A sight word game built for first grade
First grade is where reading really starts to take off. Word Beasts teaches all 40 First Grade Dolch words and keeps Pre-Primer and Primer words sharp through gentle review.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
What sight words do first graders learn?
The 40 First Grade Dolch words include: after, again, an, any, ask, as, by, could, every, fly, from, give, going, had, has, her, him, his, how, just, know, let, live, may, of, old, once, open, over, put, round, some, stop, take, thank, them, then, think, walk, were, when.
These words appear constantly in first-grade readers. Mastering them is the difference between halting, decoded reading and smooth, fluent reading.
How does Word Beasts adapt to a first grader?
The engine looks at each child's last several attempts on every word. Words above 80% accuracy move to long-spaced review. Words below that come back more often, with helpful tips like "thank starts with th — feel your tongue between your teeth."
This means a first-grader who already knows half the list will spend their time on the half they don't — not on busywork.
Should first graders be using a sight word app every day?
A short daily session — 5 to 10 minutes — is the research-backed sweet spot. It is more effective than long, infrequent sessions and easier to make into a habit.
Word Beasts is designed around that rhythm. The streak system gently rewards showing up, without nagging on days you skip.
Try Word Beasts free
The magical reading game that teaches the 220 Dolch sight words. One-time $19.99 — no ads, no subscriptions, 30-day refund.
Frequently asked questions
How many sight words should a first grader know by the end of the year?+
Most U.S. first grade standards aim for 100–150 sight words by year-end. That is roughly the combined Pre-Primer, Primer, and First Grade Dolch lists (132 words).
My child is in first grade but reading at a kindergarten level — will it help?+
Yes. Word Beasts starts wherever your child is and adapts. There is no "behind" — just the next word to master.
Does it teach reading comprehension?+
Not directly — Word Beasts focuses on sight word fluency. But fluency is the foundation comprehension is built on. Pair it with a daily read-aloud or independent reading time.