Subjects and class hours
Standard yearly class periods set by the national curriculum. Schools may add more.
- Japanese 315 periods
- Arithmetic 175 periods
- Life environment studies 105 periods
- Physical education 105 periods
- Music 70 periods
- Arts and crafts 70 periods
- Moral education 35 periods
- Homeroom and special activities 35 periods
Source: MEXT Course of Study (2017 revision), standard class hours.
What they learn
- Japanese
- 160 new kanji, reading longer stories and explanations, and writing about their own experiences.
- Arithmetic
- The multiplication tables (kuku, 九九), adding and subtracting with carrying, numbers up to 10,000, measuring in cm, mm, litres and decilitres, and simple fractions.
- Life environment studies
- Growing vegetables, exploring the town and its shops, and showing grade 1 children around school.
- Also
- Music, arts and crafts, PE and moral education.
School life this year
- Reciting the multiplication tables aloud, often signed off by teachers and parents.
- A visit to local shops, a station or a library as part of life environment studies.
- Looking after the new grade 1 children.
School life guides
Not sure of the grade? Try the grade calculator →
Based on Japan's School Education Act and guidance from the Ministry of Education (MEXT). Local rules and dates vary, so check with your city or school.