District Of Columbia 1st Grade Curriculum

As a classroom educator, you understand the critical role that a well-rounded and engaging curriculum plays in shaping the foundational skills of your first-grade students. Our curriculum is designed to align with the District of Columbia academic standards in English, ensuring that all subjects support and enhance your students' learning experiences comprehensively.

English Language Arts

Our English Language Arts (ELA) curriculum prioritizes reading, writing, grammar, and speaking/listening skills.

• Reading: Students will delve into phonics to master letter sounds and blends, developing key reading comprehension skills that include understanding characters, setting, and plot. Vocabulary development will be emphasized, ensuring students expand their word bank and reading fluency.

• Writing: First graders will learn to construct complete sentences and explore narrative, descriptive, and opinion writing. This approach encourages creativity and personal expression while developing their writing mechanics.

• Grammar: Students will be introduced to essential parts of speech and learn to identify sentence types, fostering a strong grammatical foundation that supports their writing.

• Speaking and Listening: We prioritize active participation in discussions, enhancing both listening skills and the confidence to express ideas clearly.

Mathematics

Our math curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach to foster number sense, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills.

• Number Sense and Geometry: Students will engage with numbers up to 100, practice addition and subtraction within 20, and learn to identify and describe 2D and 3D shapes.

• Measurement and Data: We introduce basic concepts of measurement, including length and time, while encouraging students to collect and interpret data through graphs.

• Operations and Algebraic Thinking: Students will solve real-world problems through word problems, building a foundation for more advanced math concepts.

Science

Our science curriculum sparks curiosity and fosters inquiry through exploration of physical science, life science, earth and space science, and engineering.

• Physical Science: Students will explore the properties of matter, forces, and motion, encouraging them to engage in hands-on experiments.

• Life Science: Students will learn about the natural world, focusing on living organisms, their needs, and ecosystems.

• Earth and Space Science: Students will understand the Earth's resources and weather patterns, stimulating interest in environmental stewardship.

• Engineering and Technology: Encouraging innovation, students will design and build simple structures, developing early engineering skills.

Social Studies

Our social studies curriculum cultivates awareness and appreciation of civic responsibility, history, geography, and economics.

• Civics and Government: Students will learn about their rights, responsibilities, and the basic functions of government, fostering a sense of citizenship.

• History: Through timelines and key figures’ contributions, students explore the past and its relevance, encouraging critical thinking and perspective-taking.

• Geography: Students will learn about maps, continents, and landmarks, enhancing spatial awareness and global understanding.

• Economics: Understanding needs, wants, and resource management introduces students to basic economic principles.

Arts

Our comprehensive arts program supports creativity and self-expression across visual arts, music, dance, and theater.

• Visual Arts: Students will experiment with various mediums, developing their artistic skills while exploring color theory and composition.

• Music: Introducing rhythm, melody, and harmony through singing and instrument play cultivates a love for music.

• Dance: Movement and expression will help students develop coordination and confidence.

• Theater: Students will engage in acting and improvisation, enhancing communication skills and teamwork.

Physical Education

Our physical education curriculum promotes the importance of fitness and well-being.

• Movement Skills: Students will develop essential motor skills through fun activities and games.

• Health and Wellness: Education on hygiene and nutrition will empower students to make healthy lifestyle choices.

• Safety and Rules: Instilling safety awareness during play will teach students the importance of responsible behavior.

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