1st Grade Word Search
This 1st grade word search mixes high-frequency sight words with the short-vowel, blend and digraph words first graders meet on their weekly spelling lists. It is a quiet, self-checking activity for morning work, literacy centers or the end of a busy day.
1st Grade Word Search
Find and circle every word in the list. Words go across, down and diagonally.
- CHAIR
- CHIN
- CHIP
- CLASS
- COUNT
- CRAYON
- DESK
- FRIEND
- LUNCH
- PAPER
- PENCIL
- READ
- RECESS
- SCHOOL
- SHIP
- SHOP
- SNACK
- SPELL
- TEACHER
- WRITE
1st Grade Hidden Message Word Search
Find and circle every word in the list. Words go across, down and diagonally.
- CHAIR
- CHIN
- CLASS
- COUNT
- CRAYON
- DESK
- LUNCH
- PAPER
- PENCIL
- RECESS
- SHIP
- SHOP
- SNACK
- SPELL
Hidden message: the leftover letters, read left to right and top to bottom, spell a secret message._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
1st Grade Word Search — Answer Key
1st Grade Hidden Message Word Search — Answer Key
Hidden message: First grade rocks
About this 1st grade word search
- Swap in your own weekly spelling list with the custom generator so the puzzle reinforces exactly what students will be tested on.
- Digraphs like sh, ch and th are a big first grade focus; ask students to highlight those letter pairs in each word they find.
- After finishing, have students pick three found words and write each one in a sentence for extra writing practice.
- Most first graders do best with words placed forward and down only; save diagonal and backward words for later in the year.
Want a different version? Make your own word search with these words, a shaped grid, or bent words.
Words in these puzzles
schoolfriendteacherreadwritecountspellpencilcrayonpaperchairdeskclassrecesslunchsnackshipshopchinchip
Frequently asked questions
›Is this 1st grade word search free to print?
Yes. Print it straight from your browser or download the PDF, which includes 2 puzzles and their answer keys. No sign-up needed.
›Where is the answer key?
The answer keys print on their own pages after the puzzles, and they are in the PDF too. Every word is highlighted, so checking is quick.
›Can I make my own 1st grade word search?
Yes. Press "Customize this puzzle" to open it in the word search maker. There you can add or remove words, change the grid size, pick a shape or add a hidden message.