Sequencing Events Notes & Questions | Class 4 English | Drishti OS

Sequencing Events

What you'll learn

Sequencing means putting events in the order they happen — first, next, then, finally.
Order words like first, next, after that, then, finally help readers follow a story or a set of steps.
Understanding sequence helps you follow instructions and retell stories correctly.

Key concepts

Level 1 — Everyday sequences

Morning routine: Wake up → Brush teeth → Have breakfast → Go to school.

Level 2 — Sequencing in stories

Look for order words (first, then, next, finally) to find the correct order of events in a story.

Level 3 — Working out order without clue words

Sometimes you must use logic: a seed must be planted before it can grow, and a cake must be baked before it can be eaten.

NCERT anchor: Marigold 4 (CBSE English reader) — story sequencing and narrative comprehension.

Worked example

Order these: The seed sprouted. The seed was planted. The plant grew tall. The seed was watered.

Step 1 — Think about what must happen before what.
Step 2 — A seed is planted, then watered, then it sprouts, then it grows tall.
Answer: Planted -> Watered -> Sprouted -> Grew tall.

Common mistakes

Mistake	Why it happens	Fix
Ordering events by where they appear in the question, not the story	Not reading the passage carefully	Reread the story and note order words
Ignoring words like 'before' and 'after'	Skimming too fast	Underline order words as you read
Confusing cause and effect order	Not thinking about what must happen first	Ask: "Could this happen without the other event first?"

Quick check

What is the first step in brushing your teeth?
In planting a seed, what comes after digging a hole?
Stretch: Write four steps of your favourite recipe or daily activity in the correct order.

Revision tip: Practise retelling a short story using the words first, next, then, and finally.

Open the Practice tab for graded questions on Sequencing Events.

Sequencing Events