# A sight word game built for first grade

> Source: https://www.wordbeasts.com/first-grade-sight-word-game

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

## TL;DR

- Covers all 40 First Grade Dolch words plus review of earlier levels.

- Adaptive engine targets the specific words your first-grader misses.

- Short 5–10 minute sessions fit after-school and homework routines.

- Parent dashboard shows accuracy, mastered words, and trouble spots.

## 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

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).

Yes. Word Beasts starts wherever your child is and adapts. There is no "behind" — just the next word to master.

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.

## Related reading

### Kindergarten edition

The Pre-Primer and Primer levels.

### Full Dolch list

All 220 Dolch sight words explained.

### For struggling readers

When a first grader needs extra help.

### For parents

Pricing, safety, and parent dashboard.