Key Math Domains & Topics (Common Core Aligned)
| Domain | Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| Operations & Algebraic Thinking (OA) | – Solve addition and subtraction problems within 20 using objects, drawings, or equations |
Understand the relationship between addition and subtraction
Use strategies (counting on, making ten, decomposing numbers) |
| Number & Operations in Base Ten (NBT) | – Understand place value: ones and tensAdd and subtract within 100 using models and strategies
Understand the meaning of the equal sign |
| Measurement & Data (MD) | – Measure lengths using unitsTell and write time to the hour and half-hour
Organize, represent, and interpret data |
| Geometry (G) | – Recognize and name shapesCompose two-dimensional or three-dimensional shapes
Understand attributes like sides, corners, and symmetry |
| Publisher | Curriculum | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Eureka Math (Great Minds) | Grade 1 Module 1–6 | Strong conceptual foundation; includes fluency drills, application problems, and story-based problems |
| Illustrative Mathematics | Grade 1 Units | Emphasizes reasoning, talking about math; problem-based learning |
| Investigations (TERC) | Grade 1 Units | Visual learning and discovery-based instruction; strong in hands-on learning |
| McGraw-Hill My Math / Reveal Math | Traditional and CCSS-based | Easier transition for students/parents new to U.S. system; includes practice and reteaching tools |
Most of these come with:
Teacher editions
Student workbooks
Homework sheets
Online platforms for digital use
Assessment resources
Internal classroom assessments:
Weekly or module-based quizzes
Math journals, exit tickets, performance tasks
Standardized Testing:
Starts officially from Grade 3 in most states
Some districts give benchmark assessments (3x per year) to track growth even in Grade 1
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Ten Frames | Understand base-ten and number sense |
| Linking Cubes / Snap Cubes | Addition/subtraction, composing numbers |
| Number Lines | Addition, subtraction, skip counting |
| Clock models | Learning to tell time |
| Pattern Blocks / Shapes | Geometry, understanding symmetry, composing shapes |
| Digital Tools | Khan Academy Kids, ST Math, Zearn, Freckle, i-Ready |
| State | Notes |
|---|---|
| California | Uses Common Core with slight modifications; adopted Eureka and Ready Math in many areas |
| Texas | Uses TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills); similar, but ordered differently |
| Florida | Uses B.E.S.T. standards — still covers similar topics but with more fluency goals |
| New York | Uses EngageNY (based on Eureka Math) extensively |
| Massachusetts | MCAS-aligned standards; similar to CCSS but includes some unique performance expectations |
School Year: August/September to May/June
Math is taught daily, ~45–60 mins per day
Curriculum pacing guides break the year into:
Modules (e.g. Eureka Math has 6 per year)
Quarterly units
Some schools use spiral review weekly
Lab Work and Projects
- Microscopy: observing cells and tissues
- Enzyme labs (e.g., catalase and hydrogen peroxide)
- DNA extraction (strawberry or cheek cell)
- Photosynthesis experiments (light and plant growth)
- Genetic crosses using simulations or live organisms (e.g., fruit flies)
- Ecology field study or virtual simulation
