First Grade

First grade is the perfect time to start teaching your students about place values. Learn about teaching place value using ten base blocks for first grade math with help from a math teacher in this…

Addition games are a great way to get kids interested and engaged in the concept of mathematics. Learn about addition games for first grade teacher to play in class with help from a math teacher in…

Students are so used to grades of "A," "B," "C," D" and "F" that they find themselves in confusion when handed a grade of "IP." This is merely…

First grade students may not understand that earth is primarily covered in water or the importance of the water cycle. Teaching first grade students about snow's role in the water cycle will lay a…

Teaching the elements of story-writing to first-graders involves reducing the elements to basic and easy-to-understand concepts. As first-graders are often inexperienced at writing, it is best to have…

One of the more basic concepts that children can learn in first grade is that of basic trade. A goods and services lesson can teach children the basics of how money works as both a means to purchase…

The density of ocean water depends on the temperature of the water and on how much salt is dissolved into the water. You can dissolve salt into fresh water to simulate sea water in the classroom and…

First-grade math expands upon the basic number concepts taught in kindergarten. Structured addition lesson plans with a variety of hand-on math activities give the first-grade students the practice…

Writing is an essential skill that begins to take off in the first grade. First graders learn to spell, use correct punctuation and write in complete sentences. Many children this age find writing…

First grade is the time when students typically learn to write structured sentences and simple paragraphs. First grade is not too soon to teach persuasive writing. Children in first grade can even…

Drawing cats can be a great way to teach first graders about animals. Learn how to draw cats step-by-step for first graders with help from an artist in this free video clip.

Making predictions is a natural learning strategy that allows students to think about a process or event before it happens, thus laying the groundwork for new learning. Prediction can be used for any…

First grade introduces the concept of dividing equally and parts of a whole. First-grade students work a lot on addition and subtraction, but they also begin to examine fractions by observing halves…

First graders learning to read will need to understand the concept of vowel diagraphs. The term diagraph describes two letters that form a single sound. In a vowel diagraph, the first vowel brings the…

Although the task of finding and selecting the best school for your first grader can be challenging, it's certainly not impossible. First grade is a time where students build on, and gradually expand,…

Learning odd and even numbers is a skill first graders will use for their entire life. Teaching this skill to young children may present a challenge, but the use of games tends to speed up the process…

Teaching grammar to first graders can definitely be a challenge. Not only are students of this age level still learning important principles for reading, spelling and writing in general, but they are…

Gravity is the force of attraction between massive bodies. While the complex physics of gravity can be fascinating, only the most basic and observable properties of gravity should be taught to…

It's all about chemistry. That's what psychologist Dr. Michael Thompson says about the relationship between student and teacher. "In the end, there is a fit between child and teacher," he…

First grade students are ready and eager to learn. Things about their environment both fascinate and puzzle them. Shadows come and go, they shrink and grow menacingly tall and at night shadows can…

Whether you want to name six or 60, character traits are what guide people's behavior and values, in both positive and negative ways. Though the concept of character traits can be somewhat abstract…

While first-grade math seems simplistic to many adults, it is a crucial year in a child's mathematical development. Success in first-grade math will help a child build a strong foundation so math…

Number scrolls, sometimes called number charts, are blank grids that let children can fill in the number, somewhat like a graph. Number scrolls help children learn to count and help them see visual…

Among the many tasks that first graders must accomplish, they must learn high frequency words that they are likely to hear throughout their daily lives. For example, "book" is a high…

Detectives play an important role in solving crimes throughout the United States. They are primarily responsible for investigating crimes at the local level, although some detectives do work at both…

Children who learn to access their imaginations and think creatively at an early age benefit from these skills for the rest of their lives. Creative people are more likely to be active problem…

A SMARTBoard is an interactive white board and display screen manufactured by Smart . Educators can use SMARTBoards to create interactive lessons for their classes. Students can interact with the…

First grade is an ideal time to start dreaming about a future career. Through seeing how different people contribute to the community, first-graders will start developing both an awareness of various…

The first grade science curriculum in many areas contains requirements to teach life science. By the end of kindergarten, students often learn that animals have different characteristics such as fur,…

First grade students can learn much about the characteristics, growth and requirements of living things through crafts and games focused on a familiar and valued creature – the ladybug. Many…

Most first-graders understand the concept of opposites and need some practice to expand their vocabulary. Teach them the “big” word “antonym” and encourage them to use it when…

First-grade students are ready to learn how to read and write numbers. They have already mastered the skills of tying their shoe laces and using a knife and fork to eat. This age group enjoys and…

Homeschooling allows you to tailor instruction to your child’s specific learning style and interests. Using educational resources and support services, your instruction plan can be designed with…

Fluency is a vital reading skill to learn in the first grade. Not only should reading fluency be accurate, but it should also require no conscious effort and fundamentally become a pathway to…

For people who like small children and are very patient, teaching first grade can be an ideal career. With a large geographic area and a growing population, Texas is one of the largest employers of…

Language learning is vital in the early grades, and first grade offers a time for youngsters to develop on what they learned in preschool and kindergarten. Controversies abound as to the best way to…

According to Learning First Alliance, first grade is often the time many children learn how to read and develop a sense of identity about their abilities -- good or bad. Whether a child learns to read…

Use caterpillar crafts in your classroom as projects during art time or to teach a science lesson. These caterpillar projects are great supplement for lessons on caterpillars and their life cycles.…

Of all the skills your child will master, few are predictors of success more than first grade reading skills. In fact, students who struggle with first grade reading often go on to experience…

Classrooms need to be an environment in which students feel safe and can trust one another. Teachers help to create this kind of environment by ensuring that children build relationships to work…

We use ordinal numbers on a daily basis to help us put a variety of different things in order. For instance, ordinal numbers are used to order the results of races, to describe calendar dates and to…

Some of the most valuable lessons elementary students can learn are about community. If you are a teacher, you can achieve this by teaching your students about how the government works, civil rights…

Practicing number sense with first-graders helps them build confidence in their understanding of numbers, their order and relationships, and the effects of addition and subtraction. Number-sense…

First graders love arts and crafts, both for their artistic and sensory appeals. Using sand around the house or in the classroom enables these young children to be creative while exploring a natural…

A reading workshop serves a small group of students who are all at a similar reading level. First-grade teachers work with a workshop group anywhere from every day to once a week, depending on the…

Elementary school students need to learn basic measurements used in society in order to understand information conveyed to them and communicate throughout their lives. While the majority of the world…

Comprehension is a student’s ability to understand and remember what he reads. Students who have good comprehension can remember and analyze what they read. They can connect what they learn in…

Reading skills contribute to a majority of the academic curriculum presented to first-grade students. At this age, reading levels vary greatly, but the use of expressive reading in the classroom…

When teaching first graders about plants, focus on a basic introduction to the growth processes, structure and variations in plants. Link plant lessons to the students' daily experiences. Engage…

First graders are at a stage of development in which they are able to be more independent when making crafts. Simple animal crafts are a project that first graders are able to create with little…

Learning to count is a skill that elementary students will carry through the rest of their lives. Knowing not only how to count sequentially, but by skipping numbers and counting in 2s, 5s, or any…

"Little Bear," written by Else Holmelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak, launched Harper Brothers "I Can Read" series when it was published in 1957. It is the first in a series of five…

As an educator, it is important to consistently observe students in the elementary classroom. Formal and informal observations can help an instructor plan curriculum, note behavioral problems and…

The first grade social studies and science curriculum includes information about the community. Students learn about people, places and things in the neighborhood. You may invite community members to…

Math is introduced to children as early as preschool. You may find that some students grasp math concepts easily while others struggle. For first graders, skill level can vary greatly. Some students…

Recycling is widely accepted as a necessary practice to reduce the number of resources consumed by people. It is a simple task, with city and county programs implemented around the country, and it is…

Expository writing seeks to explain or describe a certain topic to the reader. Training first graders in expository writing can help them develop an instinct for the structure and conventions of…

Estimation is a useful mathematical skill that we use consistently in everyday life, so teaching first graders the basics can help build a solid foundation for future use. Plan your lessons to fit in…

During first grade, mathematics instruction extends past basic concepts and becomes more in-depth and detailed. During this grade, students begin to apply the basic skills they have learned in…

Though they can't vote, young children are often curious about voting and Election Day. Get your first-graders involved in Election Day and teach them the importance of voting with engaging…

The transition from kindergarten to first grade marks a change for students from a half-day to a full-day program and the approach to learning also changes for young students, especially in math.…

Combining crafts with lessons not only helps to keep the attention of young children focused on their lesson, but allows them to express their creativity and develop important motor skills. Creating…

The beginning of your school day sets the tone for the rest of the day. Start your first-grade students off right with some gathering-time activities they can do while you take care of administrative…

The first days of school are a time for students and teachers to get to know one another and begin feeling comfortable in their new classroom surroundings. Let students make artwork to personalize the…

Kindergarten and first grade are important milestones in a young child's life. For many children in this age group, it may be the first time that they've been separated from their parents for such an…

Literacy workstations are almost essential for a strong Language Arts block in first grade. These independent activities empower students to take control of their own learning while allowing teachers…

Number sense refers to a person's general understanding of numbers and operations. First graders need to build a strong sense of numbers as a foundation for future math success. Concepts include…

During the first grade, students learn the fundamentals of how to read, write and count. It is a time where students may learn how to tell time and learn about different seasons of a year. Students…

It's hard to beat the delicious taste of fresh-churned butter. For a classroom activity first graders will remember for years, let the students make their own jar of butter. With a few simple…

Used to highlight the first word of a sentence or proper nouns, capital letters emphasize a word's importance, setting them apart from the rest of the words in a sentence or in ordinary parts of…

In kindergarten, children are typically introduced to the concept of temperature in a very basic and rudimentary way that usually goes no further than distinguishing hot from cold and attaining a…

Think twice the next time you visit the supermarket or throw out some eggs nearing the expiration date. These may serve the curious minds of first-graders. There are several science experiments that…

Studying different countries in first grade lends itself to fun and creative crafts projects that enhance lessons. As a teacher, keeping learning interesting can become a challenge. By allowing…

High frequency words are the most commonly used words in the English language. These hundred or so words make up nearly half of all written English content. Because these common and often-used words…

First-grade students tackle some very basic skills as the foundation for what they will learn over the next 12 years. Missing a step in comprehension and mastery of a skill creates problems for the…

Learning how to read and write are basic skills that children begin learning at the very beginning of their academic careers. Phonics and high-frequency words are a focus of literacy instruction in…

Adding longhand without a calculator can be tricky enough with whole numbers, but throw in decimals and the complications can pile up. Following a few simple generalized tips can help to minimize…

Boys in first grade are active and need games and interactive activities to hold their attention. As a teacher, you can help Japanese boys stay active and learn about their culture by playing…

Learning to count coins teaches kids counting and money values, which not only improves their math skills, but also imparts valuable lessons about handling money. Activities for counting dimes and…

Compound words provide children with a new tool that expands their exploration of language. First-grade children learn to form compound words by joining two unrelated words to make a new word.…

Listening skills don't come naturally to everyone. Many of us spend the time we should be listening thinking of the next thing we'll say or we are preoccupied with unrelated thoughts. Effective…

Turn your first grade students into little geologists and help them learn a few things about the natural world by presenting them with lessons and activities that relate to rocks. Through age…

Students participate more fully in class when the daily lesson is fun. Use games to teach your students how to solve systems of linear equations by substitution.

First-graders are full of energy and questions. Any topic can be interesting, especially the subject of bats. Teaching about bats should be appropriate for first-graders as well as creative, engaging…

"Grade 1 is the onset of formal learning for most school districts, and it presents children with a far more ritualized and structured learning environment," according to a 2007 article published by…

Subtraction of fractions is the same as subtraction of whole numbers once you have the same denominator. Getting to common denominators is often the most difficult part of teaching adding and…

Kindergarten children are busy learning several early math skills and concepts, including how to count. Just as important as learning how to count forward is how to count backward, as counting…

Decimals are rational numbers that let you express values that are greater than or less than one whole. Values that are greater than one are written to the left of the decimal, while numbers written…

If you're looking to teach your students the principles of averaging and finding the mean of a sample, there are several different drills and activities you can use. Finding the mean is an important…

Regrouping in addition is what those of a certain age used to call, "borrowing and carrying." Before introducing the concept of regrouping, children should be familiar with basic addition and the…

Recess allows children to burn off excess energy they have bottled up all day sitting still in the classroom. Outdoor play reduces stress and builds children's imagination. Forming exercise habits…

Fifth graders who are accustomed to multiplying integers (whole numbers) should not find the task of multiplication with decimals too difficult. The tricky part of multiplying decimals is placing the…

A negative sentence is one indicating something is untrue. Often made as a statement, negative sentences employ negation words such as "no" and "not," sometimes featured in contractions like "don't,"…

Learning to add numbers together is a vital math skill. A student needs to know how to add so that he can then go on to develop his math knowledge, using this skill. Prior to learning how to add two…

There are many important math skills to learn throughout life. One of those skills is teaching math methods to students.Teaching regrouping methods will require patience and repetitiveness. These math…

Listening is a skill that students need to develop, just like writing, reading and math. It is important that students learn to listen and to listen creatively. When listening, a student takes what he…

Double-digit subtraction, also know as two-digit subtraction, can be difficult for students to learn because it involves thinking in terms of larger numbers. Teaching students to solve the problems…

Students entering second grade should already be familiar with the basic concepts of money and have some familiarity with the value of the different denominations. However, if a student has not yet…

Help your first-grade students remember the school year by featuring specific types of crafts at the end of the year. Save pictures throughout the year for crafting and use paint, glitter and other…

The fifth grade is often the final grade of elementary school. By the end of the fifth grade, students should have a strong basis in the fundamentals of mathematical reasoning and arithmetic. Students…

In most elementary schools, fifth-grade students are the oldest and biggest in the building. They are looked to as the leaders who set the tone for the younger students in the building. Giving these…

Reading is its own reward; however, for many youngsters who are still working to build their reading skills, extrinsic motivation proves helpful. The R.E.D. Zone is part of a motivational reading…

Different children pick up math skills using different teaching methods. This makes it necessary for teachers to mix it up a little bit in the classroom. The use of several ideas for drilling addition…

Typically, fifth-grade students understand addition and subtraction at the point where they can quickly combine integers. To challenge students with an addition or subtraction group activity, ask them…

Run-on sentences, a common error made by second-grade writers, are two or more complete sentences that run together without punctuation. Run-on sentences often leave readers confused. Use games and…

First graders have many exciting ideas to explore in their science classes -- so many, in fact, that it can be hard to decide what to focus on. Essential questions organize concepts in the form of…

Kids don't always practice their addition problems like they should, but addition is an important building block for higher math skills. Luckily, there are several fun and easy games that can help…

At Branches Atelier, a private preschool in Santa Monica, California, several children are surveying the area under the trees on the playground. The trees are dry, and the children worry that they…

First-grade teachers, especially, novice teachers, may find that they are at a loss for classroom ideas. Think outside the box and visualize the classroom as a whole. Creative ideas don't have to be…

Success in mathematics involves more than knowing your times tables and polygon names. Math instruction should be geared toward developing conceptual understanding of curriculum standards along with…

Introducing students to the concept of vertical subtraction can be a daunting task for many teachers. This concept can be difficult for many students to grasp. But if teachers have the right tools and…

Very few real life math problems come with easy-to-work-with numbers, yet these are the problems that often require quick mental math. Compatible numbers, which are easy-to-work-with numbers that are…

Using an interactive whiteboard such as the SMART Board in the classroom increases student engagement and motivates them to learn. The many different learning styles in the classroom can be met with…

Grade seven students should be comfortable with addition and subtraction, not just of whole numbers, but also of fractions, decimals and integers. Some students may still not have grasped these skills…

Basic addition of two one-digit numbers is one of the first math skills that children are taught. Once they master one-digit addition and place value, they are ready to progress to two-digit addition.…

Math educators teach addition before subtraction because addition is an easier concept for young learners. Teachers often use addition as a context for teaching subtraction. In such a way, the…

Memory games can be a lot of fun for first-graders but you don't want to make the game too complicated at the beginning. You will want to start out with easy games and slowly work toward more…

You cannot overstate the importance of rules in a first grade classroom. The rules that first graders learn in the classroom will serve as the framework and foundation for the rest of the students'…

Psychomotor development in children is the development of their mental ability, or cognizance, and their motor skills, or movement and physical response. A first-grader needs to have a certain…

Addition is one of the basic mathematical functions. When students learn addition, they first learn to add two single-digit numbers together. Once they have a firm understanding of single-digit…

Going back to school can often be a difficult time for young children. They may find it hard to transition from being home to being in school, or they may feel uneasy with their new surroundings and…

Lessons taught at any grade level are based on state standards defining what concepts are to be taught. Standards are similar from state to state. The California Department of Education state…

Counting is one of the first mathematical skills children are taught, as being able to successfully count is necessary for all other mathematical skills and success in everyday life. During…

Regrouping is a curriculum standard for most states in the second grade. Many students find regrouping difficult. The process of regrouping requires the students to have a good understanding of number…

Addition and subtraction are essential math skills for pupils to master. Students must gain an understanding of the concepts of adding and subtracting before progressing to the memorization of math…

While summer reading book lists have long been a standard of high school curriculum, many teachers are expanding this requirement and having students create summer projects based on their reading.…

Adding and subtracting decimals is a skill that students must master. However, it is also a subject that can be a bit overwhelming for some of the students in your fifth-grade class. Therefore, weave…

First grade is full of many significant "firsts." Students typically learn to read, write, add and subtract. They are graded on their efforts, often for the first time. First-grade teachers encourage…

When a classroom is well-managed, problems and misbehaviors are prevented rather than punished. A structured classroom can increase the amount of learning that takes place and encourage students to…

Internet nickel games vary from animated cartoon interfaces to standard worksheets with photos of coins, as well as word coin problems. Many games can be customized in skill range and scope of the…

First grade students can learn about light and sound online by playing computer games and conducting virtual experiments. Learning sites online provide teachers and students with an array of…

High-frequency activities are ones that help kindergartners start to learn high-frequency words, also called sight words. These are the words used most often in written English. Teaching children to…

One of the easiest ways to teach your first graders math is by using concrete objects. You can introduce your students to counting by fives with easy activities that group together familiar items.…

Teaching subtraction to children requires patience, a sense of fun, and a passion for mathematics. If you're looking for ways to help a child understand subtraction, you're not alone. Many parents…

To be successful with two-digit addition with regrouping, students must have a good grasp of place value, as well as a good memory for the steps of the addition algorithm. Activities and games that…

Compound word games can be used to introduce or reinforce compound words. Students will enjoy playing the games and won't even realize that they are learning at the same time. Compound word games can…

Subtraction can be difficult to learn for some students. Math is built upon the early concepts so it is important for students to comprehend the earlier skills. Children have an easier time…

High-frequency words are commonly used words that readers need to know by sight. Knowing them helps a reader to be fluent. The reasons why they are called sight words are twofold: they often can not…

Abstract math problems may be difficult to visualize for some students. This becomes especially true when the concept seems particularly abstract; as is the case with dividing one numberal by zero.…

Kindergarten and first-grade word problems teach not only math skills but reinforce word recognition. Early elementary school math story or word problem instruction requires you to teach two subjects…

Children in the third grade are already introduced to the basics of reading, spelling and writing. At the third grade level, teachers start introducing high frequency words and make them memorize the…

Phonics is a technique used to teach reading to preschoolers, kindergartners and early elementary students. Children memorize consonant and vowel sounds then use that knowledge to decode unfamiliar…

Students in intermediate elementary school learn to add and subtract decimal numbers. Boys and girls comprehend best when they are motivated and interested. Parents and teachers offer an incentive to…

Art is an important part of the curriculum for students. Educators find that having a creative outlet for self-expression with no "right" or "wrong" answers provides a way for disadvantaged children…

Subtraction counting-back activities offer children a method for learning the order of numbers. This leads to understanding the concept of subtraction as taking away and finding a smaller number,…

Teaching math to children starts with the concepts of addition and subtraction. These concepts can be difficult for students to grasp. Creativity and imagination in lesson planning can lead to…

During early elementary school, money is a large focus of the math curriculum. If you're about to embark on teaching your students the concept of money, begin by introducing them to coins. Coins are…

Subtraction can be a frustrating task for some students, especially when it comes to dealing with larger numbers. One method of subtraction that offers an alternative process is known as the "counting…

Most students are interested in money, but they are not always interested in money-related worksheets. The concept of hundreds, tens and ones can be taught or reinforced and connected to monetary…

Rhyming games and activities help kindergarten students connect reading and word-association skills. In the kindergarten classroom, a lot of time is devoted to teaching, practicing and playing games…

When subtracting a three-digit number from another three-digit number, it's common to use a process called regrouping -- also known as borrowing. Regrouping involves identifying the placement groups…

The arithmetic mean of multiple groups is the average number of subjects in each group. For example, if the mean number of people in four groups is nine people, this means there is average of nine…

Upon entering the first grade, students should have a firm understanding of numbers; that is, they should be able to count up to 100 in sequential order, recognize numbers and comprehend one-to-one…

Florida, with its long coastlines along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, hosts many institutions dedicated to the state's waterways and marine life. Many of the research centers in Florida…

A reading group is one way that teachers teach reading, especially in elementary school. Students are put together in groups according to their reading ability or skill level, and then those students…

Teaching subtraction is an essential part of elementary math class. Because of the age of students in low-level math courses, teachers may prefer to avoid using the standard textbook approach to…

When teaching a new concept in math, it is important to explain the how and why of finding a solution. The most important way for students to gain true understanding of a math concept, such as…

Instructing kindergarten students in rhyming words is not only enjoyable for the students, it also sets a firm foundation for more advanced concepts in reading comprehension. Using activities is an…

During kindergarten, children not only learn valuable skills and concepts that are essential for academic success, they also begin developing independence and problem solving skills. A way to promote…

Writing regular journal entries is a way to help elementary school students develop language arts skills while sparking creativity. There is a broad range of how journals can be used in the classroom.…

Factors are the components of multiplication problems. Students need to understand how to factor numbers, particularly when dealing with fractions. Factorization can be an extremely abstract concept…

High frequency words are the most commonly seen words on printed material. By effectively learning high frequency words, kindergartners develop a good base for reading comprehension. If your child is…

When it comes to designing today's classroom, the sky's the limit. Creating an environment to enhance learning, reduce behavior problems and motivate children takes thought and planning. The design of…

Most first graders have probably dealt with fractions at some point in their lives. They may have asked to share half of a banana with mom or helped dad cut a pizza or pie into eighths. First graders…

Art lessons for grade 3 should be entertaining, educational, and hold the students' interest. Art brings out a child's creativity and helps teach her how to express herself. In addition, grade 3 art…

Encouraging the love of reading is important to all children but especially for first-graders when they are just learning to read. Creating a summer reading list for your child will involve…

Established in 2002 by Governor Jeb Bush and administered by Florida State University, the Florida Center for Reading Research (FCRR) contributes to the scientific knowledge of reading for the benefit…

Math activities help pupils to learn the fundamentals of subtraction while adding a fun element to the experience. Whether the pupils simply practice subtraction with marbles and pennies or draw out…

Fifth-graders are learning to solve addition and subtraction equations that involve three- to five-digit numbers. Students need a lot of practice to become proficient in solving these problems. The…

A classroom should be a welcoming and positive environment for students. When setting up a classroom, the teacher should consider the subjects to be studied, ages of the students and the major…

Art is an important part of any grade level's curriculum. Children in the eighth grade can benefit from art in particular, because it will encourage them to continue to grow creatively as they reach…

Art projects help students develop their creativity and motor skills. Working with paint, crayons, scissors and other art equipment prepares students for completing more complicated projects in later…

During kindergarten, the traditional curriculum has focused on the ABCs and 123's to prepare kindergartners for reading and writing in first grade. But according to the website "Teaching Kindergarten…

When the weather turns warmer and your kindergartners have energy to burn, make the most of your outdoor time by playing some structured games with your class. The benefits of games reach beyond…

The state of Georgia has academic performance standards outlined for kindergarten up through Grade 8. Second-grade students are expected to understand place value, number relationships, subtraction…

Author Lucy McCormick Calkins writes in her book "The Art of Teaching Writing" that many first graders "convey their meaning more easily through drawing than through print." Until children become more…

Kindergarten children love to play games and hear nursery tales. The appeal of the nursery tale is the rhythm of the rhyming words. To teach kindergarten children why a song or rhyme has rhythm, first…

Kindergarten is a special time in a child's life when the love of learning should be awakened. Children in this age group love to have fun and are eager to learn. Using learning games throughout the…

Second-grade math concentrates on mastering the basic facts and using them as building blocks for elementary multiplication. Learning new math concepts can bring anxiety and frustration to some…

The Reggio Emilia approach to education started in an Italian town after World War II. The founder, Loris Malaguzzi, based this pedagogy on the idea that young children are naturally curious,…

Elementary school is when children learn the basics of life. Math is a key skill that is taught throughout a child's formal education. Learn math activities for teaching the addition of doubles so…

First-grade children are interested in playing games. There are a wide variety of games available to young children that are not only fun, but they are free of cost. Free games can range from games…

Reading moves beyond seeing words on the page, to writing words and finding ways to really enjoy and interact with words. Dividing first grade students into reading groups helps a teacher focus on…

For children to be happy and healthy, they must engage in physical play on a daily basis. Their play should be a combination of structured and unstructured activities, sometimes guided by a teacher…

Once pupils understand the concept of addition, they simply need practice with it. Addition games are an engaging way to provide pupils with these opportunities as well as instill a bit of excitement…

Teachers in parochial schools often have their students write journal entries about creation stories, based on the Bible's account of how the world was created. The teacher often suggests topics for…

Because first-graders are limited in their experiences, both of the world and of written materials, the best activities for first-grade writers are those that are able to play upon skills and…

Playing, whether its indoors or outdoors, is both a healthy and fun exercise for kindergarten students. Indoor games for these young students can be a quick substitute for outdoor recess on rainy,…

Being involved in your child's classroom demonstrates your interest in his social and educational growth. The winter holiday season is a time filled with potential for Christmas activities. Suggesting…

Understanding money is fundamental for functioning in society. Lessons about money can begin at a very early age. Money games and activities for young children typically introduce broad concepts such…

Art classes are an integral part of children's grade-school education. While children's creativity should be encouraged at all ages, they start to come into their own artistically at around grade…

Listening is a skill that does not always come naturally to preschoolers, but is critical for them to develop. Learning how to listen effectively enables preschoolers to better understand the…

Recess time is often the most favored time of day for elementary students. Kindergarten and first grade students play many fun games at recess, including hopscotch, four square, kickball and Red…

Teachers in elementary schools must find interesting and creative ways to help their students memorize subtraction facts. Subtraction is a basic arithmetic lesson that is taught throughout several…

As first graders gain confidence and competence in writing, it's vital to teach them proper punctuation alongside the development of their written expression, in a way that doesn't intimidate them…

Listening centers can help students of any age improve reading skills. Though many educators and parents think only of children in lower elementary grades using a listening center, educators in upper…

First grade may be the earliest time that students are introduced to basic math addition. Using math games can motivate students, starting their first experience with addition on a positive note. The…

First grade students are excited to learn when in a visually stimulating classroom. Creating an environment that will keep students organized, on task and in control is important. This includes…

Rhyming activities help kindergarten students hear the similarities in how words sound. However, identifying rhyming words is sometimes challenging for young children, who have trouble focusing on…

Learning about rhyming words take place in kindergarten and first grade. Rhyming helps teach reading skills as children are able to connect pictures and words together. It also helps build connections…

Celebrate African art by making it in the classroom. First-grade kids can cut and paste and enjoy making crafts from traditional African motifs. Use these projects to celebrate Black History Month or…

Economics is not just about equations and manipulation of numbers. It is important for students to learn economics as a practical application of certain basic laws that govern the various aspects of…

Literacy centers within classrooms are perfect educational resources to promote independent learning. Using monthly calenders for your literacy centers can be an effective way to help students set…

Second-graders look forward to the promise of spring, which can mean a chance to finally play outside during recess. Celebrate the return of spring with your classroom by painting a mural. Murals add…

The value of money is more than just what you can buy with it. It's also a valuable teaching tool. Math and money go hand in hand to help children learn many concepts, from simple counting to…

Activities are excellent for teaching subtraction because they encourage students to apply their knowledge rather than just spit it out. There is a difference between solving a subtraction problem on…

Kindergartners continue childhood education by receiving more formal classroom experience for either part of a day or a full day, preparing them for the first grade. While a child is in kindergarten,…

Mathematics encompasses various skills, including counting, arithmetic, geometry, algebra and calculus. As a student progresses through his academic career, learning mathematics can become stressful…

Addition and subtraction skills can be worked into many activities at all levels of elementary school. Throughout elementary school, students work to master all the facets of addition and subtraction…

Many kindergarten classrooms aim to teach the first 25 words on the Dolch list to their students. The Dolch list is spread across the elementary grades and contains 220 words. Many of these words do…

American consumer debt was $2 trillion in 2003 according to Kim Khan of Money Central. This is an indication of how a misunderstanding of money and economics can create major financial problems. One…

Springtime provides teachers a variety of opportunities for developing different activities for first graders to learn from and enjoy. Focus on things that happen in spring such as sporting activities…

Learning to listen is a skill that educators and parents begin teaching children at a young age. While reminding children that it is polite to listen to others is useful, games are also a good way to…

The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education is used in some of the most highly rated preschools throughout the country. The National Association of the Education of Young Children revised…

Because it's an early prereading skill, rhyming is an important part of the kindergarten curriculum. Creating interactive activities that focus on rhyming can help students learn how to form words and…

Similarities exist between kindergarten and first-grade activities. These similarities allow students to follow through with an effective education plan. That plan uses a continuous core knowledge…

Math skills learned in kindergarten and first grade set the groundwork for a student's ability to succeed in math later in his academic career. Educators can teach math skills to students in…

Traditional flash cards provide basic math practice such as addition or subtraction of two numbers. The teacher or another student holds up the flash cards one-by-one, and the learner must answer the…

Coin math problems are used in lower grades to teach young children the values of coins and how to count them to make currency exchanges. Third and fourth graders often have coin multiplication…

While struggling to learn math, some young students have difficulty seeing numbers as fluidly as they should -- they don't necessarily understand that numbers can be expressed through combinations of…

The listening center is a great resource for any classroom. It gives children the opportunity to hear language and enjoy books that would ordinarily be too challenging to read. Children tend to enjoy…

Spring presents new opportunities to inspire young students to create imaginative works of art. In the primary grades, students are learning how to communicate feelings and opinions about their…

Reading centers are independent learning stations that provide first graders with opportunities to enhance their reading skills while gaining independence and taking an active part in their learning.…

Decorating your kindergarten classroom with eye-catching, informative and interactive decorations is an effective way to get your students interested and involved in their lesson plans. Actively…

First grade health lessons focus on safety topics as they apply to daily life. These include safety in the kitchen, safety around water, fire safety, safety in different kinds of weather and safety…

In first grade, children lay the foundation for their entire elementary school education by learning the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. As a teacher, it's important to draw on proven…

Introducing first grade students to the mathematical concepts of addition and subtraction can be a difficult task. Because these concepts are completely new for many children, it is important to…

Ensuring each student remains safe during everyday activities such as riding bikes, and that each student understands school bus procedures, what to do in case of a fire during school or outside of…

Doubles are taught in math classes in elementary schools, typically during first and second grade. Learning double math facts is an important step for elementary students because math is a cumulative…

Listening centers provide young children the opportunity to listen to stories as they are read aloud even when there are no adults available. Although it is not a substitute for story time when the…

Being the parent of a first-grader poses new challenges as your child confronts his first year of being enrolled in school full-time. He will be learning how to read and write, add and subtract and…

Kindergarten is an important time in a child's life to explore the world around him, learn new skills in school and learn how to interact with other children on an emotional and behavioral level.…

Rhyming activities and games are popular for young children in the kindergarten age group. Simple rhymes are a great way to teach kids. Rhyming teaches phonics and promotes literacy. Rhyming games…

Autism is a biological condition that results in brain abnormalities in both the brain structures and the chemical components. The condition commonly results in difficulty with social interaction and…

Kindergarten and first grade is an exciting time in a child's life. They are full of curiosity and wonder, as this is the age where everything is still fresh and new. At this stage, children benefit…

Planning creative and engaging activities for kindergarten and first grade students will ensure the kids aren't just learning, they're enjoying what they're learning. You can mix lessons on reading,…

By the time children reach kindergarten, they are able to listen and focus for between 15 and 20 minutes, understand complex sentences, and question concepts or ideas they do not understand.…

According to the National Arts Standards for the Visual Arts, children in first grade should have knowledge of different materials and processes, use a variety of media for self-expression, understand…

Children can begin learning the basic concepts of money that will later develop into complex economics as early as kindergarten or first grade. The students will first need to know what exactly money…

For a child to learn how to read he needs to know more than the words on the page. A child must comprehend the meaning of each word and how it relates to the other words in the sentence. Teachers…

First graders are more than capable of giving their undivided attention to the things that interest them. By using dynamic stories and providing plenty of moral support, you can teach even the most…

First grade teachers must help their students learn how to listen, because many young children do not acquire these skills naturally. Listening is important for both study now and interpersonal…

Learning to subtract is a key component of first grade mathematics. By the end of the year, children should be confidently able to complete one and two digit subtractions for sums up to 20. Teaching…

Graduating from high school is an extraordinary achievement. Not only does it pave the way for higher educational goals, but it provides a sense of accomplishment for the student. However,…

Children ages preschool and above have the capability to recognize coins and understand that they hold value as a form of money. Introduce children to coins by playing games and having the children…

Understanding the value of coins is a vital skill. Children must learn about coins and money to become financially responsible adults. Working with money values also reinforces important math skills.…

Forty-two million American adults are unable to read a simple book, according to Education-Portal's website. Since most parents do not want their children to fall victim to this tragedy, reading…

A first grader's learning environment is just as important as what she learns. Thus, first grade classrooms should feature stimulating colors, images, texts and themes. When the classroom is decorated…

How you design your music classroom depends upon available space and financial resources. Designing a classroom to teach students how to play musical instruments, a task much different than teaching…

On Valentine's Day, children in the first grade often have class parties where Valentine Cards are passed out to all of the students. Many children like to include their teacher and give the teacher a…

Preschoolers can learn a lot about addition and subtraction from their daily lives. Young children generally enjoy counting and once they have mastered basic numbers from one to 20, they have the…

First grade is a crucial time in the development of literacy skills. Most children in the first grade are comfortable with single syllable words, understand the structure of language and can recognize…

Poorly developed classroom management can lead to lack of progress or challenging behavior from students. On the other hand, a well-designed classroom management system can improve the quality of your…

First grade students, having already grasped basic writing skills, can write thank you notes to both expand those skills and learn about etiquette. Don't worry about the letter's neatness, its length…

Subtracting two- and three-digit numbers can be difficult for young learners because it might seem counterintuitive, particularly if the student has already learned addition of two- and three-digit…

A math double is the process of adding a number to itself. A math double is a simple addition process that many children learn in the first grade. Teaching these doubles to children helps them perform…

Teaching and managing multiple reading groups can seem overwhelming to teachers implementing a structured reading program for the first time. Teachers must make several important decisions regarding…

In many schools around the country teachers are beginning to emphasize early reading skills starting in kindergarten. Creating a listening center in the classroom is a useful way to help young…

Teaching a Thanksgiving unit to first-graders will give you the opportunity to incorporate fun activities and history-rich content during an exciting time of year. The resources available for this…

Coming up with new and educational games and activities for a first grade class can be a challenge. One of the most significant challenges is in simply keeping their attention throughout the duration…

Artistic inspiration is abundant in the springtime. As the snow melts and life seems to emerge once again, symbols of spring appear. Spring art projects often center around the beauty of nature. In…

Making a graphic representation of their family trees can help even young children to learn about their own lineage.

Teachers who require their first-grade students to complete regular journal entries sometimes struggle in creating topics that students can write about. For first-grade students, simply allowing them…

Fostering a first-grader's self-confidence in his writing is an important step in making him a clear communicator as he grows up. During first grade, a child becomes acquainted with the written word…

First grade students build upon reading fluency gained in kindergarten by using phonics lessons to recognize more sounds. Consistent review helps first graders master key phonics concepts. As your…

The electronic spreadsheet originated in the halls of Harvard Business School around 1978. Student Dan Bricklin fathered the idea that later became VisiCalc, an application many consider to be the…

Microsoft Office provides effective tools for teachers. Programs such as PowerPoint, Word, Excel and OneNote help teachers increase productivity and create appealing lessons and activities to engage…

First-grade readers should begin with sight words, or high-frequency words that come from one of the many available resources. Use picture clues with simple sentences to teach reading to first graders…

Multi-level reading groups at the first-grade level may be taught by pairing a higher-level and lower-level student. The higher-level student can both model good reading skills and help with harder…

Thanksgiving is an annual holiday that is meant to instill gratitude and thankfulness in its observers. One of the traditional symbols of Thanksgiving is a turkey, which many people prepare for the…

First-graders are learning many new things in their English lessons. While in kindergarten they may have been exposed to composition through Writer's Workshop or a Morning Message. In first grade,…

Surveys of new teachers reveal that they frequently experience concerns about their ability to manage a classroom. Furthermore, very young students often lack experience with classroom rules and…

Plaster of Paris is the most recognized name for casting plaster, but the two terms are used interchangeably. There are several different types of plaster that can be used for a variety of casting.

Becoming an educator can be a very rewarding career. When an individual has genuine interest in working with students and a passion for a particular subject area, teaching can prove to be a wonderful…

For many children, math can be a tricky subject. Teachers can help students succeed in what might be their weakest area by trying different activities to make math fun and relevant to their lives.…

During first grade, children begin mastering mathematical skills and concepts, including fractions. From following recipes to purchasing milk or ice cream, fractions are a part of everyday life. When…

First grade is a new world for youngsters filled with reading, writing, and math. Projects are an effective way to give students opportunities to be creative while expressing what they have learned.…

Games can be a useful tool in learning. Not only do games keep things engaging and interesting but they also reinforce important concepts. Games can be played in all subject areas. Some are better for…

Students do best in an environment conducive to learning. When taught in a well-organized, material-rich classroom, kindergarten and first-grade students are better able to acquire and retain…

A bean seed grows quickly into a bean plant. It is one of the fastest growing plants. After the bean is planted in the soil, it takes only a week for it to germinate. The bean plant is fully grown in…

Many schools emphasize the importance of using essential questions, even at the youngest grade levels. Essential questions require higher-level thinking and motivate students to search for answers to…

Elementary students love science. Teaching the parts of the flower can be fun and educational at the same time. Whenever teaching any new concept, you should always begin by finding out what the…

One good way to teach first grade students about plant life is through planning a unit on planting seeds. This activity allows teachers to guide learning related to the process of plant life by…

Each year in November, when Thanksgiving rolls around, first grade teachers plan a variety of art projects to help teach their students about the history of Thanksgiving. Pilgrims, turkeys and pumpkin…

A SMART Board is an interactive teaching tool that allows students to view the lesson created on a computer program. The board itself is a dry-erase white board that is connected to a projector. The…

While dogs and children are often inseparable, children must know how to handle and play properly with dogs. Otherwise, they could get hurt. Even an otherwise friendly and harmless dog could bite a…

Classroom management is an important part of education that is difficult to master. With children in first grade, it can be particularly difficult, as in most schools this is their first true year of…

Listening centers provide first-grade students the chance to improve reading skills. The core of a first grade listening center is a book on tape. By listening to the tape and following along in the…

In the first grade, students learn about their families and all of the people that make up a family. Creating a family tree is a good way to teach this concept because it gives a visual representation…

For the most part, first graders dislike sitting still for long periods of time. This means that their attention can easily waver in the classroom if you don't get them up and moving around…

When November rolls around, ignite your classroom activities with a Thanksgiving theme. With the right activities and attitude, your first graders might not even notice that they are still learning.…

Art projects can give teachers the opportunity to tie their other classroom subjects to the children's creativity and give them a hands-on learning experience. Some art projects require replicating or…

First grade classrooms are exciting places for both teachers and students, but they do require a great deal of classroom management. Harry Wong, author of the "The First Days of School," says that…

Take a break from worksheets and quizzes and challenge students' knowledge in a different way. When hitting the books starts to feel old or kids need to get their wiggles out, play these games to…

There's no question that first graders get excited about anything in which they get to be the center of attention. Putting together a classroom book that contains their photos, artwork and short…

Students and parents always want to show appreciation for teachers, so teachers receive a lot of gifts. Unfortunately, when you give ornaments, knickknacks or lotions, they often end up cluttering the…

First graders have had a taste of formal education in kindergarten but are now standing on the threshold of more intense learning that will continue to become more challenging as the years go by. This…

Some children start school knowing as few as 500 words. By the time they reach adulthood, they should have a vocabulary of at least a hundred times that: 50,000 words. Vocabulary is built at every…

First graders usually begin the school year knowing how to read at a basic level. Most have acquired phonological awareness and can sound out words and read simple books. As a first grade teacher, you…

The year that students are in the first grade is a very important timeframe for reading instruction, according to the Learning First Alliance. Students in the first grade tend to indentify themselves…

In our technology-driven world, first grade is not too young for a child to begin to establish computer skills. First-graders can learn from educational games and programs. In addition, the Internet…

First graders are curious, inquisitive and learn a lot by exploring their environment. Because of these reasons, the ideal first grade classroom should be colorful, engaging and provide opportunities…

Creating a calendar for first-grade literacy isn't difficult and can be rewarding for your child. The goal of a literacy calendar is to help organize fun and interactive learning activities. Literacy…

It is essential that a first grade teacher have plenty of materials on hand for daily use in the classroom. First graders are active learners who like to explore concepts through hands on activities…

Effective classroom management is the key to keeping your classroom under control. The change from kindergarten to first grade is a big one because teachers and parents alike expect kids to start…

First grade is a very important year for students learning basic math skills. According to several websites including Time For Learning, first grade is when children should learn adding and…

Games can be used to help first-graders review and practice reading skills. They encourage cooperation, rule following and taking turns among students while providing a high-interest way for early…

First graders love Valentine's Day. They haven't developed any romantic or popularity angst yet, and class parties are still a novelty. While making and distributing valentines are fun for first…

From the smallest hummingbird to the big whooping crane, birds are a fascinating field of study for first graders. Hands-on art projects not only allow the students to be creative, they also encourage…

First grade students have a big year ahead learning to read, write, and do math. It's also a year when good organizational habits, established early, will become lifelong. Organization helps the…

The number of schools in the United States is growing. The first schools were started in the 1600s and there were only a handful at that time. Currently, there are close to 100,000 schools in the…

Homeschooling a kindergartner involves teaching them numbers, letters, shapes, colors and beginning writing and reading. Educate a kindergartner at home to prepare them for the first grade with advice…

First graders are not usually interested in especially cute or complicated games. They like games they can play independently--that make them feel smart and capable. That's why adapting traditional…

Each spring in California, students take a test as part of California's standardized testing and reporting (STAR) program. These STAR tests measure a child's understanding of the material covered in…

First grade is a pivotal time. It is the first time kids are really going to school for a learning process. However, it does need to be oriented to a young age so that they can take in the information…

It is an art to run several reading groups at once with 25 squiggly first-graders. Setting up expectations gradually and being consistent will help your reading block run smoothly. Each classroom is…

A child’s desire to learn is one of the best tools for teaching. Most children strongly want to become readers and first graders are set up to learn reading by kindergarten language activities.…

Have you decided to home school your child? Learn all about reading lesson books for home schooling first graders in this free education video.

Have you decided to home school your child? Learn all about using reading word cards for home schooling first graders in this free education video.

Is your first grader ready for advanced fractions in math? Learn how to use food to teach advanced fractions with expert home schooling tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid how to add and subtract money with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid fractions with food with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Learn how to find and use math textbooks with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid two digit addition with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid the subtraction tables with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid the addition tables with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid two digit subtraction with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid how to count dimes, nickels and pennies with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid how to count dimes and nickels with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid how to count change with expert tips in this free education video.

Want to help your first grade child with their math lessons? Teach your kid how to count nickels and pennies with expert tips in this free education video.

You want to be at the top of your class, but don't know where to start. Great students know how to get ahead in class, and you can, too. Here are a few great tips on how to become an excellent…

If you are home schooling your first grader or just helping them with their homework, there is a simple way to teach your child how to count dimes and nickels. Most children learn the best when they…

Teaching addition tables to First Grade Math students can be both challenging, and rewarding from the educators stand point. Children in this age group have short attention spans, and need a lot of…

Setting up a "store" in your classroom is an excellent way to help your first grade students understand the concept of money. Students will get lots of hands on practice with counting, adding and…

Counting change is one of the key concepts to be taught during first grade math. By the end of the year, students should be able to count the change given to them in any variation. By carefully and…

Math can be one of the most frustrating subjects for students to master. However, it doesn't have to be. Building good number sense from the start helps make math easy and even fun for students to…

Two-digit subtraction is the act of taking away or subtracting a double digit number from another double digit number. For example, the problem "32-12= ??" will be used to illustrate the process of…

A great way to teach first graders to count is to have them count money. You would be amazed how quickly children will learn how to count when you are using money such as pennies, nickels and dimes.…

There are many skills that are necessary for a child to learn in first grade. One of those skills is two digit addition without regrouping. Some children will pick this concept up right away, while…

Every child is interested in money. The fun part about money is learning how to count it. Once the child knows primarily how to count in "5s," 10s," and so forth, counting will come easily to them.…

Explaining something clearly can be a challenge to anyone. You need to think about what you want to say and you need to explain it differently depending on whom you are explaining it to. Explaining a…

The decision to homeschool your child brings with it a heavy set of responsibilities and multiple roles: advocate, curriculum designer, teacher and so on. Homeschooling is a major commitment and an…