Following and Giving Instructions

Overview

In this experience, students listen actively and interpret messages. Then they ask relevant questions. They improve their skills at following and restating complex instructions. Finally, they practice giving clear, multi-step oral instructions.

You should conduct the Scene 1 activity before students open the experience on their devices.

Students will work in pairs in Scene 5.

Much of the oral language used throughout this experience is routine classroom vocabulary. Ensure that ELL students are able to follow the various instructions, and tell them to ask for clarification as necessary.

Objectives

• Listen actively.
• Ask relevant clarifying questions.
• Restate and follow complex oral instructions.
• Give clear multi-step oral instructions.

Duration

In this scene, you will give students instructions while using facial expressions and body language that contradict the message. Tell students that they need to remember the instructions, but they may not take notes. This will test their ability to remember oral instructions.

Stand in front of the class, with a chair nearby and two markers in your hand. Give the class the following oral instructions:

I’m going to give you a list of things for the class to do. I need you to listen carefully so you can do exactly what I ask. I’m only going to say it once, and you cannot ask questions. Do not begin until I have given all the steps.

First, stand up. (Sit down in the chair and cross your legs.)

Second, cross one leg over the other. (Uncross your legs.).

Third, take out a pencil and hold it in your left hand. (Hold up the markers in a T shape.)

Fourth, put on an angry face and place the pencil on the far right corner of your desk. (With a big smile, place the markers on the floor, to your left, their right.)

Lead a discussion about the ways the conflicting body language and facial expressions can negate or confuse messages.