Creating a How-To Video

“How to” Essay

It's not so easy to write a how-to essay. The first step is deciding on a topic, but if you're like many students, you might feel as though you don't know anything well enough to teach others. But that's not true! Everyone has something to share.

How-to essays, also known as process essays, are like recipes. They provide instruction for carrying out a procedure or task. You can write a how-to essay about any procedure that you find interesting. Your essay topic must be approved by Mr. Palmieri by: ______________________.

There are 2 parts to this major project.
• Part one will be the written (typed) portion. Your essay should contain all of the components of a typical narrative essay such as: an introductory, a body and a conclusion. Your introduction should explain why your topic is important or relevant. For example, your paper about "How to Wash a Dog" would explain that dog hygiene is important for your pet's health. Your essay should include transition words found in your blue book.
• Part two will be a video that you create with your iPad. This will serve as a listening and speaking grade for the trimester. This is not a trailer. Your movie should include you completing every step in the process and feature your “finished product”. You will be graded on the level of your voice, presence, creative design, appeal and keeping your audience entertained, yet informed. If you choose to do credits at the end of your movie, don’t forget to include any friends or family members that helped you film. You may work with friends during this portion, but it is graded individually.

The attached sheet has ideas that you can use for your topic. This project will be due