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Practicing how to tell what happens first, next, and last in a book.
Imagine trying to eat a sandwich with the bread in the middle and the peanut butter on the outside—it would be a sticky mess! Just like a sandwich, a story needs a special order to make sense.
The Beginning is the very start of our story train. It is like opening a gift! In the beginning, we meet the characters (who the story is about) and see the setting (where the story happens). We often hear words like First or Once upon a time. This part sets the stage so we know what is going on before the action starts.
Quick Check
What two things do we usually learn about in the Beginning of a story?
Answer
We learn about the characters and the setting.
The Middle is the biggest part of the story. This is where the Next happens. Usually, a problem occurs or something very exciting starts. The characters might try to solve a puzzle, go on a long walk, or face a challenge. It is the bridge that connects the start of the story to the finish. Without a middle, the story would be very short and boring!
Let's look at how a plant grows in order: 1. Beginning: A tiny seed is planted in the dark soil. 2. Middle: The sun shines and rain falls, helping the seed grow a green stem. 3. End: A bright red flower opens up for everyone to see.
Quick Check
If a character loses their favorite toy, which part of the story is that likely to be?
Answer
The Middle.
The End is the Last part of our story train. It is where everything gets wrapped up. If there was a problem in the middle, it usually gets solved here. We see how the characters feel after their adventure. We might hear words like Finally, Last, or The End. It makes us feel happy or satisfied that the story is finished.
Can you find the order in this story? 1. Beginning: Sam gets a brand new kitten named Mittens. 2. Middle: Mittens gets scared and hides under the big porch where Sam can't reach her. 3. End: Sam uses a smelly tuna treat to lead Mittens back into the warm house.
Look at these mixed-up sentences and put them in order : - Sentence A: They put on their pajamas and went to sleep feeling happy. - Sentence B: It started to rain, so the kids had to stay inside and were sad. - Sentence C: The kids decided to build a giant fort out of blankets and pillows.
Order: Sentence B (Beginning), Sentence C (Middle), Sentence A (End).
Which part of the story tells us WHO the story is about?
In the story of a race, which part would show the runner crossing the finish line?
The Middle of a story is usually where a problem happens.
Review Tomorrow
In 24 hours, try to tell a family member the three parts of a 'Story Train' and what happens in each.
Practice Activity
Tonight, when you read a bedtime story, try to point out exactly when the 'Middle' starts and when the 'End' begins!