My dad taught me to drive forty-three years ago, so I learned the way he drove.
He was self-taught, he learned in the RAF during the war when he was posted in the dessert in North Africa, and his way was always to brake to the speed you need, and then select the appropriate gear.
I know that a lot of driving schools taught the 'down through the gears' method, although I think they now go for the way I was taught.
As far as approaching a junction is concerned, simply slow to the junction in 4th/5th, and as you come to a halt, you depress your clutch and go into neutral. As the lights change, you go into first, and pull away.
If you want, you can skip second, and go straight to third gear, and you can avoid third and go from second to fourth if you like - these are all individual choices.
Modern engines and gear boxes will take almost any combination you care you use - hope this helps.