1st Grade Vocabulary Words & Spelling Words

First graders are just starting to grow into confident readers and writers. Building a strong vocabulary helps them understand classroom instructions, engage with stories, and express their ideas clearly. Below is a list of 1st grade vocabulary words that includes high-frequency terms, basic nouns and verbs, and themed language for real-world understanding.

These word groups are ideal for word walls, games, spelling activities, and home practice.

High-Frequency 1st Grade Vocabulary Words

• after

• any

• away

• could

• first

• most

• soon

• under

• very

• why

Action Words (Verbs)

• hop

• sit

• clap

• kick

• wave

• draw

• fold

• pull

• drop

• wash

Naming Words (Nouns)

• frog

• chair

• bird

• dad

• bed

• park

• fish

• shoe

• hand

• box

Describing Words (Adjectives)

• loud

• soft

• wet

• dry

• nice

• mean

• warm

• cool

• round

• long

Opposites (Antonyms)

• light / dark

• full / empty

• short / tall

• day / night

• front / back

School Vocabulary

• folder

• chalk

• board

• marker

• bell

• class

• count

• note

• bin

• name

1st Grade Sight Words

• the

• was

• are

• come

• here

• said

• where

• when

• what

• who

Seasonal & Fun Words for 1st Graders

• hat

• sled

• pet

• toy

• zoo

• drum

• swing

• bus

• nest

• bell

• 
  

Tips for Teaching 1st Grade Vocabulary

• Use visuals: Picture cards and drawings help solidify meaning.

• Read aloud: Pause during reading time to introduce new words.

• Play games: Try memory match, bingo, and scavenger hunts.

• Incorporate writing: Let students use new words in journals or sentence strips.

With fun, consistent exposure, first graders build a strong foundation in reading and communication. These words help students engage with the world around them and feel confident in books, conversations, and class participation.