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Scratchjr Maths

Where is sequencing hiding in ScratchJr story pages?

Put pages in order and use first, next, then and last.

Quick answer

Sequencing is hidden in ScratchJr story pages because you need to put events in order using words like first, next, then, and last to tell a story properly.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to put events in the right order in your ScratchJr story and use the words first, next, then, and last to explain what happens.

  • I can sort story events from beginning to end
  • I can use the correct order words to tell a story
  • I can make a story that makes sense when I play it
  • I can help my friend understand how my story works

Why this matters

Sequencing is a super important skill that helps you understand how things happen one after another. In ScratchJr, you use this skill to make your story make sense. It’s like telling a story to a friend, but you have to make sure the events happen in the right order. If you don’t, the story gets confusing!

Sequencing helps you in school too. When you read a story, you need to understand what happens first, then next, and so on. When you write your own story, you need to put the events in the right order. In games, you often have to follow steps in order to win. In real life, you need to know what to do first, then next, then last, like getting ready for school or cooking dinner.

How it works

Sequencing in ScratchJr means putting your story steps in the right order. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Think of your story – What happens in your story? Start with the beginning.
  2. Write down the events – List what happens in your story from start to finish.
  3. Use order words – Use words like first, next, then, and last to show the order.
  4. Put your steps in the right order – Drag and drop your story steps in the correct order.
  5. Play your story – See if your story makes sense when you play it.

Examples you can see

Let’s look at a simple story about a cat and a ball:

Step What happens
First The cat sees a ball
Next The cat pushes the ball
Then The ball rolls away
Last The cat chases the ball

In ScratchJr, you would make a story with these steps and use the order words to help you build your story.

Another example: A story about making a sandwich:

  1. First, you get bread
  2. Next, you spread butter
  3. Then, you add cheese
  4. Last, you close the sandwich

Each step needs to happen in order, or your sandwich won’t turn out right!

Try it as a mini adventure

Adventure: Help the Robot Collect Treasure!

You are a robot who needs to collect treasure from a cave. But you must follow a special path to get the treasure. Here is your adventure:

  1. First, you must walk to the cave entrance
  2. Next, you must turn left at the cave
  3. Then, you must go straight for 3 steps
  4. Last, you must pick up the treasure

Now, you can use ScratchJr to make your robot follow these steps. Each step must be in the right order. If you mix them up, your robot won’t find the treasure!

Can you create a story with your robot that follows these steps?

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Putting steps in the wrong order.
    Why it happens: Sometimes it’s hard to remember what comes next.
    Fix: Draw a quick picture of your story steps and number them from first to last.
  • Mistake: Forgetting to use the words first, next, then, and last.
    Why it happens: You might be so focused on drawing your story that you forget to use the order words.
    Fix: Always ask yourself, “What happens first? Next? Then? Last?”
  • Mistake: Not testing your story.
    Why it happens: You might think it’s okay if it looks good, but it doesn’t work when played.
    Fix: Play your story again and again to make sure it makes sense.

Parent and carer guide

Helping your child with sequencing in ScratchJr can be fun and easy. Here are a few ways to support them:

  • Ask questions: Ask your child to tell you the story they are making. Ask, “What happens first? What happens next?”
  • Use real-life examples: Talk about your day. “First, we brush our teeth. Next, we eat breakfast.”
  • Make a story together: Draw a simple story with your child. Number the steps and talk about the order.
  • Play and test: Let your child play their story and see if it makes sense. If not, help them fix it.
  • Don’t rush: Sequencing takes practice. Be patient and encourage your child to try again if it doesn’t work the first time.

Practice questions

  1. What word do we use to show the very first thing in a story?
  2. Which word comes after “first”?
  3. What word means “the last thing that happens”?
  4. Which word comes after “next”?
  5. What is the order of these steps?
    1. Turn on the light
    2. Walk to the door
    3. Open the door
    4. Go outside

Answers:

  1. First
  2. Next
  3. Last
  4. Then
  5. First: Walk to the door, Next: Turn on the light, Then: Open the door, Last: Go outside

FAQ

What is sequencing?

Sequencing means putting things in the right order. In a story, it means knowing what happens first, then next, then after that, and last.

Why do we need to use words like first, next, then, and last?

These words help us understand the order of events. They make our story easy to follow and fun to listen to.

Can I use sequencing in other games or activities?

Yes! You can use sequencing in cooking, sports, building, and even in games like board games or puzzles. It helps you know what to do next.

How can I help my child practice sequencing at home?

You can ask your child to tell you a story about their day, or play a game where you take turns putting steps in order. You can also use everyday activities like getting dressed or brushing teeth to talk about order.

What if my child gets confused with the order words?

It’s okay to get confused at first. Practice with simple steps and use visual aids like pictures or a chart. You can also use a song or rhyme to help remember the order words.