By the end of kindergarten, children should be able to recognize all uppercase/lowercase letters, know their sounds, read 30+ sight words, and write simple CVC words. Math skills include counting to 100, recognizing numbers 0-20, and basic addition/subtraction within 10. Socially, they should follow 2-3 step directions, manage personal belongings, and show basic emotional regulation
- Reading & Writing: Recognize/write all 26 letters, identify letter sounds, read CVC words (cat, map), write their first/last name, and read 30+ high-frequency sight words (the, and, is).
- Math: Count to 100 by ones and tens, recognize numbers 0-20, understand 1-to-1 correspondence (counting objects), and solve basic addition/subtraction within 10.
- Cognitive & Motor Skills: Identify basic shapes (circle, square, triangle), sort objects by color/size, use scissors safely, and hold a pencil correctly.
- Social & Emotional: Follow 2-3 step directions, share materials, pay attention for 15-20 minutes, work independently, and express needs/wants in words.
Science:
- Life Science: Students should understand that plants and animals need food, water, and light, and they can change their environment. They should recognize life cycles and the differences between living things.
- Physical Science: Students should know that objects are made of materials (clay, wood, cloth) with distinct properties. They should understand the concepts of push/pull, motion, and how materials can change.
- Earth and Space Science: Students should identify daily weather changes and how they change across seasons, as well as the effects of the sun on the Earth’s surface (e.g., creating shade, heat).
Social Studies:
- Civics and Government:
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- Understand the purpose of rules in the classroom, home, and community.
- Recognize authority figures and the importance of fairness and respect.
- Identify key American symbols (flag, bald eagle, Statue of Liberty).
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- Geography:
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- Understand that maps are drawings and globes are models of Earth.
- Identify basic land and water features.
- Know their own city, state, and country.
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- History:
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- Distinguish between past, present, and future.
- Learn about national holidays (e.g., MLK Jr. Day, Thanksgiving).
- Understand that families and communities may change over time.
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- Economics:
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- Differentiate between needs and wants.
- Understand that people work to earn income.
- Recognize the difference between goods and services.
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- Culture:
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- Describe their own culture (food, clothing, language) and compare it with others.
- Understand their family’s heritage and traditions.