
First Grade Sight Word List
Check out our printable list of common high-frequency words for first graders.
As young students begin first grade, they take an important step forward in their reading development. First-grade sight words, also known as high-frequency words, are crucial for their literacy growth, as they are the most frequently used words in the English language. (Sight words are also known as high-frequency words.)
Recognizing them quickly and effortlessly is essential for young learners, as it can improve their reading speed and comprehension, setting a strong foundation for future success. However, when introducing children to sight words for the first time, use a phonetic approach.

Children can become more confident and fluent readers by introducing first-grade sight words and providing consistent practice and support. Engaging them with fun and creative activities incorporating these words can foster a love for reading and promote a positive learning experience.
As they master these essential sight words, they will be well on their way to becoming proficient readers, paving the way for their long-term academic success.
List of Common First-Grade Sight Words
Below is a selection of common sight words for first graders. These words have been carefully chosen to be age-appropriate and relevant for children at this stage of their education.
| about | all | also | any |
| as | been | by | call |
| come | could | did | do |
| does | don’t | down | each |
| find | first | go | good |
| has | her | him | his |
| if | into | its | it’s |
| know | made | many | me |
| more | most | my | no |
| number | of | one | only |
| or | other | over | part |
| people | right | said | see |
| should | small | so | some |
| their | them | there | these |
| time | to | try | two |
| up | us | use | very |
| water | were | what | when |
| where | which | who | why |
| won’t | word | work | your |
Example Sentences Using First-Grade Sight Words
To help your child better understand and apply the first-grade sight words they’ve learned, practice reading and creating sentences using these words. Here are ten example sentences that incorporate a variety of first-grade sight words:
1. After school, she wants to play with her friends.
2. We ask the teacher for help when we don’t know the answer.
3. Could you please give me a glass of water?
4. Every day, they walk to the park and play on the swings.
5. She had a small gift for him, tied with a colorful bow.
6. Let’s think about what we want to do this weekend.
7. We will go on a picnic if the weather is nice.
8. Do you know the name of the school?
9. They put the books back on the shelf after reading them.
10. The children smiled and danced at the party.
Using these example sentences, encourage your child to read and understand each one. Additionally, work together to create more sentences using the first-grade sight words, further reinforcing their learning and application.

Tip: Help make learning about high-frequency words feel like play with these sight word activities for first graders. For more tips and activities on helping your child learn sight words, check out our post on how to teach sight words to children of different ages.
ABCmouse First-Grade Sight Word Games
Introducing your child to first-grade sight words is an important step in their literacy development. By incorporating fun activities and games, you can create a positive learning environment that helps to inspire a love for reading.
Online Sight Word Games
ABCmouse has many first grade sight word games for your young learner. Here are just a few that kids can play for free!

Cat Catch Fever Sight Words
Help a skateboarding cat catch high-frequency sight words like want, have, did, new, and must to build reading fluency skills.

Run, Chicken, Run: Sight Words
In this pre-k game, players assist a chicken as it races across a farm trying to collect the sight words we, it, funny, and look!
Remember that learning and practice are key to mastering sight words, so it’s important to be patient and supportive as your child progresses. As they improve their fluency and comprehension, you’ll be amazed at the impact learning 1st-grade sight words can have on their academic journey and future success.
Additional Resources for First Graders
Go beyond sight words with all that ABCmouse offers, such as first-grade math and reading insights and activities.
Math Concepts for First Graders
Explore the math concepts that first graders are typically ready to learn.
Browse →
Noun and Pronoun Practice Worksheets
Help your child practice their ability to use and identify nouns and pronouns with these printable worksheets.
Browse →
These resources offer a blend of activities and educational content that can make learning a fun and rewarding experience.
ABCmouse’s expert advice review process:
Our team of ABCmouse Curriculum Experts, made up of talented professionals in early childhood education and development, take a close look at educational content and learning claims. They put in the effort to make sure our information is accurate and current. We have a certified educator or another respected authority review the content, matching their expertise with the topic at hand. They’ll make sure the content is thorough and follows the latest research and educational guidelines. If they think we can make things even better, they’ll chat with our editorial team, and we’ll make those improvements right away. Only after a reviewer gives their thumbs-up does a piece of content get the official stamp of approval in the byline.


