First Grade Elements of Daily Math

First grade students need daily practice writing number sentences.

A first grade classroom should include several elements of daily math. These elements need constant reinforcement that can be provided in a daily routine. First graders should practice calendar skills each day. It is also important to include time and money as these skills are difficult for many first graders. Daily practice in addition, subtraction and place value help students get a better grasp on numbers and operations.

Calendar Activities

Calendar activities are a necessary component of first grade math. Calendar skills include recognizing how many days are in a week or month. A fun way to teach these skills are through daily calendar songs. Students also need to practice counting the number of days between certain events. For example, if today is March 24th, what day will it be a week from today? You can work on making sure students can count how many Mondays are in a month or how many weeks are in a month.

Time and Money

Telling time and counting money are difficult for first graders. Daily practice with these skills is essential for success. A clock can be displayed by the calendar for extra practice. Give students the time that something is happening during the day and have them match it on the clock. A money chart can also be displayed. It is helpful to have signs of each of the coins and their values on the bulletin board as well. Students can practice adding a different combination of coins each day. There are also several money songs that help teach the coins and their values.

Addition and Subtraction Facts

Addition and subtraction facts need to be practiced every day. One way to do that is to give the students a number and have them create a number sentence that equals that number. You could also do a timed math test where students have a certain amount of time to complete a set of addition and subtraction problems. This will help the students memorize their math facts. A daily word problem should also be included. Word problems are difficult for young students, and a daily problem will provide them with needed extra practice.

Place Value

Number skills are an important part of first grade. As part of daily math, you can have your students count the number of days in school with straws. Students practice using ones, tens and hundreds with the straws. A secret number of the day is fun for students. Give them clues about the number and see if they can guess it. It is also crucial for students to practice counting by twos, fives and tens as this is an important skill for them to build on in second grade.

References

• F is for First Grade: Math Daily Routines
• Mrs. McDowell: Morning Meeting and Calendar Activities