In Grade 1, the Theoretical Learning approach to mathematics instruction develops children's ability to think mathematically from the very beginning of school. In the usual approach to math, counting is the starting point for learning how to use numbers. But in this new approach the children learn about number as a relation between real quantities: lengths, areas of shapes, volumes of liquids, as well as amounts of separate objects we can count visually.

The children will learn to add and subtract with standard numerical symbols just a little bit later than in the usual curriculum, beginning in January. When this does happen, the children will develop computation skills more rapidly and solidly as a result of having a better foundation. The children will be better able to apply what they can do with numbers to "real world" situations involving quantities. They will be able to approach word problems with greater confidence. And they will also have been introduced to the basics of algebra and geometry.

By the end of Grade 1, the children will be able to:
- compare two objects in different properties (color, shape, size, length, area, volume, mass, amount of separate objects);
- measure a quantity using a unit and describe this action using diagrams and formulas;
- construct a number line;
- use the number line to compare numbers and to find their sum and difference;
- perform addition and subtraction of numbers up to 10 (at the level of skill);
- work with algebraic numbers (numbers represented by letters);
- distinguish basic geometric figures: a straight line, a line segment; open and closed lines; simple geometric shapes such as circle, square, and triangle.