First Grade

  • The four main mathematical topics in First grade (taken from the Common Core Standards) are:


    (1) developing understanding of addition, subtraction, and strategies for addition and subtraction within 20; 

    (2) developing understanding of whole number relationships and place value, including grouping in tens and ones; 

    (3) developing understanding of linear measurement and measuring lengths as iterating length units; and 

    (4) reasoning about attributes of, and composing and decomposing geometric shapes. 
     

    * These are general overviews.  For more specific standards, follow the "Common Core Learning Standards" link on the left.



    Here are some quick ways to foster mathematical skills in everyday life:



    Give your child plenty of opportunities to count and measure

    • Have your child count the number of toys he or she puts away as they clean up
    • Have your child measure ingredients for a recipe you make together. 
    • Find the number of days until an upcoming event on a calendar by counting weeks (by 7’s) and then days (by 1’s).
    • Find creative ways to measure: How many shoes long is the bed? How many paper clips long is the tv? 
    • Have your child help set the table for dinner by counting backwards as he or she places down dishes.

    Find ways to practice number operations around the house

    • Pick a number and have your child try to guess the number.  After each of their guesses, tell them if your number was greater than or less than their guess. Have your child keep guessing until he/she gets your number. Then trade roles.
    • Count 9 pennies, then hide 4. Ask “How many are hidden?” 
    • Give your child a snack of 20 grapes.  After they eat 1, ask how many are left.

    Some family games that use math skills:

    • Any game that includes counting board steps, like Chutes and Ladders
    • Dice, cards, and board games can help your child learn addition combinations.
    • Dominoes helps practice counting by 5’s.
    • The card game “War” helps kids recognize which number is greater and which is less.
    • Yahtzee