Free Parent Guide
1
What Should a First Grader Know?
A practical skills checklist, a five-day learning routine, and free resources to help your first grader build confidence and prepare for second grade.
First Grade Skills Checklist
Key skills your first grader should be building across all subject areas.
Reading & Language Arts
- Decode CVC and CVCe words using phonics rules
- Read grade-level texts with fluency and expression
- Identify the main idea and key details in a story
- Write complete sentences with capital letters and end punctuation
- Spell common sight words and phonetic words correctly
Math
- Add and subtract within 20 fluently
- Understand place value for tens and ones
- Measure length using non-standard and standard units
- Tell time to the hour and half-hour
- Identify and describe 2D and 3D shapes
Science
- Observe and record changes in weather and seasons
- Identify basic needs of plants and animals
- Explore properties of materials (hard, soft, rough, smooth)
- Ask questions and conduct simple investigations
Social Studies
- Identify community helpers and their roles
- Understand basic map features (compass rose, map key)
- Describe family traditions and cultural celebrations
- Recognize national symbols and holidays
Social-Emotional
- Identify and manage a range of emotions
- Resolve conflicts with words and problem-solving
- Set a simple goal and track progress
- Show empathy and kindness toward peers
Five-Day Learning Routine
A simple weekly rhythm to keep first grade learning consistent and engaging.
Mo
Reading & Phonics
Decodable reader + phonics pattern practice
Tu
Math
Fact fluency drills + place value activity
We
Science
Observation journal or hands-on experiment
Th
Writing
Sentence writing + illustration
Fr
Review & Enrichment
Surge Skills games or creative project
Free First Grade Resources
Browse worksheets, activity packs, and lesson planners built specifically for first grade learners.