First Grade
Where independence blossoms and a love of learning takes root.
What Makes First Grade Special
First grade is the year when a child begins to realize and explore their independence. They thrive on the opportunity to make choices, be a leader, and have responsibilities. We guide them in this period of development through a growth mindset, providing optimal opportunities for the unfolding of the whole child, including social, emotional, and academic development using an interdisciplinary and inquiry-based program.
First Grade Curriculum
A comprehensive, hands-on approach to learning that sparks curiosity and builds confidence.
Language Arts
Students develop a love for reading through classroom books, read-alouds, guided reading, and independent reading. They practice phonics, comprehension, writing, journaling, poetry, and oral presentations. Programs include Fountas & Pinnell, Fundations® for spelling and phonics, and Heggerty for daily phonemic awareness.
Math
Using Math in Focus, students explore numbers, addition, subtraction, telling time, measurement, data, and shapes. Hands-on activities, technology, and real-life experiences make learning engaging, with extra support or challenges as needed.
Social Studies
Students learn about themselves, their families, communities, and the world. Topics include animals (with a Philadelphia Zoo field trip), cultural diversity, environmental care, holidays around the world, endangered species, and medieval life experiences with sixth graders.
"The teachers see every child as an individual. Our son went from hesitant to confident in just a few months: he's a completely different kid."
First Grade Parent
First Grade Traditions & Experiences
Memorable moments that make first grade at Meadowbrook truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What reading program does First Grade use?
We use Fountas & Pinnell for guided reading and writing, Fundations® for spelling and phonics, and Heggerty for daily phonemic awareness. This comprehensive approach ensures every child builds strong literacy foundations.
How does First Grade prepare students for Second Grade?
By the end of First Grade, students are confident, independent readers and writers with strong math foundations. The inquiry-based approach builds critical thinking skills that carry through every subsequent grade.
What specials do First Graders attend?
First graders attend all specials including Science, World Language (Spanish), Art, Library, Music, Technology, and Physical Education, taught by dedicated specialist teachers.
See First Grade in Action
Schedule a tour to visit our classrooms and meet our teachers during the school day.