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P.1 Identify and practice time-order words

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What are time-order words?

Time-order words are words and phrases that show the order in which events happen. They help writers organize their ideas clearly and guide readers through the sequence of events.

Examples:
  • first, next, then, finally
  • before, after, later, meanwhile
  • at the beginning, in the middle, at the end
Note

Think of time-order words as signposts that lead your reader from one step to the next in your writing.

Why are time-order words important?

Using time-order words makes your writing easier to follow. They connect your sentences and paragraphs, showing how events or steps relate to one another.

Examples:
  • Without time-order words: I woke up. I got dressed. I ate breakfast.
  • With time-order words: First, I woke up. Then, I got dressed. Finally, I ate breakfast.
Note

Readers should be able to understand the sequence of your ideas without confusion.

How do you use time-order words?

Place time-order words at the beginning of a sentence or clause to show when something happens. They can also be used in the middle of a sentence if that makes the meaning clearer.

Examples:
  • First, we packed our bags for the trip.
  • Later, we stopped for lunch.
  • We finished our meal and then went hiking.
Note

Vary your time-order words to make your writing more interesting and avoid repeating the same word too often.

Common time-order words and phrases

Here are some time-order words and phrases that fourth grade students often use in writing:

List:
  • at first, to begin with, first of all
  • next, then, after that, later on
  • in the meantime, meanwhile, during
  • finally, in the end, at last
Note

Choose the time-order word or phrase that best fits the situation. For example, use meanwhile when two things happen at the same time.

Using time-order words in writing

Time-order words can improve both stories and informational writing. They help readers know what happened first, what happened next, and how events connect.

Examples in Sentences:
  • To begin with, we planted the seeds. Next, we watered them every day. Finally, the flowers bloomed.
  • At first, I felt nervous. Later, I grew more confident. In the end, I gave a great presentation.
Note

Always reread your writing to make sure the time-order words you chose match the sequence of events.

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