Reading: Understanding Different Text Types & Genres: B1 Lesson 2: Understanding Simple Instructions, Recipes, and Product Descriptions
CEFR Level: B1 (Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Understanding Different Text Types & Genres
Specific Focus: Understanding Simple Instructions, Recipes, and Product Descriptions
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Identify the purpose and key features of simple instructions.
- Identify the purpose and key features of simple recipes.
- Identify the purpose and key features of simple product descriptions.
- Scan these text types for specific information.
Hello Cambodian Learners!
Every day, we read different kinds of texts that help us do things or learn about products. Instructions tell us how to assemble furniture or play a new game. Recipes guide us in making delicious food, maybe a simple Khmer dish. Product descriptions tell us about things we might want to buy, like a new phone or a traditional Cambodian craft from a market in Battambang. Understanding these texts is very practical!
Exploring Functional Texts
Let's look at these three types of texts. Click on the example areas to hear parts of them read.
1. Instructions
Purpose:
To tell someone how to do or make something, or what rules to follow.
Key Features:
- Often uses imperative verbs (commands like: "Open", "Add", "Do not touch").
- Steps are usually in a clear order (numbered or with words like "First", "Next", "Then").
- May include diagrams or pictures.
- First, take two light sticks and make a cross shape.
- Next, tie the sticks together in the middle with string.
- Then, cut paper or plastic to fit the frame and glue it on.
- Finally, attach a long string to be the kite line.
2. Recipes
Purpose:
To provide instructions for preparing a particular dish or drink.
Key Features:
- Title of the dish.
- List of ingredients (often with quantities).
- Step-by-step method or instructions.
- May include cooking time, serving size, or pictures.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup of yogurt
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
- Put all ingredients into a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
3. Product Descriptions
Purpose:
To describe a product and often to persuade someone to buy it.
Key Features:
- Name of the product.
- Details about its features (e.g., size, color, material, what it does).
- May include benefits of using the product.
- Often includes price or where to buy it.
This beautiful hand-woven silk scarf is made by local artisans in Battambang.
Perfect as a gift or a stylish accessory. Soft, elegant, and unique!
Price: $15 USD
Practice Time!
Activity 1: What Kind of Text?
Read each short text excerpt below. Click the button that correctly identifies its type.
Activity 2: Find the Information
Read the sample text and answer the question about it.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Understanding instructions, recipes, and product descriptions is very helpful for everyday life. You're learning to find the information you need from these practical texts!