The first year of elementary school of nine years: a theoretical review

Abstract The paper reviews Brazilian publications dealing with the theme of the first year of elementary school of nine years, considering the period from 2005 to 2015. The SciELO database (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and Portal de Periódicos da CAPES database were searched from two descriptors: The nine year of basic education and the first year of elementary school. The search resulted in 43 papers in SciELO database and 37 in Portal de Periódicos da CAPES. Of the total, 16 articles were selected for the analysis of content, which comprised three thematic categories: Education Policy, Implementation of the First Year of Elementary School, Literacy and letramento. The results revealed concerns, especially about the mismatch between educational policy and educational practice. While these issues can not be generalized, it is important to consider that the extension of school time is not necessarily an indicator of educational quality.