Building the Foundation
Grade 1 focuses on developing fundamental capabilities that form the bedrock of all future learning. Students will master reading fluency, basic arithmetic, scientific observation, American citizenship concepts, and story comprehension. Every lesson builds confidence through achievable goals and celebrates the child's growing independence as a learner and thinker.
Key Grade 1 Capabilities
- Read 100+ sight words fluently and decode simple sentences independently
- Add and subtract within 20 using concrete objects and mental strategies
- Observe and describe natural phenomena using scientific vocabulary
- Identify American symbols and explain basic community roles and rules
- Retell stories with beginning, middle, and end in proper sequence
Subject Areas
🔢 Mathematics
Focus: Counting to 100, addition and subtraction within 20, understanding place value, measuring length, and identifying basic shapes. Students use manipulatives and real objects to build number sense.
36 weeks📖 Reading
Focus: Master all letter sounds, blend consonants and vowels, read 100+ sight words automatically, and decode simple sentences. Students progress from sounding out words to reading fluently.
36 weeks🔬 Science
Focus: Observe and describe plants, animals, weather, and basic properties of matter. Students learn to ask questions, make predictions, and record simple observations about the world around them.
36 weeks🇺🇸 Social Studies
Focus: Learn American symbols (flag, eagle, Liberty Bell), basic map skills, community helpers, and simple rules and laws. Students understand how families, schools, and communities work together.
36 weeks📚 Literature
Focus: Listen to and discuss classic tales, American folk stories, and simple chapter books. Students learn to identify characters, settings, and plot while building vocabulary and comprehension skills.
36 weeksWeekly Learning Structure
Each week follows a consistent pattern that builds mastery while maintaining engagement:
What Principles Matter for 6-7 Year Olds
Using Your Mind (Reason)
At this age: Children naturally ask "Why?" about everything. We teach them that their questions are valuable and that they can figure things out by looking carefully and thinking step-by-step.
Why it matters: Six-year-olds are building confidence in their thinking abilities. When they learn that their mind is reliable, they become eager, independent learners.
Learning Real Things (Reality)
At this age: Children learn best through hands-on experiences. We use real objects to teach math, real books for reading, and real places to learn geography.
Why it matters: First graders are naturally curious about the world around them. Connecting learning to real, concrete things makes knowledge stick and builds trust in their senses.
Learning Helps Me (Self-Interest)
At this age: Children understand "What's in it for me?" We show them how reading helps them enjoy stories, how math helps them count their toys, and how knowledge makes them capable.
Why it matters: Six-year-olds are developing their sense of competence. When they see that learning directly benefits them, they become motivated and excited about school.
I Am Important (Individual Worth)
At this age: Children are discovering their unique personalities and abilities. We celebrate each child's progress and never compare them to others.
Why it matters: First graders are building their self-concept. When they feel valued as individuals, they develop healthy self-esteem and confidence to tackle challenges.