Best first grade math curriculum

Top Homeschool Math Curriculum & Programs (2023 and Beyond)

So, you’ve made the big step and are choosing to homeschool your child. Congratulations! 🎉

You’re probably familiar with the many benefits of homeschooling — including customized learning, a targeted homeschool curriculum and maybe even higher test scores.

But how can you best help your child achieve these benefits, especially with a hard subject like math?

One solution for homeschooling parents is to use math programs. Not only do math programs take the pressure off you as a homeschool educator, but they also keep your child engaged and eager to learn!

Find out more about the best homeschool math programs and how to choose the right one for your child below!

Math programs are resources and plans you can use to deliver your child’s math curriculum. They set up your child’s math lessons, including learning goals, activities and assessments.   

Math programs are a great alternative to traditional math textbooks because they offer a more complete package to teach your child math at home. Many include extra resources like DVDs and manipulatives to use in your lessons.

Another perk of math programs is that they’re designed for a wide range of grades, abilities and even learning styles. Math programs have features like:

• Video lessons – Ideal for visual and auditory learners!
• Math games – Perfect for engaging all types of learners!
• Manipulatives – Great for kinesthetic learners who learn by doing!

When choosing a math program, pair it with another enrichment tool to diversify your child's learning. Prodigy Math Game is a great standalone program or enrichment tool for any homeschool math program. 

Jump ahead and find out why!

The 10 best homeschool math curriculum programs

Here are 10 leading math curriculum programs suitable for homeschooling:

1. Math-U-See

Grades: K-12 (equivalent in levels)

Benefits:

• Aligned with Common Core standards.
• Offers instructional DVDs, video lessons and placement tests.
• Blocks and manipulatives are great for visual and kinesthetic learners.
• Skills-based approach helps you customize your child’s math learning.

Good for: A child who learns by doing and enjoys conquering challenges to the full.

Price range: Expect to spend $140-$180 for each level.

Math-U-See takes a multisensory approach to learning math with manipulatives called Blocks. Educators use these blocks to help students visualize a math problem. They then ask them to manipulate the blocks to find the solution. 

Math-U-See also organizes learning math by level rather than by grade. Students start at Primer level and make their way to Zeta before going on to advanced levels that include algebra and calculus.  

Unlike traditional schooling, Math-U-See uses a mastery approach to learning math. This means the teacher attempts to maximize a student’s understanding of a topic before moving onto a different one. 

Grades: K-12

Benefits:

• Manipulatives for elementary levels.
• Aligned with Common Core standards.
• Placement tests are available for new homeschoolers.
• Instructional DVDs and video lessons to help students.

Good for: A child who may need extra math support and responds well to drills.

Price range: Expect to spend around $100 per grade level.

Saxon Math is another all-inclusive math program for homeschoolers. The curriculum uses drills to teach math skills and concepts, which may help students who learn through repetition. 

The first three grade levels are delivered through workbooks and manipulatives, before introducing teaching textbooks and CDs at level four. These grade levels are blended, meaning Level 5/4 is geared to 4th graders as well as 5th graders who need extra support. 

Like many other math programs, Saxon Math uses the spiral method. This method introduces the student to a math topic, teaching them an aspect of it, and revisits it over time while bringing in new knowledge. 

Grades: K-12

Benefits:

• Short yet productive lesson format.
• Spiral approach for a balanced curriculum coverage.
• Colorful workbooks suited to visual and independent learners.
• Fast-paced curriculum ideal for students who want to be challenged.

Good for: A child who can comfortably work on their own and thrives from a challenge.

Price range: Expect to spend around $90 per math set.

Horizons Math uses colorful workbooks to help teach children math. Each lesson is short and designed to keep a student focused without boring them. 

The math program is part of a self-described Christian homeschool curriculum, useful if you’re choosing to homeschool for religious reasons. 

Horizons Math is not aligned with Common Core Math Standards and often goes above the expected level for the child’s grade. This math program also uses the spiral method – ideal for homeschool educators wanting to gradually introduce their child to a topic. 

Although a Teacher’s Guide is included, Horizons Math has no script. So if you’re confident in teaching math and want to lead the lesson independently, you may prefer a scriptless math program like this. 

Grades: 1-12

Benefits:

• Affordable approach for students and educators.
• Suitable for independent learners who can read alone.
• Entertaining story format, ideal for creative and visual learners.
• Teaches conceptual understanding rather than memorization of math skills.

Good for: A child who prefers learning through stories and enjoys independent reading of word problems.

Price range: Expect to spend $20 per book.

Life of Fred is a very unique math program. Written by Dr. Stanley Schmidt, a retired math teacher, this program presents math lessons through a story format. Rather than focusing on set lessons, learners make their way through math topics as they read through the hardcover books. 

The stories follow the title character Fred and his adventures, with each story blended into a math problem. 

The story format means there’s no guide or script needed for homeschool educators. It also means the curriculum isn’t dedicated to a spiral or mastery method, nor is it Common Core. Students should aim to complete two books per year in pre-algebra, decreasing to one book as they learn algebra.  

Grades: PreK-8

Benefits:

• Affordable textbooks and workbooks.
• Develops critical thinking skills in math.
• Teaches the meaning of math rather than memorizing techniques.
• Aims to take the student to ability levels above the national average.

Good for: A child who grasps concepts quickly and a homeschool educator who is able to deliver learning without manuals or guides. 

Price range: Expect to spend $50 for each math set.

Singapore Math provides the Primary Mathematics curriculum used in Singapore. Singapore is renowned for its top scores in global math tests and this course aims to replicate that.

This program is different from the traditional US math program because it focuses on encouraging students to think like a mathematician. So instead of memorizing concepts, the student learns how to understand them.  

Singapore Math has different versions of its program, including one to align with Common Core standards. Early levels include a teacher’s manual, but homeschooling parents have said they still need to plan ahead with Singapore Math’s curriculum.

Grades: K-12

Benefits:

• Aligned with Common Core standards.
• Interactive, hands-on learning with plenty of manipulatives.
• Inductive approach to learning that encourages critical thinking. 
• Aims to take the student to ability levels above the national average.

Good for: A child who is a visual learner and inquisitive, as well as an educator who likes to be actively involved in homeschool lessons.

Price range: Expect to spend $110-$120 for each math set.

Influenced by the Montessori method, this math program emphasizes a hands-on approach. It encourages students to discover solutions to math problems through experiments — creating plenty of "eureka!" moments! This is known as inductive learning.

One of Rightstart Math’s key features is the AL Abacus, a simplified abacus used to simulate math problems. The Rightstart Math program is well suited for visual and kinesthetic learners who prefer interactive sessions over workbooks and drills. 

This non-traditional approach means homeschool educators should expect to be heavily involved in each lesson. This is where math games and other activities may help balance your teaching time effectively, especially if you have to teach another child too. 

Grades: K-12 (inc. pre-college)

Benefits:

• Wide math topic coverage across all grades.
• Delivered online with no manipulatives or workbooks needed.
• Free video lessons and exercises delivered in a tutorial format.
• Video instruction that walks students through each math concept.

Good for: A child who responds well to video lessons and is able to sit and learn on their own for long periods of time.

Price range: Lessons are currently free.

Khan Academy is a free online math program that teaches math to a wide audience, including adults!

Lessons on Khan Academy work like online math tutoring, where the student sits through an instructional video and is then given exercises to complete. The platform aims to encourage more learning through badges and experience points. 

Khan Academy delivers math lessons without the need for teacher instruction. This could be useful to parents who need to homeschool more than one child at the same time. 

Grades: 8-12

Benefits:

• Multimedia format may suit visual and auditory learners.
• Mastery method useful for intensive, dedicated learning.
• Focused on teaching algebra and critical thinking of math.
• Less parental instruction needed than other math programs.

Good for: A child enjoys watching while learning and is able to learn on their own for longer periods of time.

Price range: Expect to spend $175-$450 for online access.

VideoText Math takes a holistic approach to teaching math. The program encourages students to develop math problem-solving skills instead of memorizing solutions. Math lessons are shown through videos, available online or with workbooks and sheets. Telephone instructors are available through a helpline for extra support.

Most students begin this math program at an 8th grade level. Those who perform above their grade level or have taken a mastery approach may be ready for certain parts of the program earlier. 

VideoText Math splits math into two separate topics: Algebra and Geometry. The VideoText Math Algebra course covers Pre-Algebra, Algebra 1 and Algebra 2. Once completed, students are then ready to start the Geometry course, which includes trigonometry and pre-calculus.

Grades: 2-5

Benefits:

• Affordable math supplement program.
• Colorful workbooks ideal for visual learners.
• Can be completed without constant parental instruction.
• Focused on building mathematical skills rather than memorizing rules.

Good for: A creative child who enjoys fantasy worlds or stories and best learns through reading.

Price range: Expect to spend $10 per enrichment booklet.

Math Adventures puts a fantastic spin on learning math, just like Prodigy Math Game! 

The math program consists of one booklet per grade, each themed to an adventure, including titles like Spy School and Fairy Tale Land. Each book includes paper manipulatives like flashcards that can be used to supplement teaching. 

The program’s colorful design appeals to visual learners, as well as kids who love stories and fantasy worlds.

Math Adventures is not aligned with Common Core standards and parents may want to combine this with other math programs or even an online math tutor. Like many newer math programs, Math Adventures also focuses on helping students learn the building blocks of math rather than memorizing rules.

Grades: 2-5

Benefits:

• Affordable math program.
• Aligned with Common Core standards.
• Focuses on teaching students how to understand math.
• Students can complete sections of lessons on their own.

Good for: A child who learns best through independent learning and homeschool educators who need to multitask teaching two or more children. 

Price range: Expect to spend $40 per grade level.

Math Mammoth puts the “why” above the “how” when teaching math. Expect your child to learn the building blocks of math rather than just memorizing rules or formulas.  

This math program uses worktexts that combine lessons with plenty of exercises and activities for your child to complete. There are no manipulatives needed for Math Mammoth, making it better suited to visual learners.

Math Mammoth is aligned with Common Core and often goes above the expected level. For example, complex topics like algebra are gently introduced earlier than usual. This approach could be useful at reducing math anxiety as students are gradually exposed to complex topics early on. 

An academic review of home education analyzed two decades worth of studies to see if homeschooling children performed better than schoolchildren. 

The review found that homeschooled children performed better in all subjects — except for math. 

Reasons why homeschooled children may fall behind public school peers in math include:

• Lack of resources — Schools and teachers invest in math resources and programs that suit varied learning styles, such as math games. Homeschool parents may rely on getting the student to read through a textbook.
• Limited educator knowledge — Math is a complex topic, especially at the high school math level when trigonometry and algebra are introduced. Homeschool educators might feel anxious or unprepared to confidently teach math.
• Deprioritizing math — It’s generally easier for homeschool parents to teach verbal and creative subjects. This creates a cycle where students prefer studying these subjects over math because they find it too hard or boring.

While you might not have all the resources of a traditional school teacher, you can make homeschooling math a success for you and your child.

It all starts with a math program that inspires and engages your child. 

This means choosing a math tool that adapts to your child’s needs, rather than the other way around.  

A great homeschool math program:

• Captures your child’s attention
• Rewards your child for their progress
• Challenges your child without intimidating them
• Adapts to your child’s learning every step of the way

And a great math program should empower you as a parent with the support and resources you need. This could include printable worksheets, video lessons or even an online math tutor to help you.

Prodigy Math Game is an engaging online math game that introduces your child to the vibrant fantasy world of Prodigy Island. 

Packed with quests and collectible virtual pets, your child takes part in exciting wizard battles where they’ll answer math questions to cast spells (with in-game math tips available!).

Unlike other math programs, Prodigy Math Game uses algorithm-led learning. It adapts each math question to support your child so that they can be comfortably challenged at their own pace — all while making learning math fun! 

Prodigy Math Game includes many benefits for homeschooling kids and parents, such as:

• Free educational content made by teachers
• Wide curriculum coverage (including Common Core)
• Parent accounts that let you set Goals, give Rewards and understand your child’s learning
• An exciting world regularly updated with new quests and characters to captivate and engage students
• Premium Memberships that level up your child’s learning experience and give you extra resources for homeschooling!
  

See just why homeschool parents AND kids love it below! 👇

Homeschool Math Curriculum- The TOP Choices

Curriculum Homeschool Support Homeschooling Math

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Are you looking for a homeschool math curriculum for your next school year?

Welcome to my Homeschool Curriculum Favorites series. In these posts, I am sharing the results of polling hundreds of homeschool moms and asking their favorite homeschool curriculum resources. Today I am focusing on favorite homeschool math curriculum. There are SO many options, but that’s a great thing, right!? Read on to see the top choices from the poll, and MY top choices.

Math is always a tough subject for me. I spent so much time researching math curriculum and feel like I know ALL about each one. I have tried a new one each year of homeschooling so far!

The great thing is that I am sticking with the same ones next year. I think we are finally happy with our choices. (We have been using Teaching Textbooks for three of my kids and The Good and the Beautiful for my youngest).

This coming school year I will have one in algebra, one in pre-algebra, one in 4th grade and one in 1st grade.

I surveyed a lot of homeschool moms asking their favorites, and the following are the top 5 choices for Homeschool Math Curriculum.

1. Singapore Math– This is a very popular choice for homeschoolers. I have used the K level & am buying 1st grade for next year. It is a very colorful picture approach to math and works well for my daughter. They have all levels (K-12).

2. Math U See– This one is a favorite of so many people. It is highly recommended by many moms. I have no experience with it, but I do know that it is all video based. They have varying levels from K through High School.

3. Saxon Math– We tried this one with my son one year and it was not a good fit. I do know that many people use this curriculum with a lot of success. It is probably one of the more well known maths. They have K-high school levels.

The Saxon math lessons are used in many schools. If you want to stay closely aligned with your public school, this is often a good bet.

4.  Life of Fred– We have several of these delightful books. They are story books that teach math. We have been using the elementary level books, but they also have higher level math books.

I wouldn’t likely use these as a full curriculum, but lots of people do extend it into a full curriculum. We use them as a fun supplement!

5. Teaching Textbooks – We used this program in 3rd and 5th grade with great success!  It has DVD lessons as well as in text format. It is a great way to teach math for those parents who struggle with it or need kids to work independently, because the lessons and grading are all done for you.

I you need help making your homeschool math curriculum choice, check out my e-book: The Quick Guide to Choosing a Homeschool Curriculum. You can find it in my shop!

Also check out my podcast: Called to Homeschool for even more homeschool tips & support!

We have tried a LOT of math programs. There are 4 that stand out as my personal favorites.  After trying SO many different ones, these caused the least amount of grief with my kids!

1. CTC Math is one of our favorite math programs. It is all online with video lessons and practice drills, you get weekly reports emailed to you and can set a passing level that your kids must meet in order to move on to the next lesson. We used it for a few years. See my Review here.

2. Christian Light Publications Math– We used this program for several years with great success. I was really impressed with the content and quality of the materials.

It is all in workbook format, but is simple to use. I do not love using it for the older grades because there is not a lot of explanation for difficult concepts and I struggle with upper level math!

3. Teaching Textbooks – I have used this for a lot of years. It is what we are currently using, too. It is a great one that is fun for kids.

It’s all online and starts at grade 3 and goes through High School math.  See my Review Here.

4. The Good and the Beautiful Math– We use a lot of the curriculum from this website. We have so far only use the math for grade K as they are still creating it for the older grades. But, we loved it! IT’s very hands-on and interactive for your little learners.

More Homeschool Math Curriculum for You to Consider: 

Touch Math (My Review)  I am VERY impressed with this curriculum. I would probably keep using it were it not for the cost… It is great for early elementary & also for special Ed. I highly recommend it!

Miquon Math– This curriculum is a more hands-on approach to learning math, using cuisenaire rods. It is just for grades 1-3.

Aleks math is an online math program that tracks what kids know and teaches to their needs. It uses assessments and responses and tailors learning to that. It is for grades K-12.

Math Mammoth–  This curriculum is all PDF downloads. We have used this & I like it a lot. It is very reasonably priced & there are often discounts available.

I use it as a supplement/variety to the other math we are doing. Lots of people use and love this curriculum!

Math Essentials– This program is for grads 4 and up. Its focus is to improve essential math skills with 20 min/day practice and instruction.

Loving Living Math – This is a short e-book to teach about the concept of “living math” which is just math in the real world all around you. Many people use living math instead of a standard curriculum. It is a wonderful hands-on approach to math!

Right Start Math- this programs emphasizes hands-on learning with lots of manipulatives and minimal worksheets.

A Plus Math is a great website with practice games, printable worksheets, a flashcard creator and more. I am not sure this would work for a full curriculum, but would be great for additional practice.

Khan Academy– This is an amazing FREE website that has videos to teach different Math (& other subjects) concepts. there are also practice lessons to help learn. I know lots of people use and love this site. Be sure to check it out!

Math on the Level– This curriculum is designed to teach math to your whole family at once. It teaches math concepts that you can cater to different levels.

IXL Math– This site lists all of the concepts to learn in each grade level based on standards, then has practice problems for each concept. There is a membership fee, but some of it can be accessed for free.

Pearson Homeschool Math– (My review)  This program has all grade levels. It comes with a text book and a CD-ROM with games. It is meant to reach varying types of learners. I was quite impressed with this one!

What is your favorite math curriculum? Check out the other posts in this series:

Favorite Homeschool Language Arts Curriculum

Favorite Homeschool Science Curriculum

Favorite Homeschool History & Geography Curriculum

Favorite Homeschool Art & Music Curriculum

Real Life Homeschooling

Spill the Beans Math Game - Free Printable

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training programs for the development of first-graders

Types of programs for elementary school

Traditional and developmental systems of education are distinguished in pedagogy:

• Traditional. Training is built according to the scheme "we study - we fix - we check." This system is used both in the beginning and in subsequent classes.
• Developmental. Training is built according to the scheme "we study - we independently draw conclusions - we practice." As a rule, it is aimed exclusively at elementary grades and is not used in middle and high schools. nine0008

Each system has a variety of curricula. Consider the most popular.

Program L.V. Zankova

📌 Developmental curriculum for primary school

Fundamentals of the theory - works of L.S. Vygotsky. According to the program, one should not be afraid of mistakes - they learn from them. The schoolboy jumps above his head, but his own, and not someone else's. Disadvantages of the system: a fast pace of learning and a high level of difficulty is not suitable for every child. nine0005

D.B. system Elkonin - V.V. Davydova

📌 Developing curriculum for elementary grades

Daniil Elkonin and Vasily Davydov are Soviet scientists. According to their program, students in elementary school are not graded, it is assumed that students must independently assess the level of their knowledge.

Most of the parents in this program are afraid that due to the lack of grades, the level of knowledge will be low. Elkonin and Davydov assure that learning is more effective if the student is not demotivated by subjective scores. By the way, elementary Waldorf schools adhere to a similar methodology - children are not graded there either. nine0005

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“School of Russia”

📌 Traditional curriculum for elementary grades

“School of Russia” is the most popular curriculum. Complies with GEF and is used in most schools. The main goal is spiritual and moral development, which is formed in specially created conditions. The main vector is aimed at the adaptation of the child in the team.

Training under the program is aimed at adaptation in a team, accumulation of knowledge and skills for further training. But feedback from parents is not always positive. Many note that the world around us can be greatly reduced, and the four-year program is too long. nine0005

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"RITM"

📌 Traditional curriculum for elementary grades

"RITM" stands for development, individuality, creativity, thinking. The program combines the traditions of the national elementary school K.D. Ushinsky and the achievements of modern psychology and methodology. The features of this curriculum in the primary grades of the school are variability and an extensive information and educational environment. It is believed that every child should learn to think creatively and independently, as well as to reveal their individuality. The system consists of completed subject lines of textbooks, which are included in the federal list, except for the ABC and Literary Reading. nine0005

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Primary school of the XXI century (Vinogradova system)

Vinogradova is a doctor of pedagogical sciences and the creator of a training program for first grade children. The program is aimed at strong students. To pass it successfully, you need to come to the first class with a certain level of preparation. This program is based on the theory of L.S. Vygotsky, as well as the ideas of Elkonin and Davydov. UMK is included in the Federal list of textbooks recommended by the Ministry of Education and Science. It is believed that the goal of a teacher working on this teaching method is to teach a child to learn. nine0005

Perspektiva

📌 Traditional Primary School Education Program

The author of this Primary School Education Program is Lyudmila Peterson, a Russian teacher, mathematician and Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences. In addition to Perspektiva, she developed a popular mathematics course in Russia for preschool and school age. Peculiarities of WMC Peterson are personality education and spiritual and moral development. It is assumed that educational materials are structured so that the child's curiosity is not lost, but constantly nourished and turns into a need to learn new things. nine0005

"Harmony"

📌 Traditional education program for elementary grades

Educational program for elementary grades "Harmony" is based on two principles: humanization and developing education. A feature of the EMC is the dynamic assessment of the success of each child, which is reflected in the portfolio. The concept of the program was proposed by Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences N.B. Istomin. For successful learning under the program, the child must already be able to actively communicate, think logically, and have an objective interest in knowledge. Preparation of preschoolers for "Harmony" falls on the shoulders of parents. nine0005

“School 2100”

📌 Traditional primary education program

This primary education program is called “the concept of the educational system” because it has not one, but a whole team of authors: Sh.A. Amonashvili, A.A. Leontiev, L.G. Peterson, R. N. Buneev, E.V. Buneeva and others. It is based on the “pedagogy of common sense” by A.A. Leontiev. The features of the program are called continuity at all stages of education from kindergarten to university, consistency in the use of acquired knowledge and continuity in the sequence of educational tasks. Work on the program continues at the middle level. As a result, the authors see a child capable of self-development, owning a picture of the world and bearing responsibility for himself and his education. nine0005

Planet of Knowledge

📌 Traditional primary school curriculum

The fundamental principle of this program is variability. TMC consists of two parts:

1. all schoolchildren should know the basic level;
2. difficult level consists of non-standard tasks for curious students who want to increase their knowledge.

According to this elementary school program, the student must strive for new knowledge and enjoy learning. To do this, you need to create comfortable conditions. Therefore, the first year of study is considered adaptive - young students are not overloaded and are allowed to smoothly join the process. The advantages of the program are the variability of levels and tasks, the education of the desire to acquire new knowledge. The disadvantages include preschool education - the child must be able to read and count. nine0005

Promising Primary School

📌 Traditional Primary Education Program

This Primary School program was developed in 2006 along with the first GEF. As in the Planet of Knowledge program, the entire learning process is based on the child's desire to learn. For simplicity of reasoning, constant book characters were invented - Misha and Masha. So children in elementary school learn the material visually.

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Teaching of four foreign languages: English, Spanish, German, French. The program is designed exclusively for beginners - in secondary school, children switch to a program chosen by the administration.

Parents' opinions vary greatly. Thus, many argue that the program is inconsistent and difficult to give. There are moments in the EMC that run counter to the usual school programs. For example, children do not count in a column, but lay out numbers, writing an example on half a sheet. At home, parents explain that it is easier to count in a column, and the child begins to get overtired from incoming disparate information. nine0005 Source: freepik.com
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Foxford program for grades 1-4

Education at Foxford elementary school is based on original programs. However, when compiling them, teachers were guided by the current Federal State Educational Standards and basic school programs. So, the guys study mathematics according to Peterson.

The workload is balanced in such a way that the young student can master the prescribed program without stress, and he has time for games and extra activities. In the primary grades, they study the Russian language, reading (in grades 1-2, these subjects are combined into one - literacy), mathematics, and the outside world. If you wish, the period of study in the lower grades can be reduced and you can finish the primary school as an external student. nine0005

Algorithms and English have been added to the basic subjects at Foxford Primary School. And you can also study additional modules in the Russian language, reading, mathematics and the world around. Each course contains developmental activities to instill in children a greater interest in learning and make learning fun.

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Which primary school curriculum to choose

For those who hesitate and cannot decide which program to prefer, we have compiled a visual table. Here you will see the pros and cons of each educational program for children in primary grades. We hope this will help you make the right choice. nine0014

2023 1st Grade Popular School Programs

Parents of prospective first graders are concerned about which school their child will attend when applying. However, an equally important point is the choice of an educational and methodological program, according to which the development of academic disciplines will take place. We offer an overview of popular school programs for grade 1 for 2023, indicating the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Contents

• 1 What are the systems of education in the 1st grade
• 2 Overview of school programs for the 1st grade for 2023
  • 2.1 Traditional education
    • 2.1.1 School of Russia
    • 2.1.2 Primary school of the 21st century
    • 2.1.3 perspective
    • 2.1.4 Harmony
    • 2.1.5 School 2100
    • 2.1.6 planet of knowledge
  • 2.2 Developmental education
    • 2.2.1 L.V. Zankov's program nine0008
    • 2.2.2 The system of D.B. Elkonin - V.V. Davydov

What are the learning systems in grade 1

According to the Federal State Educational Standard, one of two systems can be the basis of primary education: ;

developing, typical only for elementary grades: an algorithm for search activities - independent search and conclusions - a practice that includes the development of cognitive actions. nine0008

If you find out who each system is suitable for, then the developing one in terms of complexity is available only to a child with a high or average level of training and development of mental processes. The traditional one is suitable for all children without exception, since it contains the moment of explaining new material by the teacher with the obligatory consolidation and testing of knowledge.

2023 Grade 1 School Program Overview

Traditional Education

nine0004 School of Russia

The most demanded program in our country for the 1st grade, which fully complies with the Federal State Educational Standard, is used in the vast majority of schools, is constantly improved and finalized under the auspices of the supervisor A.A. Pleshakov. The popularity of the program is due to several reasons:

• several generations of domestic schoolchildren have learned from it;
• basic subject knowledge, abilities, skills are given;
• the classical educational system is constantly supplemented with new technologies; nine0008
• allows you to successfully learn prepared and unprepared children, with different levels of ability;
• involves systematic preparation for the delivery of All-Russian test papers of various levels of complexity;
• accessible presentation of the material in textbooks.

Much attention is paid to the social adaptation of the child among peers for further moral education and spiritual development. First-graders are instilled with important personal qualities that will later determine integrity and tolerance: kindness, responsiveness, responsibility, justice. A plus is the use of excerpts from the best classical works for children by Russian and Soviet authors for educational purposes. nine0005

The methodology of each academic discipline is aimed at the full mastery of conscious reading, writing, counting. In the process of learning, the basic skills and abilities necessary for successful study in the middle classes are formed. UMK has numerous additional aids for using them at home for self-consolidation and repetition of what has been learned in the classroom.

Advantages:

• simplified system without unnecessary bells and whistles;
• is easily absorbed by any child; nine0008
• enhances active cognition;
• instills a desire to learn;
• distributed to all schools;
• parents can easily help a child;
• WCU is based on classic children's literature.

Weaknesses:

• reproductive type tasks;
• few logical exercises.

Primary school of the 21st century

Recommended for mass implementation in primary school, the teaching materials, compiled by a team of outstanding teachers and psychologists under the leadership of N.F. Vinogradova, are based on three principles:

1. Development of interest in learning new things.
2. Pawning solid knowledge, skills and abilities that will allow you to successfully study in the future.
3. Accounting for the characteristics of each child.

Textbooks and supplementary aids are designed to provide a comfortable assimilation of the educational material of elementary school from the first days.
Education under this program, as noted by many parents, allows the child to quickly become independent and responsible, painlessly enter the new school world, not to lose cognitive interest. As a result, first-graders cope with their homework on their own without resorting to outside help, go to school with pleasure, and develop successfully. However, there are a number of comments and suggestions regarding the compilation of textbooks for their more effective work. nine0005

Advantages:

• individual approach to motivate the child;
• a long period of adaptation to study without stress;
• encouraging the natural curiosity of first graders;
• colorful textbooks with an accessible presentation of the material;
• a lot of practical exercises to consolidate what has been learned.

Disadvantages:

• often the subjects of textbooks and workbooks do not match;
• there is no clear allocation of rules in textbooks. nine0008

Perspective

One of the most popular, created by L.G. Peterson and perfectly combines modern achievements in psychological and pedagogical sciences and the best aspects of the classical Soviet school. It has a number of undeniable advantages and unique features:

1. Training is conducted through communication: certain topics are devoted to the formation of the ability to conduct a dialogue, politely address the interlocutor, and express one's own opinion. Most of the tasks are aimed at understanding the communication of the heroes of works of art and its consequences. nine0008
2. An extraordinary approach to learning new things: pair, group, collective work, discussions, defending one's point of view.
3. The main skill is independence: all tasks and exercises in textbooks and additional manuals are aimed at its formation: problem questions, materials for observation and analysis. The child learns to acquire knowledge himself. Using methods of observation, analysis, generalization.
4. The predominance of oral speech: this is devoted to reading cognitive texts and literary works, followed by oral statements of schoolchildren, mastering the most popular genres of literature. Children learn to correctly formulate thoughts, prove their opinion, communicate politely in a conversation. nine0008
5. Accessible explanations: assignments, text tasks, learning situations are based on life examples that are understandable to first-graders, which increases interest in learning.
6. A wide range of supplementary aids for each school subject: dictionaries, workbooks, readers, reading books, gradebooks.

However, parents of first-graders invariably note a minus in the educational and methodological complex: some inconsistency in the presentation of the material, which creates confusion when trying to help children with homework. Undoubtedly, the authors of the textbooks proceeded from the importance of developing basic skills and abilities, a knowledge base that will facilitate the adaptation of primary school graduates when they move to grade 5. However, to start it from the first class is quite controversial. The thematic plan for the surrounding world is full of material, there are topics that are not important enough for first-graders to master. nine0005

Advantages:

• simple learning algorithm;
• colorful textbooks;
• a large number of additional benefits;
• teaches full communication;
• develops the skill of oral speech;
• original approach to learning;
• comprehensive development of independence.

Disadvantages:

• complicated math program;
• voluminous homework.

nine0004 Harmony

The educational and methodological complex, developed under the guidance of N.B. Istomina, meets all the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standard, combines the principles of traditional and developing forms of education and includes 12 textbooks in all school disciplines, including French, physical culture, technology and spiritual education. moral culture of the peoples of our country. Each textbook has an additional manual in the form of a workbook, an electronic resource, a notebook for assessments, and a book for reading. Much attention is paid to the use of the methods of mental activity of first-graders for solving educational problems: in tasks they are asked to analyze, compare, generalize information, and draw conclusions. Also, many exercises are given to use the empirical experience of the child when compared with the problem task. nine0005

The specifics of the organization of educational activities provides a comfortable and exciting entry into school life, with an emphasis on independent work. From the first day of study, each child begins to fill out a portfolio of their results and achievements, which is the basis for the assessment mechanism.

Advantages:

• emphasis on the mental development of the child;
• predominance of problematic situations in tasks;
• differentiated approach;
• electronic versions of textbooks and applications; nine0008
• additional didactic material for studying at home;
• a combination of traditional and innovative ways of learning.

Disadvantages:

• preparation for school required;
• predominance of theoretical rules over illustrations in textbooks;
• Consistency in the study of the Russian language and mathematics is not always observed.

School 2100

The classic concept of the education system, the features of which are continuity at each level of education, a skillful approach to using acquired knowledge, consistent and continuous performance by a first-grader of each individual educational task in a single complex. Ideally, the teaching staff covers the primary, secondary and senior levels of the general education school. A large amount of educational material is assimilated thanks to the search activity of first-graders with the function of control by the teacher. nine0005

Mathematics and the surrounding world cause the greatest difficulty in mastering, according to the parents of first-graders. However, with successful completion of training, as a result, the child acquires the skills and abilities necessary for self-education, receives a solid knowledge base in the field of all school disciplines, which has a beneficial effect on future admission and study at a higher educational institution.

Advantages:

• students acquire knowledge independently;
• mandatory teacher supervision; nine0008
• contributes to the development of horizons;
• helps to master the skills of information search;
• a lot of practice in the field of writing summaries, essays, abstracts.

Disadvantages:

• tasks are too much for poorly prepared first-graders;
• parental supervision and assistance required;
• not all schools maintain continuity in the 5th grade.

Planet of Knowledge

The team of authors led by Irina Petrova tried in their program, compiled according to all the standards of the Federal State Educational Standard, to pay attention not only to subject lines in basic school disciplines, but also to the basics of ethics and the English language, which is important for modern children. The authors of the project are distinguished by unity in the structure of textbooks, types of tasks and exercises, and forms of education. The organization of educational and extracurricular activities is also carried out in unity.
The key term of the program is the word "self":

• self-development;
• self-discipline;
• self-cultivation;
• self-organization.

In addition to the basic invariant part, textbooks also contain a variable part, which allows first-graders to broaden their horizons. Educational material is presented in a colorful and interesting way. WMC was highly appreciated by practicing teachers. In their opinion, children develop better thinking and creative abilities, they become more assiduous and attentive. nine0005

The only downside is that the successful acquisition of basic knowledge, skills and abilities is not based on the gradual study and repeated repetition of what has been covered, as is provided for in classical projects. First-graders enrolled in this program must necessarily have an average or high level of preparation for school, at least be able to count, read and write. Otherwise, all gaps fall on the shoulders of the parents.

Advantages:

• unity of didactic approach; nine0008
• relationship and integrity of the project;
• emphasis on the development of student autonomy;
• electronic supplements to textbooks.

Disadvantages:

• difficult for an unprepared first-grader;
• in literary reading, emphasis on foreign works.

Developmental training

Program L.V. Zankov

Didactic system founded by L.V. Zankov on the main pedagogical and psychological postulates put forward by L.S. Vygotsky: the zone of proximal development of the child, which can and should be developed with the help of a teacher, as well as the dependence of the mental development of a younger student on teaching methods. This program is distinguished by a high level of complexity, a large amount of material studied, the absence of templates and solution algorithms, an abundance of search and creative tasks, and dialogue with the student. Emphasis is placed on independent search activities of students, theoretical knowledge, empowerment and acquiring solid knowledge along with general development. nine0005

Advantages:

• development of all mental processes;
• leads to high academic performance of children;
• the first year of assessment is not made;
• active influence on the zone of proximal development.

Weaknesses:

• a lot of theory;
• difficult to buy textbooks;
• fast paced learning.

System of D.B. Elkonin — V.V. Davydov

The popular developing program, developed by Soviet psychologists D.B. Elkonin and V.V. Davydov, is built according to a scheme different from traditional programs, therefore it is rather complicated. Much depends on the qualifications and preparedness of the teacher. Suitable for children with a high level of preparation for school. However, when using an individual approach, even weak students are able to learn from it, gaining solid deep knowledge. The authors of the project consider the formation of the need to learn in a first-grader as the main thing. Therefore, all teaching methods and techniques are aimed at this:

• trap tasks - the teacher's intentional errors help to check any information first and make sure it is true;
• games - didactic, story, role-playing, business games are used everywhere in every lesson to enhance and develop mental activity;
• subject-practical activity: research, experiments, observations, measurements;
  group and collective forms of work in the lesson.

For the manifestation of creativity and imagination, a prerequisite is the relaxed and free behavior of the student in the classroom, which the teacher takes care of in order to create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. nine0005

Merits:

• profound knowledge;
• abundance of methods and techniques of search activity;
• conscious motivation to study;
• emphasis on logical thinking and theoretical knowledge;
• lack of diaries and grades.

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