1. Operations: Addition & Subtraction (Facts to 20) The most significant shift in 1st Grade is moving from "counting objects" to "mental math." Fact Fluency: Memorizing simple sums (like $5+5$ or $10+2$) to solve problems quickly. - The Relationship Between +/-: Understanding that if $8 + 2 = 10$, then $10 - 2 = 8$. - Missing Addends: Solving for an unknown, such as $5 + \Box = 12$. - Word Problems: Solving "story problems" that involve adding to, taking from, or comparing groups. 2. Number Sense: Place Value (Tens and Ones) This is the "anchor" of 1st Grade math. Children learn that the position of a digit changes its value. Getty Images Bundling Tens: Learning that ten "ones" can be bundled into one "ten." - The Numbers 11–120: Extending counting well beyond the Pre-K limit of 20. - Comparing Numbers: Using symbols to show relationships: $>$ (Greater Than) , $<$ (Less Than) , and $=$ (Equal To) . 3. Geometry: Defining Attributes & Fractions In Pre-K, kids find shapes; in 1st Grade, they analyze them. Defining Attributes: Understanding that a triangle is a triangle because it has 3 sides and 3 corners, regardless of its color or size. - Composing Shapes: Putting two triangles together to make a square or a rhombus. - Intro to Fractions: Dividing circles and rectangles into halves and fourths (quarters). 4. Measurement, Data, & Time Children begin using tools to organize their world. Ordering Length: Lining up three objects from shortest to longest. - Telling Time: Learning to read an analog clock to the hour and half-hour (e.g., 4:00 and 4:30). - Data Analysis: Using tally marks and bar graphs to answer questions like "How many more students like apples than bananas?" 5. Money Coin Values: Identifying and knowing the value of pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters. - Simple Totals: Counting a small collection of coins (usually up to $1.00$).