Sequence Chart (First-Next-Then-Last)
Four ordered blank boxes.
The Sequence Chart (First-Next-Then-Last) gives early learners four ordered blank boxes, each labeled with a transition word, to map out events in the order they happened. Kindergarten through grade 4 students use it to retell stories, explain procedures, and document science observations step by step. Teachers in primary grades rely on it during shared writing and guided reading to build the concept of narrative and procedural order. Parents can use it at home after reading a picture book to help a child practice retelling before bed. The four-part structure mirrors the natural language children already use—"First we mixed, then we poured"—making the jump from thinking to writing feel small and achievable. Because the boxes are completely blank, the same sheet works for a fairy-tale retell on Monday and a cookie-baking how-to on Friday.
Learning objectives
- Understand and use sequence vocabulary: first, next, then, last
- Retell stories or procedures in correct chronological order
- Plan writing by organizing ideas before drafting
- Develop early reading comprehension through structured retelling
- Build the habit of breaking multi-step tasks into ordered parts
How to use this template
- Print one copy of the chart per student or small group.
- Read a story, observe a process, or think through a set of steps together.
- Students draw or write the first event in the box labeled "First," then continue through Next, Then, and Last.
- Review the completed chart aloud—have students point to each box and use the transition word as they retell.
- Collect as a formative check or keep in a writing folder for students to reference during independent writing.
Classroom & home ideas
- Use it after a read-aloud to retell the beginning, problem, attempts, and resolution of a story.
- Guide students through a science experiment retell—first we observed, next we predicted, then we tested, last we recorded.
- Assign as a how-to pre-writing frame: students sequence steps before drafting a procedural piece.
- Use in morning meeting: students sequence their morning routine as a quick fluency and speaking activity.
- Display a completed model on the board and have partners compare their charts, discussing any differences in what they each chose as key events.
Skills & curriculum links
Frequently asked questions
Can kindergarteners use this chart without writing skills?
Yes. Students can draw pictures in each box rather than writing words. The teacher or a partner can scribe the transition words below each drawing during a guided activity.
What if a story has more than four events?
Students choose the four most important events. This is a valuable comprehension skill in itself—deciding what is essential enough to include in a four-step summary.
Is this the same as a story map?
It overlaps, but the focus here is purely on order and transition words rather than on character, setting, or theme. The Sequence Chart is ideal for procedural texts and step-by-step science observations as well as narrative retelling.
How can I reuse the chart across multiple lessons?
Laminate a class set and students write with dry-erase markers. Alternatively, slide the printed chart into a plastic sleeve for the same reusable effect.
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