- Number sequencing is a vital foundation for learning math and understanding practical life skills like handling money. For first graders, number sequence games should cover numbers no higher than the student’s familiarity with numbers. Examples include games which present students with a sequence of numbers such as zero to 10, with one number missing. Students are asked to review the sequence and identify the missing numeral. Another option for sequencing numbers is to present a list of numbers out of normal sequence and have students properly arrange the numbers.
- Understanding time and date are essential to daily modern life. First graders can better understand their own schedule by mastering the proper sequence of the days of the week and the months of the year through sequencing games. One example, which will work for both months and days of the week, involves a puzzle type game. Students are given small individual pieces of paper listing either the seven days of the week or twelve months of the year. Each of the pieces of paper is cut into a puzzle shape which fits into the complementary shape of its neighbors. Students work to assemble the puzzle based both on lessons concerning days and months, as well as the shape of the puzzle piece. When assembled, the puzzle pieces will list the correct sequence of the days or months.
- The sequence of instructions allows individuals to properly perform a task. For first graders learning to recognize sequences and understand their importance will provide them with the skills to better follow instructions. Games to teach sequencing of instructions can include organization games. Students are given the instructions for a specific task such as brushing their teeth or making toast. Individually or as a group they must arrange each step of the task in the correct order. Students can be asked to consider and discuss what they think would happen if one step were misplaced. While the results might be humorous to the class, they will also demonstrate why correct sequencing of instructions is so important.
- Stories often have a clear structure with a beginning, middle and end. These components of a story are possible through the sequence of events which comprise the plot of the story. A game identifying the correct sequence of events in a story through images from a book can help to build this essential reading skill. To prepare for the game, students should be read a book. Photocopied pages from the book are then divided among the class. Students can be given the opportunity to color these images before assembly. Next, using a large area such as the chalkboard or a blank wall in the classroom, students are asked to work collectively to arrange the images in the correct story order.
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