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SECOND GRADE

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Growing in Faith and Academic Understanding in Second Grade

Second grade at St. Victor School is a meaningful year as students deepen both their academic skills and their understanding of faith. As part of our Catholic school community, students prepare to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, strengthening their identity as Children of Faith.

Academically, students expand their reading comprehension and writing abilities through stories, poetry, and informational texts while developing stronger vocabulary and grammar. In math, students build fluency with numbers up to 1,000 and strengthen their problem-solving skills through addition, subtraction, and real-world applications.

Science lessons encourage curiosity through hands-on investigations of plants, animals, and the natural world, while social studies introduces students to geography, culture, and citizenship. Through these experiences, students grow academically while developing the values and habits that guide lifelong learning.

Meet Your 2nd Grade Teacher

Mrs. Jill Van Huystee

I went to college at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. After college, I moved to San Jose and worked as an engineer where I met my husband. After our two children were born, they are now grown, I decided to go into teaching. Teaching is in my blood; my whole family are or have been teachers.

2nd Grade Highlights

Father Mark, pastor of St. Victor School, administering communion to a young girl dressed in white during a church service. Other children in white attire are kneeling in the pews, with stained glass windows in the background.

Religion

In second grade, students prepare for sacraments and learn about the Trinity, God's Word, and family life. They attend weekly morning Mass and focus on five areas of instruction.

An older St. Victor School student reading a book to a younger student outside at a blue metal picnic table, with more students sitting on a bench in the background near a grassy area.

Language Arts

Students read and analyze literature, learning about narrative elements, literary techniques and text features. They compare and contrast different versions of stories and increase their vocabulary. Students also learn to write narrative and expository essays, revise and edit their work, and use proper English conventions.

Math

Students learn addition, subtraction, multiplication, and of two- and three-digit numbers. They understand fractions, decimals, and money. Students use estimation strategies and learn measurement, data collection, and interpretation. They also understand patterns and problem-solving.

St. Victor School students collaborating on a STEAM project, building a structure with cardboard and blue tape as part of their hands-on learning experience in a classroom setting.

Science

Students learn about gravity, magnetism, sound, genetics, evolution, ecology, life cycles, environmental factors, prehistoric life, natural resources, and participate in the Science Fair.

A young St. Victor School student sitting at his desk, focused on a tablet while working with a magazine spread in a classroom filled with educational posters and artwork on the walls.

Social Studies

Second graders learn about family history, geography, government, economics, and social contributions. They use primary sources, maps, and a letter-grid system to locate places. They also develop an understanding of rules, laws, and rights, and learn how to make a difference.

St. Victor School students participating in a music class, playing ukuleles. A girl in the foreground, wearing a red beret and plaid uniform, concentrates on her instrument while other students play in the background.

STEAM

Students continue to expand their understanding of the elements of art and apply them as they use basic tools and art-making processes such as printmaking and collage. Students receive weekly instruction in music enrichment.

Students learn to use word processing applications and design elements. Use of the school-distributed iPad's are woven throughout the curriculum.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

What do students learn in 2nd grade?

Second grade students strengthen reading, writing, math, science, and social studies skills while expanding vocabulary, comprehension, and problem-solving. The 2nd Grade Curriculum section above provides details about each subject.

Why is 2nd grade important in a Catholic school?

Second grade is when students prepare to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, deepening their understanding of the Mass and Catholic faith.

What science topics do second graders study?

Students explore plants, animals, habitats, water, and changes to the Earth through hands-on investigations and scientific observation.

Do second graders learn cursive?

Yes. Second grade students begin learning cursive handwriting as part of their writing development. Students are given dedicated time during homeroom to work on application essays, with opportunities for teacher feedback and peer-to-peer editing. These skills not only support the high school application process, but also help students build confidence in writing, self-reflection, and communication—skills they will continue to use when applying for summer jobs, leadership opportunities, and eventually college.

How much homework do second graders usually have?

Students typically receive homework in math and English language arts along with regular reading practice.

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