Focus: Clear steps, sequence words; materials lists; tips
Grade Level: 2
Subject Area: English Language Arts (Writing • Language)
Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session
I. Introduction
Writers are teachers. This week, students plan and publish a how-to piece that teaches a small, doable task. They’ll list materials, write clear steps in order with sequence words (first, next, then, finally), and add a helpful tip/caution. Along the way they’ll practice sentence grammar/usage and conventions so any reader can follow the directions.
II. Objectives and Standards
Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…
- Write an informative/how-to piece that introduces the task, lists materials, gives steps in sequence using linking words, and ends with a closing (W.2.2).
- Apply grade-appropriate grammar and usage in commands/steps (imperative verbs, complete sentences) (L.2.1).
- Edit for capitalization, punctuation, and sound-spell patterns in the final draft (L.2.2).
Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 2
- W.2.2, L.2.1, L.2.2
Success Criteria — student language
- I can name the task and list the materials.
- I can write steps in order using words like first, next, then, finally.
- I can add a tip or caution that helps the reader.
- I can check grammar and fix capitals/end marks/spellings.
- I can end with a closing line that fits my how-to.