Focusing on the intrinsic value of learning, the second graders develop a love for learning and the motivation to succeed in and out of school. Students learn to be more self-sufficient and take more responsibility for their work and social interactions through role-play activities and good decision making techniques. Our Core Values are incorporated throughout the classroom community each day, creating an atmosphere in which important qualities of character are understood, modeled, valued, and practiced. The second graders read a variety of literature for enjoyment and information. Reading selections include classic children’s literature, early chapter books and series, poetry, and nonfiction materials. Increasing fluency, expression, and comprehension in reading are important goals. Students strengthen their reading and writing skills by learning more about decoding words, sentence structure, grammar, punctuation, spelling, and dictionary skills. These skills are integrated with other areas of study. Students develop both oral and written communication skills through letter writing, research reports, journals, and book reports. Creative writing is emphasized throughout the year in the form of stories and poems.

The students develop their math skills by acting as problem solvers. The second grade math program promotes mathematical thinking by encouraging students to apply a variety of strategies to develop and describe their own rules for solving problems. By exploring data with tables, charts, and graphs and by inventing algorithms that are mathematically sound, students develop a solid understanding of numbers and the place value system. Students also create their own mathematical problems, giving them a solid conceptual understanding. Reinforcement of number facts is accomplished through active, engaging math games and activities, using manipulatives and calculators.

In social studies the students study the importance of community and friendship. They explore their family’s heritage and culture, learn about the roles and responsibilities of people living in a community, and create maps of their classroom, school, neighborhood, and local community. Students also “travel around the world,” discovering the geography, culture, customs, and languages of every continent. Guest speakers, field trips, and service projects enhance the students’ understanding of the needs in their community.