Language Arts: Writing a How-To Paragraph Worksheet

Question 1

A how-to paragraph explains how to do something. Write a topic sentence for a paragraph about how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Accepted Answer

A good topic sentence is: I can explain how to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Question 2

Put these steps in the correct order: Spread jelly on one slice of bread. Put the two slices together. Get two slices of bread. Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread.

Accepted Answer

The correct order is: Get two slices of bread. Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread. Spread jelly on one slice of bread. Put the two slices together.

Question 3

Choose the best order word to finish the sentence: ______, wash your hands before you start cooking.

Accepted Answer

The best order word is First, because washing your hands should happen before cooking begins.

Question 4

Write three steps that explain how to brush your teeth. Use First, Next, and Finally.

Accepted Answer

A good answer is: First, put toothpaste on your toothbrush. Next, brush all your teeth gently. Finally, rinse your mouth and put the toothbrush away.

Question 5

Read the sentence: Then, I put my shoes on. Is this a good first sentence for a how-to paragraph? Explain your answer.

Accepted Answer

This is not a good first sentence because the word Then shows that something already happened before it.

Question 6

Write a closing sentence for a paragraph about how to plant a seed.

Accepted Answer

A good closing sentence is: Now you know how to plant a seed and help it grow.

Question 7

Add an order word to improve this step: ______, water the seed gently.

Accepted Answer

A good answer is: Next, water the seed gently. The word Next helps the reader know this step comes after another step.

Question 8

Which sentence gives a clearer step? A. Get the thing. B. Pick up the blue crayon.

Accepted Answer

Sentence B gives a clearer step because it tells exactly what to pick up.

Question 9

Write a how-to paragraph that explains how to pack your backpack for school. Include a topic sentence, at least three steps, and a closing sentence.

Accepted Answer

A good paragraph is: I can explain how to pack my backpack for school. First, put your folders and notebooks inside. Next, add your pencil box and homework. Then, put in your lunch or water bottle if you need them. Finally, zip the backpack and place it by the door.

Question 10

Read these steps: First, crack the egg into a bowl. Next, stir the egg with a fork. Finally, cook the egg in a pan. What is this how-to paragraph mostly about?

Accepted Answer

This how-to paragraph is mostly about how to cook an egg.

Question 11

Write two details that could be added to this step to make it clearer: Wash the apple.

Accepted Answer

A clear answer is: Hold the apple under cool water and rub the skin with your hands. These details tell how to wash the apple.

Question 12

Fix this mixed-up how-to paragraph so the steps are in order: Finally, eat the cereal. First, get a bowl and spoon. Then, pour milk into the bowl. Next, pour cereal into the bowl.

Accepted Answer

The correct paragraph is: First, get a bowl and spoon. Next, pour cereal into the bowl. Then, pour milk into the bowl. Finally, eat the cereal.

Question 13

Write a topic sentence for a paragraph that teaches how to draw a simple house.

Accepted Answer

A good topic sentence is: I will explain how to draw a simple house.

Question 14

Choose the sentence that belongs in a how-to paragraph about making a paper airplane. A. My dog likes airplanes. B. Fold the paper in half lengthwise.

Accepted Answer

Sentence B belongs in the how-to paragraph because it gives a step for making a paper airplane.

Question 15

Write a complete how-to paragraph that explains how to get ready for bed. Use at least four order words.

Accepted Answer

A good paragraph is: I can explain how to get ready for bed. First, put on your pajamas. Next, brush your teeth. Then, choose a book or say good night to your family. After that, get into bed. Finally, turn off the light and rest.

Language Arts: Writing a How-To Paragraph

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