Welcome Second Graders
Religion:
Second grade is an important year because the students will undergo preparation to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. In addition to that, there are four more areas of instructional focus. The first is to introduce sacraments as signs through which we experience God. Second, students will develop an awareness of the Three Persons of the Trinity. Third, students will demonstrate that people respond to God’s Word by living his Law of Love. Lastly, students will understand that the family is a reflection of God’s loving presence. Family Life content is also included in the second grade curriculum. The students also attend one morning Mass each week.
Language Arts:
Students read and comprehend a wide variety of children’s literature including stories and poetry. Students analyze the elements of narrative text, characters, plot and setting. Students learn about rhythm, rhyme, and alliteration and how those techniques add meaning. They compare and contrast elements within and among text. They also compare and contrast versions of stories written by different authors and cultures. Students learn how read diagrams and charts making use of the text features. Students are exposed to a wide array of academic language that helps them increase their vocabulary. The literature and informational text serve as models for students in writing. Students learn how to write multiple paragraph narrative (stories) and expository (explanation and opinion) essays and in the process learn to revise and edit. Grades 1-5 also utilize the strategies of Writing Workshop by Lucy Calkins. Students learn to write and speak with a command of the conventions of English. They identify and correctly use parts of speech in writing and speaking. They learn rules of capitalization and the use of punctuation. Students learn to write and speak in complete and descriptive sentences. They learn to decode and spell nonsense words using their knowledge in spelling and phonics. Students also learn how to write legibly using modern manuscript and cursive.
Math:
Students model, represent, and interpret number relationships to create and solve problems involving addition and subtraction. Students understand the relationship between numbers, quantities, and place value in whole numbers up to 1,000. Students estimate, calculate, and solve problems involving addition and subtraction of two- and three-digit numbers. They also model and solve simple problems involving multiplication and division. Second graders understand that fractions and decimals may refer to parts of a set and parts of a whole. They also model and solve problems by representing, adding, and subtracting amounts of money. Furthermore, students use estimation strategies in computation and problem solving. Students understand that measurement is accomplished by identifying a unit of measure iterating (repeating) that unit, and comparing it to the item to be measured. Students collect numerical data and record, organize, display, and interpret the data on bar graphs and other representations. They also demonstrate an understanding of patterns and how patterns grow and describe them in general ways. Students make decisions about how to set up a problem, solve it and justify their reasoning.
Science:
The students develop a beginning understanding of the forces of gravity, magnetism and learn about the ability of vibrating objects to make sounds. Students also locate objects and measure its distance and note its orientation to another object that serves as a reference point. Students learn the foundation for understanding the concepts of genetics, evolution, and ecology. They also learn that plants and animals have predictable life cycles. Students also learn how environmental factors affect plants and animals. Students learn about prehistoric life by looking at fossils. They learn about natural resources and how they are used to serve the needs of the people.The class also has an opportunity to participate in the annual school Science Fair.
Social Studies:
In Second Grade students develop a beginning sense of history through the study of the family. They are introduced to primary sources related to family history. Students also learn to describe the absolute and relative locations of people, places and environments. They learn to locate specific locations and geographic features in their neighborhood or community by using a simple letter-grid system. They learn to read maps by using the map elements. Second graders also learn about governmental institutions and practices in the United States and other countries. They continue to develop their understanding of rules and laws, the role of government, and rights and responsibilities. Students also develop economic literacy and appreciation of the many people who work. Finally, students are introduced to many people, ordinary and extraordinary, who have contributed to society. They also learn that they can make a difference by brainstorming solutions to problems and taking action.
Fine Arts:
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. There is a weekly music class taught by the school music teacher and two annual music concerts.
Technology:
Students learn how to operate the computer in a basic level. They learn to use word processing applications to create documents that they edit, print and save. They also learn how to insert photos and search for information on the web. Students learn the basics of typing by locating the correct positions of their fingers. This helps them build proficiency and speed in typing. Students use different applications on the iPad across curriculum.