In language arts, first graders are taught the fundamentals of literacy, including reading sentences, writing very simple statements, and mastery of the alphabet, building on what they have learned in kindergarten or other forms of pre-school.
Expectations for first grade have changed due to Common Core Standards.
Most states use the Common Core Standards, so most schools across the country use similar curricula.
First graders are expected to read and comprehend stories ranging in length and difficulty.
Students are also typically introduced to the concept of social studies, with an emphasis on establishing ideas of history or civics in either a personal or larger sense.
Some states focus on the basics of US history and patriotism, with a focus on the Founding Fathers and the time period surrounding the American Revolution; other states require social studies focus on family relationships in first grade, leaving community, state, and national studies to higher grades.
First-grade science classes usually involve the discussion of matter, plant and animal science, earth materials, and balance and motion, along with the human body and basic health and nutrition.
Students are encouraged to observe the world around them and begin asking questions about things they notice.