First Grade
First grade is a year of tremendous growth. It is a constant adventure. As first graders become more adept at reading and working with numbers, they begin to transfer their understanding of patterns to new learning. First grade is a time for building fluency and comprehension in reading and mathematics. First graders move from single word and phrase reading to reading early series books. They develop a foundational understanding of place value in mathematics through the use manipulatives and engaging math games. First grade students study families in social studies. In science they learn about light and sound, patterns in nature, plants and animals. They continue to learn about social skills to engage in self advocacy and peer relationships. They practice safe, responsible, and respectful decision making.
A typical day includes whole group and small group instruction in the core content areas. Students learn through shared, guided and independent practice of concepts and skills. In addition to core content areas, students attend a 45-minute class in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM or Library Media, and a 30-minute Physical Education and Health class daily.
The New York State Education Department (NYSED) is responsible for setting student learning expectations (standards) for what all students should know and be able to do as a result of skilled instruction. Each local school district develops curricula based on these established standards. Read more on the NYSED Standards & Instruction website.