Instructional Text - Mini Bottle Rocket Activity

Arrange the following instructions on how to make a mini bottle rocket in order.

1. 1. Wrap the baking soda up in the kitchen roll to make a little parcel.

2. 2.When you're ready to launch, drop the baking soda parcel into the bottle, quickly add the cork, put the rocket down, and stand back.

3. 3. Use tape to attach 3 straws to the side of the bottle so it stands up, upside down.

5. 4. 5. Pour about 3cm of vinegar into the bottle.

6. Choose a launch area outside. It needs to be a hard surface.

Answer explanation

• In order

• 1. Use tape to attach 3 straws to the side of the bottle so it stands up, upside down.

• 2. Pour about 3cm of vinegar into the bottle.

• 3. Wrap the baking soda up in the kitchen roll to make a little parcel.

• 4. Choose a launch area outside. It needs to be a hard surface.

• 5. When you're ready to launch, drop the baking soda parcel into the bottle, quickly add the cork, put the rocket down, and stand back.

In your groups discuss and match the following words from the instructional text with their meanings.

A. A stopper for a bottle B. To send into the air C. A sticky strip D. A package - E. A sour liquid used in cooking

Vinegar -

Parcel -

Cork -

Launch -

Tape -

Answer explanation

• Vinegar: E) A sour liquid used in cooking

• Parcel: D) A package

• Launch: B) To send into the air

• Cork: A) A stopper for a bottle

• Tape: C) A sticky strip

Evaluate and discuss the structure of the instructional text.

As a group, answer the following questions:

• 1. What role does the materials list have in helping the reader comprehend the instructions?

• 2. What is the structure of the instructions?
  3. Why is the warning at the end important?

Answer explanation

1. The material list helps readers follow the directions without interruptions by ensuring they have everything they need before beginning the activity.
2. The step-by-step format of the directions makes it easy for the reader to follow along logically.
3. By emphasising the possible hazards and required safety measures, the warning guarantees people's protection.

Identify the adverbs in the mini bottle rocket instructional text.

In your groups discuss their placement and use in sentences.

For each adverb found, create a new sentence using them correctly.

Answer explanation

Adverbs in the text: Quickly, tightly, outside, and back.

Any sentence that is correct in context made with the words above can be accepted.

In groups: Talk about the instructional text's register, or tone.

1. Is the tone casual or formal? Provide examples to back up your response.
2. How does the reader's understanding as well as engagement change depending on the register?

Answer explanation

1. 1. Register is semi-formal. It provides concise and clear instructions that any audience can understand.

   Examples: Use, pour, choose, wrap, and drop indicates an instructional tone that is direct. Clear language is used to emphasize safety in the warning.

2. 2. The instructions are easier to follow because of the semi-formal style, which also provides a serious tone that ensures readers understand the importance of following the steps correctly.