What Do Kids Learn in First Grade? + Activities, Too!

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Have a Child Going Into First Grade?

Last week I shared what kids learn in Kindergarten for those mamas with little ones just beginning school.  This week I’m continuing the series and exploring what kids learn in first grade.  For those of you with kiddos starting first grade this year, here’s what your child will learn by the end of the school year…

What Do Kids Learn in First Grade?

Enhanced Reading Skills
Your first grader learned how to read in kindergarten, so in first grade they’ll learn how to read even better.  First graders will use phonics and word analysis skills to move up on the reading scale.  Reading is one of the most important things first graders will work on, because it’s the basis of learning independence at all future grade levels.

Reading Comprehension
Not only will your first grader work on their reading skills, but they will also build more reading comprehension skills.  When they are reading, are they understanding what they are reading and able to communicate it back?  By the end of first grade, students should be able to recognize and communicate a book’s characters, setting, and plot.  Some reading activities:

Research & Writing
Your child started writing in kindergarten, but first grade is where these skills are really developed.  Your child will go beyond writing their name and simple sentences to writing about a topic with a sense of opening and closing.  Through this writing practice, they’ll also learn proper sentence structure and punctuation.  They will do creative writing and journaling as well as research-based writing, too.  Some more reading and writing activities:

Math Speed & Accuracy
First Grade math will continue with addition and add on subtraction with the emphasis on building speed and accuracy.  Most of that practice will be within the sum of 20, but your first grader may even dabble in addition up to 100.  Aside from addition and subtraction, first graders also begin to explore units of measurement and simple fractions using shapes.  Some math activities:

Social Studies & Science
During first grade, students will often have more intentional social studies and science lessons.  Your students may learn about world cultures, diversity, the presidents, historical dates in the history of the USA, and more.  In science, first graders often learn about plants and animals.  Some social studies and science activities:

Self-Expression through the Arts
The former-art teacher in me cannot leave out the arts!  Visual, performing, and musical arts at this age are generally focused on self-expression and exploration of materials.  In first grade, your child should have opportunities to explore art materials and musical instruments.  They should also gain exposure to the use of arts throughout history and cultures.  Some art activities:

Looking for more detailed information about what kids learn in First Grade?  The National PTA has great printable parent guides on how to support kids for success in each grade.

Have a child going into First Grade?  Or have your kids already been through it?  Is there anything you would add to this list?  Share in the comments below!

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