Story Mapping with Pictures
To develop story comprehension and sequencing through pictorial story mapping.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Draws key events in sequence
- Identifies beginning, middle, end
- Uses map to retell
- Creates maps independently
Materials
- Large paper divided into sections
- Coloured pencils
- Story just read
- Example story maps
Instructions
After reading a story, model story mapping: 'Let's draw what happened in the story! First — at the beginning — what happened? The girl found a seed. I'll draw that here.' Draw quickly — stick figures are fine.
Divide the paper into three sections: beginning, middle, end. 'In the first box, we draw what happened at the start. In the middle box, what happened next. In the last box, how it ended.'
Children create their own story maps. Circulate and ask: 'What's happening in this picture? What happened after that? How did the story end?' These questions scaffold sequencing.
Use story maps for retelling: 'Can you use your map to tell me the story? Point to your first picture — what happened?' The map provides a visual scaffold for oral retelling.
Display story maps alongside the books they represent. 'Aiden drew a brilliant map of Handa's Surprise — look how he drew all the fruits!'
Build towards independent mapping over the term. By the end, children should be able to map a simple story without adult support.