WELCOME TO THE
GRADE 1 CURRICULUM PAGE!

Below you will find a brief description overview of the Mars Area School District’s Grade 1 Curriculum. To explore specific content areas and view unit descriptions alongside of the standards, simply click on the specific content name located to the right.

GRADE 1 CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

English Language Arts (ELA)

Grade 1 English Language Arts (ELA) encompasses reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will use a variety of strategies to decode unknown words. They will read grade level texts accurately and fluently with appropriate speed, rhythm, flow, and expression. Students will learn to identify fiction/non-fiction text, monitor comprehension, retell, and summarize using story elements with correct sequence. In addition, they will develop a grade appropriate sight word vocabulary and demonstrate an understanding of listening vocabulary. Students will be given opportunities to use speaking and listening skills with responses and discussions that are focused on specific topics. Students will learn distinguishing features of sentence structure and proper penmanship. Additionally, students will practice grade appropriate and grammar skills that will be applied to their daily writing.

Mathematics

Students in Grade 1 Math will be given numerous opportunities to explore mathematical concepts through concrete math manipulatives, as well as, through paper and pencil assignments. Students’ exploration will include using operations, algebraic thinking, number and operations in base ten, measurement, data, and geometry. The students will learn mathematical concepts and problem solving skills through whole group class activities, small group games, and individual work. 

Science

Students in Grade 1 Science will take on the role of scientists as they participate in hands-on inquiry-based investigations that are designed to introduce concepts in earth science. Students will develop their scientific skills through formulating hypotheses then observing and comparing. Journaling and scientific drawings will depict student observations, understanding, and overall conclusions drawn from experiments. This course consists of two (2) modules, Air & Weather and Organisms. In both modules, the students acquire related vocabulary and communicate their observations through drawing and writing. Additionally, to support the concept that Engineering is Elementary (EiE), a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) unit, Catching the Wind: Designing Windmills, will be taught in conjunction with the Asset Science module Air and Weather. This EiE unit aims to increase student engagement in engineering with an emphasis on critical thinking skills and persistence in problem solving.

Social Studies

In Grade 1 Social Studies, students will recognize and identify rules and roles within a family and community, as well as the needs and wants of those groups. They will learn about important events, figures, and symbols in American history. Students will use cardinal directions on a compass rose and symbols to navigate and interpret information on a map.

Art

Grade 1 Art is designed to provide students with rich, exciting, and meaningful learning experiences to inspire each child’s individual creativity. First grade students will explore a variety of artistic media in a way that helps them understand that art is literally everywhere in their lives and in the world. Students will become acquainted with famous artists and their various works. Our first grade artists will explore basic foundational art skills and processes. This exploration will support the creation of their own artwork as students are exposed to the styles of numerous featured artists.

Health

Students in Grade 1 Health will learn the concept of what it means to be healthy and safe. They will explore the fundamental aspects of their bodies and what makes them work. Additionally, they will discover ways in which they may support their bodies for overall health and wellness. These young learners will discuss what it means to make good choices and the effects their choices have on lifelong health. Students will identify the importance of physical activity/play and its connection to health. Students will learn the concept of “my plate” portions and the role food has on keeping individuals healthy. Additionally, students will study various safety units including fire, playground, and bus safety. 

Library

Students demonstrate a deeper understanding of the functions and procedures of the library setting. Additionally, students will further their understanding of the characteristics found in literature such as fiction, non-fiction, poetry, etc. Students independently select library materials using skills practiced throughout the year and gain a deeper appreciation of authors, illustrators, and literary awards. Basic research is done to help students understand the importance of gathering information on a topic or subject. Technology skills and digital citizenship concepts are integrated throughout the year in preparation for more safe independent learning at the elementary level.

Music

In Grade 1 Music, students have the opportunity to develop an early interest and appreciation for music. The curriculum explores very basic concepts of music and sound, such as, loud and soft, fast and slow, high and low, long and short, steady beat, and rhythm patterns. Students will learn through singing, listening, dancing, moving, playing games, and by playing handheld percussion instruments.

Physical Education

The Grade 1 Physical Education class is designed to build the foundation and basis of many skills students will use throughout their lives. The first graders will learn how to control their bodies and move safely when participating in various sport related activities. There will be a focus on body movement and locomotor skills. They will gain a better understanding of class rules and how to follow directions. Students are expected to report to each class wearing appropriate clothing and athletic shoes. Students are graded on active participation and proper attire.

STEAM (K-6)

Mars Area School District's Elementary (K-6) STEAM Program is an authentic and engaging learning environment that challenges students to problem-solve through innovation, imagination, and creation. Students learn through a progression of skills aligned to the K-6 curriculum through the collaborative use of multi-media tools, computational thinking, and tinkering. STEAM instruction focuses on an integrated blend of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Students work collaboratively on projects that extend learning beyond curriculum content by tinkering/designing with tools and various materials as well as through coding and programming. STEAM classrooms at each elementary building are designed to promote teamwork and innovation in a high-tech maker space. Accessibility to iPads, robotics, building materials and resources enable students to hit their peak of curiosity and creativity.