Story Sequencing

Objectives & Outcomes

Students will be able to sequence a fairy tale story using the words first, second, next, then, and last.  

Materials Needed

Pencils, colored pencils, paper for each student, *story cards (with a scene from the story on each card), poster with words first, second, next, then, and, last written on it, "The Gingerbread Man" by McCafferty, Catherine (another story can be used).

*Teacher can make the story cards by drawing main scenes from the story on each.

Procedure

Opening to Lesson

• To introduce the sequencing lesson and gain students' attention, the teacher can tell a silly "out-of-order" story about his/her day. For example : "This morning, I woke up and ate dinner. Then, I put my pajamas on and went to school. Next , I brushed my teeth played with my friends".
• This can lead into a conversation about the importance of putting events in order.
• Introduce the concept of sequencing.

Body of Lesson

Modeling

• Read the focus story, "The Gingerbread Man".
• After reading the story, bring out a large poster that already has the words first, second, next, then, and last written on it.  The words are ordered like a train.  There will be an arrow starting at first and pointing to last.
• Use the pre-made story/picture cards to sequence the events in the story.
• To check for understanding, you can intentionally place some cards in the incorrect place to see if students are following along.
• You can use gestures and body language to help convey the words.
• You can use slower speech with physical cues and clear articulation when approaching key topics.

Guided Practice

• Students will be divided students into  5 groups.
• Each group will be given an event from the story  to illustrate.   They will work together to delegate responsibilities and roles.
• After the students illustrate their scene, we will gather together on the rug.
• Students will put the events in order.
• They will use a  bold marker to add the words first, second, next, then, and last to each drawing.
• As a class, we will go over their work, as we order the events  by using the sequencing words (first, second, next, then, last).

Independent Practice

• Students will work independently to sequence the events from "The Three Little Pigs".
• Students can draw the sequence of events in the story.

Closing

As a closure, students can act out the story using sequencing cues from the teacher.

Assessment & Evaluation

Student drawings from the "Independent Practice" section can be used as an assessment tool.

Modification & Differentiation

Provide sentence strips with the words first, then, next, and last.  This way, students could refer to the order when in need. Provide mini lessons to students who need additional help.  Provide opportunities for students to draw and act when child has difficulty communicating.

Related Lesson Plans

Ready to Pursue a Master’s Degree in Education? Make it Your Time!

Teacher.org’s lesson plans encourage conceptual understanding and lifelong learning skills in students as well as empower and motivate teachers.

Are you currently teaching but have the desire to pursue a Master’s Degree in Education? Follow your passion for teaching but at the same time give yourself the tools to further your career and learning. Whether it’s higher salaries, advanced career opportunities, or leadership positions, earning your Master’s Degree in Education is one worth pursuing. Make it your time!