ELT365 · Day 218 — Giving Clear Instructions
Idea
Instruction-giving is a teaching skill, not an administrative chore. Vague instructions waste lesson time and demotivate learners.
Example
Instead of ‘Work in pairs on the exercise’, say: ‘Work with your partner. Read each sentence. Choose the correct verb form. You have three minutes.’
Try
Write out the exact words you will use for your next task instruction — then count the steps.
From my training materials
Giving clear instructions is a skill I had to refine during my CELTA training, particularly when administering tests. I remember reviewing the teacher instructions for listening tests, which laid out a precise protocol: read questions first, play without stopping, then play again. The guide advises to “Focus on one section of the recording at a time.” This step-by-step clarity is crucial. If I were vague, students would be confused about when to start answering. The instructions are not just administrative; they are pedagogical.
The document emphasizes allowing students time to read through the questions for that section before starting the audio. This small but important pause reduces anxiety and ensures everyone understands the task. It demonstrates that clear instructions break down complex tasks into manageable steps. By following this structured approach, I save time and avoid the frustration of students asking, “What do we do next?” during the test. It is a practical reminder that instruction-giving is an interactive teaching moment.
Applying this to my regular lessons, I now write out the exact words I will use for task instructions. I count the steps and ensure each is simple. This preparation ensures that my instructions are as clear and focused as the test protocols I studied in my training file.
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