1st Grade

Grade-Level Overview

Literacy

In first grade, students develop an understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds, and connect those to written letters and words. They learn to read with purpose and understanding, read aloud accurately and with expression, and self-correct when a word doesn’t make sense.

Students build a love for reading through frequent read-alouds, shared reading, independent reading time, and creating reading journals. These activities help foster confidence, comprehension, and joy in reading.

Math

In first grade, students develop an understanding of numbers, how they relate to one another, and how to use them in addition and subtraction within 20. They learn to count forward beginning from any given number (instead of always starting at 1) and understand that the last number tells how many objects are in the set (cardinality).

Students practice counting, reading, and writing numbers to 120, develop understanding of place value (tens and ones), and work on skip counting by 2s, 5s, and 10s to build base-ten understanding.

Social and Emotional Skills

Students participate in collaborative conversations with peers and adults in small and large groups about grade-level topics and texts. They learn to follow agreed-upon rules for discussion—listening to others, taking turns speaking, and building on each other’s ideas through multiple exchanges.

Students also ask and answer questions to clarify understanding. Through activities such as think-pair-share, they practice active listening, respect, and clear communication, which support both academic and emotional growth.

Creative Skills

Art is taught weekly. Students experiment with different mediums, techniques, and skills, learning that everyone’s art is unique and valuable. They are encouraged to try new things, express themselves freely, and celebrate creativity.

Critical Thinking

First graders are encouraged to wonder and notice as they explore stories, lessons, and real-world problems. They share their opinions or solutions with reasons, identify problems and consider possible solutions, and reflect on how actions affect others. These activities nurture curiosity, reasoning, and empathy.

Special Programs and Extracurricular Activities

STEM: A weekly STEM activity promotes creative problem-solving and collaboration. Students engage in hands-on projects that encourage critical thinking and teamwork.

Field Trips: Field trips are planned throughout the year to complement classroom learning. First grade attends at least one field trip during the school year.

Assessments and Academic Milestones

Standardized Tests

Students participate in the MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) assessment up to three times per year in reading and math. Teachers also use classroom-based assessments and reading benchmarks to track progress and tailor instruction to meet individual learning needs.

Progress Reports

First graders do not receive traditional progress reports. Instead, formal report cards are sent home twice a year to share academic progress and growth.

Grade-Specific Events

Annual Events: First grade hosts the St. Francis Prayer Service each October.

Parent–Teacher Meetings:

• Curriculum Night (September): Parents are encouraged to attend to learn about classroom expectations and curriculum.

• Parent–Teacher Conferences (November): Held before Thanksgiving break, with optional follow-up meetings in February. These conferences celebrate growth and set meaningful goals for continued success.

Support and Resources

At this grade level, first graders receive a weekly math packet that aligns with their classroom lessons for that week. In addition, students take home a half-sheet phonics practice activity and a short reading passage to support literacy development.

Students are also expected to read for 20 minutes each night to build fluency, comprehension, and a lifelong love of reading. Families are encouraged to make this reading time enjoyable by reading together, discussing stories, and celebrating progress.

Technology Integration

Digital Learning Tools:
None at this time. Learning experiences focus on hands-on, concrete exploration and direct social interaction.