Second Grade

Second-grade students build upon the reading skills introduced in first grade to work toward increased reading comprehension. The teachers use a variety of phonetic and literature-based approaches, including discussion and written analysis, to foster students' appreciation and interpretation of many forms of literature. Students read and discuss poetry and non-fiction as well as a wide range of literary genres, and are encouraged to read for pleasure on a daily basis to establish consistent reading habits.

Written and oral communication is stressed throughout the second grade curriculum. Students learn to recognize and structure complete sentences and paragraphs. Creative writing opportunities are provided on a regular basis. Students also learn the basics of narrative, descriptive and report writing. Second graders are introduced to cursive handwriting in the last half of the year. Weekly spelling units emphasize vocabulary extension, spelling patterns, practice in writing correct sentences, mechanics, and usage. Public speaking opportunities include poetry recital, classroom presentations, and sharing. Research skills are taught and put into practice, and students are supported so that they experience success with independent research assignments and projects.

Second-grade mathematics reinforces and broadens the skills and concepts introduced in first grade, and reinforces mastery of addition and subtraction facts through 20. Second graders begin to master regrouping in addition and subtraction, and multiplication is also introduced. Units on time and money, linear and liquid measurement, geometry, fractions, and tables and graphs are all included. Students spend considerable time reading, interpreting, creating, and solving word problems. Critical thinking and logic are encouraged through written and oral exercises. Students advance through a series of daily focused, structured practice activities to further hone their basic skills. Advanced students receive additional opportunities to apply skills and concepts to more complex problems.

Weekly geography assignments and map skills exercises provide opportunities to read and interpret maps and foster global awareness. Our "immersion" into the Great Barrier Reef fosters an awareness of the interconnected nature of an ecosystem and its fragile ecology. Students develop an understanding of and appreciation for diverse cultures by studying holidays around the world and by researching their respective ethnic backgrounds, and the annual Heritage Festival is the culminating experience for the entire second grade year.