Overview of Subjects Studied in First Grade Czech Schools (CJ, M, PRV, TV, HV, VV)

 When our eldest joined first grade (prvni rocnik) I remember how lost I felt while looking at all the abbreviations in the school schedule (rozvrh) for each discipline. In this post I gathered information and summarised general information about what is studied and how each discipline is called in the first  grade (student of 1st class is also called prvnak, class is prvni rocnik).

In the Czech school system, the following disciplines are typically studied in the first grade:

Czech Language (ČJ)

Mathematics (M)

Environmental Studies (Přírodověda also known as Prvouka or PRV)

Music Education (Hudební výchova also known as HV)

Physical Education (Tělesná výchova also known as TV)

Art Education (Výtvarná výchova also known as VV)

Ethics and Culture (Etická a kulturní výchova)

Note: This list may vary slightly depending on the specific school or region.

Czech Language (ČJ)

In the Czech school system, Czech Language, or "Český jazyk" (abbreviated as "CJ" in schedules), is one of the most important subjects studied by students in the first grade. The goal of this subject is to help students develop their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in the Czech language, which is the official language of the Czech Republic.

In the first grade, students typically start by learning the basic letters and sounds of the Czech alphabet. They then progress to basic reading and writing exercises, such as writing their own name, identifying basic vocabulary words, and practicing the formation of letters and words.

As they advance in their studies, students will learn how to read and comprehend simple texts, such as short stories and poems, and will be introduced to more complex grammatical concepts, such as sentence structure, verb tenses, and noun declension.

Throughout their first grade studies in Czech Language, students will also participate in discussions and activities designed to help them develop their communication skills. They will practice speaking and listening to the Czech language in a variety of contexts, such as during group activities, presentations, and classroom discussions.

Overall, the study of Czech Language in the first grade is a critical component of a student's education in the Czech school system. By developing their language skills, students are better equipped to succeed academically, socially, and professionally in the years to come.

Mathematics (M)

Mathematics, or "Matematika" (abbreviated as "M" in schedules), is a fundamental subject studied by students in the first grade of the Czech school system. The aim of this subject is to help students develop their numeracy and problem-solving skills, which are important for their academic and personal development.

In the first grade, students begin their studies by learning basic mathematical concepts, such as numbers, counting, and simple arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction. They learn how to represent numbers in different ways, such as with digits, words, or pictures. They also begin to explore the relationship between numbers and the basic principles of geometry, such as shapes and spatial relationships.

As students advance in their studies, they will be introduced to more complex mathematical concepts, such as multiplication, division, and fractions. They will also learn about measurement, including units of length, weight, and time. Additionally, students will be exposed to basic problem-solving techniques, which will help them develop their critical thinking and analytical skills.

Throughout their first grade studies in Mathematics, students will also engage in various activities that help to reinforce their understanding of these concepts. This may include working with physical manipulatives, such as blocks or counters, to help them visualize mathematical operations, or participating in group exercises that require them to solve problems collaboratively.

Overall, the study of Mathematics in the first grade provides students with a foundation for understanding and engaging with mathematical concepts throughout their academic careers. By developing their numeracy and problem-solving skills early on, students are better equipped to succeed in a variety of academic and professional settings in the future.

Prvouka or PRV

Prvouka is a Czech word that translates to "first science" or "first knowledge". It is an interdisciplinary subject that covers various topics, such as natural sciences, social sciences, and geography. It is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of the world around them, including living and non-living things, their characteristics, and how they interact with each other. Prvouka is usually taught by the class teacher, and it is typically a part of the core curriculum for the first grade in Czech schools. The subject is taught through a combination of classroom instruction, interactive activities, and hands-on experiments.

The primary aim of Prvouka is to stimulate students' curiosity and encourage them to explore and learn more about the world around them. The subject is taught using a child-centered approach, which means that the teacher focuses on the child's interests, abilities, and experiences.

Some of the topics covered in Prvouka include:

• Living things: In this topic, students learn about different types of plants and animals, their characteristics, and their life cycles. They also learn about the basic needs of living things, such as water, air, and food.
• Non-living things: This topic covers various non-living things, such as rocks, water, and air. Students learn about their properties, how they interact with each other, and how they can be used.
• Environment: In this topic, students learn about their environment, including the weather, climate, and seasons. They also learn about the importance of conserving the environment and how they can help to protect it.
• Social sciences: This topic covers basic social science concepts, such as family, community, and society. Students learn about their roles and responsibilities as members of a community and how they can contribute to society.
• Geography: In this topic, students learn about different parts of the world, including their location, climate, and natural resources. They also learn about maps and how to use them.

Prvouka is a valuable subject that provides a strong foundation for students' later studies in science and other disciplines. It helps students develop their observation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Moreover, it encourages students to appreciate the world around them and to develop a sense of curiosity and wonder.

In conclusion, Prvouka is an interdisciplinary subject taught in Czech schools in the first grade. It covers various topics related to natural sciences, social sciences, and geography. The subject is taught using a child-centered approach and aims to stimulate students' curiosity and encourage them to explore and learn more about the world around them. It provides a strong foundation for students' later studies and helps them develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and observation skills.

----------------article will be updated with the rest of the disciplines on following days-----------------------