How to implement it?

How to implement it?

The sequence of a story is often introduced and practiced in the context of a read-aloud for the whole class. You can choose to teach a standalone sequencing lesson or include sequencing as part of a longer lesson that leads to an oral or written recap of the story.

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The texts read aloud that work well to introduce the sequence of the story have simple narrative arcs and clear sequences of events. Sequencing can also help students understand more complex narrative structures, such as stories that are written out of chronological order or that include parallel accounts of the same events from more than one point of view.

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There are many ways to structure a sequencing class, from creating a reference chart with input from the students to having the students actively participate by coming to the front of the class to reorder movable images or strips of sentences.

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Diversity in the classroom

For second language learners, students with varied reading skills, and younger students.

• Provide scaffolding to the instruction by offering prompts for each section of the story map you are using. For example, in the "Beginning" box of your map, write prompts such as: Who is the story about? Where does the story take place?

• Vary the complexity of story maps and the sequencing words used. Some students may benefit from the very simple format of beginning-middle-end. More complex sequences, such as first-then-next-finally, can be used with students who are ready.

• Use wordless books. There are many wordless books that can be used for sequencing with students who have limited reading proficiency.

• Use translated books for image sequencing activities. Providing English learners with a copy of the text in their first language allows them to engage in sequencing and demonstrate their understanding of the concept and content.

• Model the sequencing with a smaller group of students using a familiar book with a very clear narrative structure to help students understand each component of the story.

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Extend learning

Writing

Students can use sequence words and graphics to help them write summaries of texts they have read or listened to. They can also use sequencing as a pre-writing technique to plan their own writing or use a reference chart of sequence words as a writing tool.

Mathematics

The majority of math curricula include worksheets on ordinal numbers (first, second, third, etc.). You can support students' sequencing ability by encouraging the use of vocabulary words such as "Which count comes first? Then which count? Which count is third?". Encouraging students to write the steps to solve addition and subtraction problems that involve regrouping is an excellent way for them to think about the steps in a logical order.

Sciences

Scientific research also develops sequencing skills. To study or observe changes in something, students must follow and record, in sequential order, what they notice. Students can document their observations by writing or drawing.

Social Studies

Timelines are an excellent way to teach sequence in social studies. Students may enjoy creating a timeline of their own lives, including important milestones such as when they learned to walk or talk, or when they wrote their name for the first time or rode a bike. Once students understand the process of charting important milestones on a timeline, social studies curriculum themes can be utilized. Try this printable timeline template.

Other ideas for sequencing

• Art and craft activities. The creation of quilts and other art and craft activities can reinforce the idea of sequencing and also introduce mathematical concepts (measurement, addition and subtraction, basic calculations, etc.).
• Cooking. Cookbooks for children can reinforce mathematical concepts (measurement, etc.) and sequencing while establishing connections with students' reading.
• Everyday activities. Create a sequencing page for a simple activity at home or at school. Fold a blank sheet of paper into squares. Start with 4 large squares. For older students, create more squares. Ask the children to draw the steps they know in the order they occur. For example, draw each step needed to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or to brush their teeth.

Evidence

Moss, B. (2005). Making a case and a place for effective content area literacy instruction in the elementary grades. Reading Teacher, 59, 46-55.

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This article is a free adaptation and translation of: Reading Rockets (n.d.) Story Sequence https://www.readingrockets.org/classroom/classroom-strategies/story-sequence