Alphabetical order means putting words in the same order as the letters of the alphabet: A to Z. This skill helps you find information quickly in dictionaries, glossaries, and indexes.
Always start with the first letter of each word. The word with the letter that comes earliest in the alphabet goes first.
When arranging words, look at the first letter of each word. Put the words in the order that the alphabet lists those letters.
Remember: A comes before L, and L comes before Z.
If words have the same first letter, compare the second letter. Continue comparing letters until you find a difference.
Check letters one by one, moving left to right, until the words are in the correct order.
Alphabetical order is an important reference skill. It helps you use dictionaries, glossaries, word walls, and indexes to find meanings and information faster.
When you know alphabetical order, you can find and organize information independently.
Say the alphabet slowly and point to the letters as you compare words. This helps you check which letter comes first.
Keep the alphabet chart nearby when you are learning. With practice, you will not need to look every time.