Teaching procedure writing can be fun and engaging when paired with the right picture books. Stories with clear sequences, repetitive text, and humorous situations help students understand the concept of step-by-step instructions. Here are some of my favorite books to inspire procedure writing in K–3 classrooms, along with companion resources to save you planning time.
1. Wombat Stew by Marcia K. Vaughan
Wombat Stew is a classic Australian picture book that’s perfect for teaching recipe-based procedural writing. The story follows a hungry dingo intent on cooking up a wombat stew, but the other bush animals cleverly intervene to help their friend escape.
The repetitive, rhyming text quickly engages children—they love joining in with the “Wombat Stew” chant. This makes sequencing events and writing their own recipe a breeze. Kids enjoy collecting ingredients and creating their own step-by-step instructions.
👉 Get the Wombat Stew Differentiated Procedure Writing Worksheets here!
2. How to Sneak Your Monster Into School by Christopher Francis
This humorous story follows a young boy as he sneaks his imaginary monster into school. Children love brainstorming creative steps and imagining their own monsters, which makes this book ideal for procedural writing activities.
👉 Grab the How to Sneak Your Monster Into School Procedural Writing Worksheets here!
3. All of Adam Wallace’s “How To” Books
Adam Wallace’s series—How to Catch a Mermaid, How to Catch a Dinosaur, How to Catch a Yeti, and more—is perfect for procedure writing and STEM activities. These books allow students to combine writing with hands-on projects, such as designing and building their own traps.
The series encourages critical thinking, sequencing, and creativity, making it ideal for early primary classrooms.
👉 Check out the How to Catch a Bundle: Procedural Writing & STEM Worksheets here!
Why Use Books for Procedure Writing
Using engaging picture books like these allows children to:
- Learn how to sequence events logically
- Practice writing step-by-step instructions
- Combine literacy with hands-on STEM or creative activities
- Develop vocabulary, comprehension, and writing confidence
These books are excellent for introducing students to real-world applications of writing while keeping lessons playful and interactive.
More Teaching Resources
If you’re looking for additional procedure writing and STEM activities, you might also enjoy:
- Teaching with How to Move a Zoo – Engaging Classroom Ideas
- How to Catch the Easter Bunny in the Classroom
- How to Catch a Turkey – Thanksgiving STEM Activity & Procedural Writing
Visit Little Learner Hub to find more great teaching resources!