Story Sequencing: First–Next–Then–Last Template

Before children can write or retell a story, they need to **order** it. A First–Next–Then–Last frame makes the sequence visible and gives them the connectives to talk about it.

How to teach sequencing

1. **Use a familiar story** or a simple real event (making toast, a school day). 2. **Model the connectives** — first, next, then, after that, finally. 3. **Order pictures together** before writing. 4. **Draw and caption** each stage using the template. 5. **Retell aloud** using the frame, then write.

How to use the free template

The template has four connected boxes labelled First, Next, Then and Last, each with a drawing space and writing lines. Children sketch and caption each stage, building a clear, ordered retell. Ideal for recounts, instructions and early narrative.

Quick tips

• Start with four steps; extend to more boxes as confidence grows.

• Works brilliantly for science methods and recipes too.

Download the free Story Sequencing template from the **Assets** box below.