Unit 3: Explaining Processes and Actions

Illustration

In this unit, you will learn how to describe simple steps in a scientific experiment or project. You will practise using basic action verbs to explain what happens first, next, and last.

Trong bài học này, bạn sẽ học cách mô tả các bước đơn giản trong một thí nghiệm hoặc dự án khoa học. Bạn sẽ thực hành sử dụng các động từ hành động cơ bản để giải thích điều gì xảy ra đầu tiên, tiếp theo và cuối cùng.

Unit Goal

Can-do statement: I can describe simple processes and actions in experiments or projects.

In science and engineering, we often explain what people do step by step. We use simple verbs and clear sentences.

Key Vocabulary

Word Simple Meaning Example
mix put things together Mix water and salt.
add put something in Add more water.
turn move a switch or knob Turn the machine on.
start begin something Start the experiment.
stop end something Stop the machine.
measure find the size, amount, or length Measure the temperature.
calculate find an answer using numbers Calculate the result.
write put words on paper Write your notes.
read look at words and understand them Read the instructions.
plan think about what to do before starting Plan the project.
build make something Build a simple model.
test check if something works Test the device.
check look carefully Check the answer.
observe watch carefully Observe the reaction.
use work with a tool or object Use a ruler.

Understanding a Process

Exercise Context

A process is a series of actions.

When we explain a process, we usually:

  1. Start with the first action.
  2. Describe each step in order.
  3. Use clear verbs.

Example:

1. Measure the water.
2. Add the salt.
3. Mix the solution.
4. Observe the result.

Grammar 1: Present Simple

When do we use it?

We use the present simple to describe facts, routines, and processes.

Pattern:

Subject + base verb

Examples:

  • The student measures the liquid.
  • We test the model.
  • The machine starts automatically.
Worked Example 1
Process sentence: "The engineer checks the device."
Subject = The engineer
Verb = checks
This sentence describes a regular action.

Grammar 2: Imperative

What is an imperative?

An imperative gives instructions or commands.

Pattern:

Base verb + object

Examples:

  • Mix the chemicals.
  • Add the water.
  • Write the result.
  • Check the answer.

We often use imperatives in manuals, experiments, and project instructions.

Worked Example 2
Instruction: "Measure the temperature."
There is no subject.
The sentence starts with the verb "measure".
This is an imperative sentence.

Grammar 3: Can

Using "can"

We use can to talk about ability.

Pattern:

Subject + can + base verb

Examples:

  • I can measure the length.
  • She can calculate the answer.
  • We can build a simple model.
Worked Example 3
Sentence: "Students can use a ruler."
Subject = Students
Modal verb = can
Base verb = use
Meaning: Students have the ability to use a ruler.

Useful Language for Explaining Processes

Sequence Words

  • First
  • Next
  • Then
  • After that
  • Finally

Example:

First, measure the water.
Next, add the salt.
Then, mix the solution.
Finally, observe the result.

Summary

  • Use vocabulary such as mix, add, measure, test, check, observe to describe actions.
  • Use the present simple for facts and processes.
  • Use the imperative for instructions.
  • Use can to talk about ability.
  • Use sequence words to explain steps clearly.
🔑 Đáp án & Giải thích

Giải thích ngữ pháp:

  • Present Simple: dùng để nói sự thật, quy trình hoặc hành động thường xuyên. Ví dụ: "We test the model."
  • Imperative: dùng để đưa ra hướng dẫn hoặc mệnh lệnh. Ví dụ: "Add the water."
  • Can: dùng để diễn tả khả năng. Ví dụ: "She can calculate the answer."

Ví dụ quy trình:

First, measure the water.
Next, add the salt.
Then, mix the solution.
Finally, observe the result.

Hãy chú ý sử dụng động từ đơn giản và sắp xếp các bước theo đúng thứ tự.