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.