UNIT: CATAPULT

ACT-Based Writing: Editing & Improving Clarity in a Catapult Assembly Manual

OBJECTIVE:

Students refine technical writing by improving clarity and precision in instructional materials.

Materials Needed:

Poorly written assembly instructions for a catapult

Writing tools

Editing checklist

Student Directions:

Goal:
You will practice technical writing by reviewing and revising unclear instructions in a catapult assembly manual. Your goal is to improve clarity, accuracy, and logical flow to ensure others can build the catapult correctly.

Step 1: Review the Original Instructions

Read the sample assembly manual provided.

Highlight or underline vague, confusing, or overly general directions.

Look for:

Steps that lack specific actions or parts (e.g., “put the thing” or “do the next part”).

Steps that are out of order or missing key information.

Grammar or punctuation mistakes that affect understanding.

Step 2: Revise for Clarity and Precision

Rewrite the unclear steps using strong technical writing practices:

Use specific nouns (e.g., "wooden base," "pivot arm," "rubber band").

Use precise action verbs (e.g., "insert," "tighten," "align").

Use sequential logic (e.g., Step 1, Step 2…).

Add measurements or part labels where necessary.

Ensure each step is easy to follow for someone with no background knowledge.

Example Revision:
❌ "Put the thing on and make sure it works."
✅ "Attach the launching arm to the rotating bracket using a 3-inch bolt. Tighten with a screwdriver until the arm moves smoothly."

Step 3: Use the Editing Checklist

Check your revised instructions against this list:

Are all steps written clearly and logically?

Are the correct parts named and described?

Are actions explained in the proper order?

Is punctuation and grammar correct?

Could a classmate build the catapult using only your instructions?

Work with a partner to review and edit each other’s rewrites using this checklist.

Step 4: Group Discussion

With your group or class, discuss:

Why is clarity important in technical writing?

How could a vague or inaccurate instruction lead to failure in a real-world engineering project?

Share an example of a confusing step you revised and how you improved it.

ACT-STYLE QUESTION:

Which revision best improves the clarity of an instructional step?

"Put the thingy in the slot and make sure it works."

"Attach the wooden arm to the base using two screws, ensuring the arm can pivot freely."

"Take a part and put it somewhere so it stays steady."

"Assemble it like the picture shows, then try it out."