Describing a process
Describe processes and life cycles: sequence language, the passive voice and a clear overview of stages.
In this lesson you will
- Write an overview of a process (number of stages, start and end)
- Use sequencing language
- Use the passive voice accurately
Learn
Overview: Overall, there are seven stages in the process, beginning with… and ending with… For natural cycles: …a cyclical process with no clear beginning or end.
Sequencing: First/Initially, Next, Then, After that, Subsequently, Once…, At the following stage, Finally. Vary them.
Passive voice for man-made processes: The beans are harvested, then dried* in the sun. Once they have been roasted, they are ground…*
Use the diagram’s words but change forms where possible (packaging → are packaged). Describe every stage — processes don’t have ‘key features’ to select.
Examples
- Overall, the production of bricks involves seven stages, from digging clay to delivery.
- Once the clay has been shaped, it is dried for 24–48 hours.
- Finally, the bottles are transported to shops.
Vocabulary
stage
one step in a process
cyclical
repeating in a cycle
subsequently
after that (formal)
harvest
collect crops
grind
crush into small pieces (ground)
Practice
For man-made processes, use mainly…
Writing
The diagram shows how recycled glass bottles are made into new bottles: 1) bottles collected from recycling bins; 2) transported to a plant; 3) sorted by colour; 4) washed; 5) crushed into small pieces; 6) melted in a furnace at 1,500°C; 7) moulded into new bottles; 8) delivered to shops. Summarise the process. Write at least 150 words.
- ☐ Overview with number of stages
- ☐ Every stage described
- ☐ Passive voice
- ☐ Varied sequencing
- ☐ Accurate details
Lesson quiz
A water cycle is…
Review
Key points
- Overview: number of stages, start, end.
- Sequencing variety.
- Passive voice.
- Describe every stage.
What you learned
- ✓ I can describe processes.
- ✓ I use the passive accurately.
- ✓ I sequence clearly.
Grammar reference: The passive voice