Short Video Instructions for the Classroom
Short video instructions for the classroom can save you time, reduce stress, and help students work more independently. Instead of explaining the same directions over and over, record a 1–3 minute video that students can replay anytime. While they follow along, you can focus on one-on-one support where it’s needed most.
How to Do It Step-by-Step
- Plan Your Instructions
- Break the activity into 3–5 clear steps.
- Decide what visuals or examples you’ll show.
- Record the Video
- Keep it short and clear—1–3 minutes works best.
- Speak naturally and keep your tone friendly.
- Show your materials, screen, or a quick demo.
- Make It Accessible
- Upload the video to Google Drive, your LMS, or your class website.
- Make sure students know exactly where to find it.
- Introduce It in Class
- Play it for everyone at the start of the activity.
- Remind students they can rewatch it if they forget a step.
Benefits for Teachers
- Frees your time for small-group or one-on-one help.
- Cuts down on repeated explanations and interruptions.
- Keeps instructions consistent for all students.
- Reusable for future lessons or absent students.
Benefits for Students
- Work at their own pace by replaying the video.
- Reduces anxiety about asking questions in front of others.
- Supports visual learners and English language learners.
- Clear, visual directions that match verbal explanations.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone
- Built-in camera or phone camera
- Built-in mic or external microphone for better audio
- Tripod or stand (optional)
Recommended Software (Free or Low-Cost)
- Screencastify – Chrome extension for screen and webcam recording
- Loom – Quick, shareable recordings
- Zoom – Record yourself in a meeting
- iMovie (Mac) / Clipchamp (Windows) – For simple edits
- Google Drive or YouTube (unlisted) – Easy sharing
Recording short video instructions for the classroom is a simple change that can have a big impact. It helps you manage your time, keeps students on task, and makes learning more accessible for everyone. Try it with your next activity—you might find your classroom runs smoother than ever.
If you’ve ever started an activity and immediately been swarmed with “What do we do again?” questions, you know how much time and energy gets wasted repeating instructions. Recording short video directions can completely change that.
When students can rewatch instructions at their own pace, you’re free to circulate, help struggling learners, and keep the class moving forward.
