PREPARATION

A2 • Lesson 19

Explaining Processes

Vocabulary and reading to prepare for your lesson

Target Vocabulary

Click each word to see its meaning and an example.

Key Words

a process noun

A series of steps or actions to achieve something.

"The process of making coffee has several steps."

a step noun

One part or action in a process.

"The first step is to gather ingredients."

to combine verb

To put things together; to mix.

"Combine the flour and eggs together."

to mix verb

To stir things together.

"Mix the ingredients well."

to add verb

To put something into something else.

"Add salt to the water."

then, next, after adverbs

Words showing sequence in a process.

"Do this. Then do that. Next, add water."

finally, at the end phrases

Words showing the last step.

"Finally, serve it hot. At the end, enjoy!"

Speaking Chunks

The process is... phrase

Introduce a process explanation.

"The process is actually quite simple."

First, you... phrase

Start explaining the first step.

"First, you gather all the things you need."

Then you... phrase

Explain the next step.

"Then you add the water to the mixture."

After that, you... phrase

Continue the explanation.

"After that, you mix everything together well."

Finally, you... phrase

Explain the final step.

"Finally, you serve it to eat."

There are several steps to... phrase

Introduce a multi-step process.

"There are several steps to making tea."

Reading: How to Explain a Process

A process is a series of steps to do something. Many things have processes: cooking, making tea, or building something. Explaining a process clearly helps people understand how to do it.

Use words like "first," "then," "next," and "finally" to show order. You say "First, gather the things you need. Then, add the water. Finally, mix everything." These words make the process clear.

Use simple verbs in the process. You say "add," "mix," "combine," "stir." You use present simple or imperative form. Keep it simple and clear.

Number your steps if you can. You say "Step 1: Gather ingredients. Step 2: Mix them together. Step 3: Cook the mixture." This helps people follow easily.

Good process explanations are clear and organized. They use simple language. They show every step. Practice explaining simple processes you do every day.

~230 words • A2 Level

Discussion Questions

Think about these questions before your lesson.

Keyword Speaking Practice

For each question above, write maximum 3 keywords — no sentences. Then practise speaking your answer out loud from just the keywords.

Q1: "Explain how you make a cup of tea or coffee."

Your 3 keywords: / /

Speak for 30 seconds. Use "First... Then... After that..." to connect your steps.

Q2: "What is a process you do every day?"

Your 3 keywords: / /

Speak for 30 seconds. Describe the steps in order.

Q3: "What process words help you explain steps?"

Your 3 keywords: / /

Say your answer out loud — don't just think it!

Remember: keywords only. Your brain does the rest. Mistakes are good — they mean you're practising speaking, not reading.

Start Lesson 19 →

Preparation time: ~15 minutes