First grade math is the beginning of the journey to math mastery. So much is learned in first grade math. Students learn how study math and that in and of itself is one of the most important lessons they can learn in math. They learn how to think and find answers. It's a wonderful grade for eager math learners and the diversity of topics never ceases to excite students.
Key Points
- Your child will learn how to count to 100, how to tell basic time, and about the different coins, among other things.
- Make sure your child has a calm and quiet environment in which to do their homework.
- If your child is struggling with math, help them with their homework. If this doesn't help, consider getting them a tutor.
What Will My Child Learn in First Grade Math?
In the first grade, students will learn how to add numbers from one to ten in their head. They will learn how to count to 100 and how to identify numbers from 1 to 100 by sight. They will learn how to recognize different coins, and will use pennies for simple addition and subtraction. They will also be introduced to the concept of 1/2 and how to use it in every day life.
Student will also learn how to use less than, more than, and as same as. They will learn how to use other comparisons words as well. They will learn how to tell basic time. They will learn about temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. Comparing and classifying objects is another skill they will learn. Furthermore, first grade math will teach them how to measure with everyday items like their pencil, their fingers, or even a sheet of paper.
They will learn how to describe and identify simple shapes, as well as describe their similarities and differences. Symmetry is another topic that your child's teacher will cover.
First grade math students will learn how to identity and talk about patterns that they might find in numbers, shapes, colors and even words. They will look for the patterns in counting charts from 1 to 100. They will even learn how to talk about these patterns. Your teacher may have them create simple surveys that can be answered with yes or no.
How to Help Your Child With First Grade Math
Math comes naturally for some students, but not very naturally for others. If your child is struggling through first grade math, follow these tips to give them a much-needed hand.
Help them through their homework. If your child has been doing their homework on their own and struggling, give them a hand. While it's important to let a child try their homework on their own, if it becomes clear to you that they're struggling it's time to give them a hand. Don't do the problems for them. Guide them through each problem, and help them when they get stuck.
Calm their nerves. If your child is struggling a lot with first grade math, they're going to become anxious and stressed about it. These emotions can negatively impact their performance in math even more. If you notice your child becoming stressed and nervous about math, try to help calm them. Assure them that you're there to help them, and that you know they're doing their best.
Consider whether they're doing their homework at a good time. Sometimes, struggling with math can be boiled down to doing their homework at the wrong time of day. If your child is doing fine in school, but struggling with their homework, consider the time of day that they're doing it. If your child is doing their homework late at night, they may be too tired to focus properly. If they're doing it right after school, they may be burnt out from the school day.
Make sure your child has a quiet environment for homework. If your child is surrounded by noise and distractions when they're trying to do their homework, it can impact their performance. Provide your child with a quiet, calm space to do their homework. Make sure any distractions are removed from their environment while they're doing homework. Take away any computer access if they have it while they're doing their homework, unless they need it for homework. If they do, supervise them to ensure they're only using it for their homework.
Get them a tutor. If your child is still struggling in math after following the above tips, it's time to get them a tutor. Help your child understand that a tutor is nothing to be ashamed of; this person is here to help them succeed in life. You can opt for an in-person tutor, or an online tutor. What you pick depends on your circumstances, your child's preferences, and cost. Take your time and pick a tutor that is a good fit for your child. If you aren't sure where to start looking, ask your child's teacher for recommendations.