We use the base form of the verb to give instructions: Open the app. Press the button. Turn on the screen reader. For the negative we use “Don’t”: Don’t press that button!

To be polite, add “please”: Please open the menu. In writing and speaking, instructions are short and clear: one action = one sentence.

When we explain a process, we use sequence words: First, … Then, … Next, … After that, … Finally, … These words help the listener follow the steps in the right order.

Put a comma after most of them: First, open the app. Then, tap “Search”. Finally, say the name of the song.

To ask how to do something, we say “How do I…?” or “How can I…?” For polite help: “Can you show me how to…?” “Could you help me, please?”

Useful answers: Just press… You need to… Try this… It’s easy! After a problem: It doesn’t work. I can’t open it. The sound is too quiet.

• What kind of phone do you have?
• Do you use a computer every day?
• Do you like using apps?
• How often do you send messages?
• Who helps you with technology?
• Is your phone loud enough for you?
• Can you turn up the volume?
• Do you have a screen reader on your phone?
• Is it easy to use?
• What is your favourite app?
• Do you listen to audio messages?
• Do you remember your passwords?

• Explain how to send a message step by step.
• Explain how to make a phone call. Use first, then and finally.
• How do you open your favourite app?
• What can’t you do yet with your phone? What would you like to learn?
• Tell me about a time technology didn’t work.
• How do you ask for help when you don’t understand something?
• What do you do when you forget a password?
• How do you teach someone to use a phone?
• What is the most useful app for you, and why?
• Describe how to charge a phone.
• What do you do when the sound is too quiet?
• How did you learn to use technology?

• How has technology changed your life?
• Are screen readers and voice assistants important? Why?
• Should all websites be easy to use for everybody? Explain.
• What are the good and bad sides of using phones?
• Is it difficult to learn new technology when you are older? Why or why not?
• How can people with different needs be included in technology?
• Do you trust apps with your personal information? Why?
• If you could invent a new app, what would it do?

• How do I turn off my phone?
• Can you show me how to record a voice message?
• What do I press to call someone?
• How do you turn the volume down?
• What do you do first when you get a new phone?
• Which button do you press most often?
• Do you swipe or tap more?
• How do I save a number?
• Can I ask my phone a question?
• Do you use voice control?
• Do you ever forget your phone at home?
• Who do you call first when something goes wrong?

• Do you think everyone should have a smartphone?
• Would you like to talk to your phone instead of typing?
• What if the internet stopped for a week?
• Is it better to learn from a book or from a video?
• Which is better for you: a phone call or a message?
• Would you like a robot to help you at home?
• Do you think children use technology too much?
• What advice would you give to a person who is afraid of technology?

← Unit 16: Touch and Textures  ·  Extra questions  ·  Unit 18: Finding My Way →