Wyndcroft School

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What’s New in Second Grade?

Our second graders are continuing to build and develop the skills introduced in previous years. They multiply and divide numbers, add and subtract 4-digit numbers, and master place value up to 1 million. Second graders also learn parts of speech, write their own stories, and develop their cursive handwriting. Each year, second graders visit the state capitol in Harrisburg as part of their exploration of state history and government. In science, they complete hands-on activities as they learn about molecules and surface tension.

The following is a typical second grade daily schedule at Wyndcroft:

6 periods with the classroom teacher learning Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies
3 periods with Special area teachers (Art, Computer, French, Health, Library, Music, Physical Education, Science)

Language Arts

The second grade language arts program includes reading, spelling, English, creative writing, and handwriting. Students read using a basal reader along with various other types of literature and trade books. They practice decoding skills in order to increase reading fluency. Students develop comprehension skills such as sequence, inference, drawing conclusions, and analyzing information. A phonetic approach in spelling compliments the decoding skills in reading. Parts of speech are introduced and stressed in the English series. Second graders study sentence structure as part of the writing program in which they learn the writing process. These steps are utilized through various types of writing projects. Second graders review and refine their manuscript handwriting for the first part of the year, then begin and develop cursive writing throughout the remainder of the year.

The following are our language arts objectives for second graders

to read various types of literature
to recognize antonyms, synonyms, homophones, and multiple meaning words
to strengthen comprehension and critical thinking skills
to enhance dictionary skills
to express ideas through speaking and writing
to develop the writing process
to utilize proofreading skills
to recognize and develop proper sentence structure
to recognize parts of speech
Language Arts continued:
to implement capitalization and punctuation rules
to refine manuscript writing
to introduce and develop cursive writing
to strengthen word attack skills
to apply phonetic patterns to weekly spelling words

Textbooks: Literature Work Level 2 (Silver Burdett Ginn), Spelling and Vocabulary, Level 3 (Houghton Mifflin), English, Level 3 (Houghton Mifflin), Handwriting 2-C (Zaner Bloser)

Mathematics

Second graders begin by reviewing basic addition and subtraction facts and the strategies involved in finding these facts. They then master place value up to one million, learn to tell time to the minute, and compute elapsed time. Second graders count amounts of money and calculate change, add and subtract numbers up to 4-digits, collect information to make and read bar and picture graphs, multiply and divide numbers up to 10, and compare fractional parts of a whole and set.

The following are our mathematics objectives for second graders:

to master addition and subtraction facts to 18
to read and write up to 6-digit numbers
to tell time to the minute using A.M. and P.M.
to calculate elapsed time
to count amounts of money
to count out money for change
to reinforce addition and subtraction skills by using a menu to recreate everyday situations
to add 4-digit numbers with trading
to add numbers and money in columns
to subtract 3-digit numbers with trading
to identify various types of graphs and draw conclusions including range, median, and mode
to develop standard and metric measurement skills
to find the product of numbers with factors up to 10
to solve division problems using divisors up to 10
to use objects to develop an understanding of comparing fractions
to add and subtract fractions with like denominators
to develop problem solving strategies and mathematical reasoning
to explore symmetry, congruence, and angles in geometric shapes

Textbook: Mathematics Grade 2 (and some Grade 3) (Harcourt)

Social Studies

Second graders start by studying geographical terms and interpreting maps. They then examine different communities, their structure, and the concepts of leadership, membership and government. Through economic terms and concepts, students are introduced to the idea that communities and governments also produce goods and services. Second graders then go on to study Pennsylvania and its government, culminating with a field trip to Harrisburg where they visit the state museum and tour the Capitol. After studying the state government, students learn about national government and Washington, D.C.

The following are our social studies objectives for second graders:

to understand the structure of a community
to read and interpret mapsto understand fundamental terminology in geography
to develop awareness of different communities around the world
to develop an awareness of Pennsylvania history and its capital
to read and discuss biographies of famous people
to read about different careers and jobs that exist in the community
to learn the kind of education and skills necessary to perform in different jobs

Textbook: Neighborhoods (Houghton Mifflin)

Specials Subjects:

Art

Second graders develop awareness in three dimensions, design, mixing, blending colors, and texture. They examine the world of art in these areas:
Space: balance
Light: warm and cool colors
Texture: contrast

The following are our art objectives for second graders:

to reinforce skills and techniques previously met
to use more detail with mosaics
to compose art using more complex models (ex. fruit)
to use papier-mâché
to use tempera paint
to create small crafts for various service projects
to compose pictures with tape

Computer

Second graders focus on learning the basic operations of computer usage, input devices, output devices and software. They are introduced to networks and publication tools. This course reinforces formatting tools. Students discuss the fundamental concepts of technology in their class work.

The following are our computer objectives for second graders:

to become proficient in the use of formatting tools in word processing
to use input devices (e.g. mouse, keyboard) and output devices (e.g. monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers
to use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities
to communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology
to maneuver within a network for the storage and retrieval of data
to use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g. desktop publication tools, educational software, and multimedia software) to support learning
to work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers and others when using technology in the classroom
to demonstrate positive social behaviors when using technology
to practice responsible use of technology systems
and software
to use technology resources (e.g. desktop publications, logical thinking programs, writing tools, and drawing tools) for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories
to integrate two levels of media

French

Second graders explore French language and culture through the use of an elementary level text and workbook. This text introduces new vocabulary and grammar through age appropriate stories, pictures, and songs. The student workbook reinforces new vocabulary and grammar through listening, reading, and writing exercises. Students examine various themes such as à l’école (at school), bonne anniversaire (happy birthday), au monde des vêtements (the world of clothing), and au monde des animaux (the world of animals). They complete art projects expressing holiday themes to enhance their cultural understanding. Second graders also present a project to the entire school during the annual French Fête.

The following are our French objectives for second graders:

to learn formal French grammar
• to introduce new French vocabulary and culture
• to use French expressions of greeting and courtesy
• to demonstrate the use of voici and voilà
• to use definite and indefinite articles
• to form questions in French
• to use c’est and ce sont with a proper name in a sentence
• to understand and use possessive adjectives
• to demonstrate the use of the verb aimer
• read and comprehend French stories

Textbooks: Aventures Books 1 and 2 (NTC / McGraw Hill), Hélico Level 1 (ELI – Pierre Bordas et Fils – Paris)

Health

In this course, second graders gain the opportunity to acquire knowledge, practice skills, and develop attitudes that can benefit them throughout life. The course is divided into 10 units: mental and emotional health; family and social health; growth and development; nutrition; personal health and physical activity; alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; communicable and chronic diseases; consumer and community health; environmental health; and injury prevention and safety. Additionally, the second grade students take part in the BABES (Beginning Alcohol and Basic Addictions Education Studies) program. This program is an eight week primary prevention course. The BABES program uses seven delightful puppets relating stories of their encounters in life. BABES focuses on expressing feelings and building self-esteem.

The following are our health objectives for second graders:

to learn ways to improve mental health and manage stress
to adopt health-promoting and risk-reducing behaviors in order to prevent
substance abuse
to learn ways to improve mental health and manage stress
to describe the basic structure and functions of the human body systems
to demonstrate the ability to locate resources from home, school, and community
which provide valid health information
to demonstrate attentive listening skills in order to build and maintain healthy
relationships

Textbook: Totally Awesome Health (Big Book)

Library

Second graders focus on alphabetizing, subject headings, fiction and nonfiction, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and folktales.

The following are our library objectives for second graders:

to locate fiction books by author’s last name
to know that spine level indicates where the book is placed on the shelf
to determine the difference between fiction and non- fiction in the most obvious instances
to locate books with assistance in fiction collection that he/she is able to read
to locate materials on a topic with assistance in the nonfiction collection
to locate the general encyclopedias in the library
to find a topic in an encyclopedia with assistance
to use alphabetical order and guide words in dictionary work
to develop familiarity with primary periodicals
to understand audio/visual presentations
to become acquainted with folktales from around the world

Music

As in first grade, second graders focus on developing their basic music skills and appreciation of music. The skills covered include basic rhythm and melody. Appreciation includes listening to a variety of music, stories of composers (age-appropriate), and an awareness of the different families of musical instruments. In addition, second graders take part in an on-stage musical performance.

The following are our music objectives for second graders:

to develop rhythmic awareness (2-4 meter beats)
to differentiate between high-low pitch and melodic direction
to continue to match tones and melodic contours through echo singing
to learn about composers and different musical styles through listening activities and stories
to apply learned musical skills through a performance of a musical play
to begin recorder instruction if students show a readines
to be able to identify and use simple musical notation (staff, measures, rests, and notes)
to use rhythm instruments to help accompany songs
to reinforce basic musical skills through computer work and theory worksheets which are age-appropriate

Textbooks: Yamaha Recorder Student, Book I (Alfred)

Physical Education

This course is designed to further sharpen students’ motor movements and skills. Second graders learn to follow multi-step instructions and move from one physical activity to another. Personal and social behavior in a gymnasium setting is also emphasized. In addition, second graders learn the importance of proper attire for physical activity.

The following are our physical education objectives for second graders:

to follow directions
to keep a ball in a continuous motion
to develop longer stamina in order to increase game play time
to understand and follow rules inside the gym and on the playground
to choose playmates without disrupting the classroom environment
to develop a need for physical activity on a daily basis
to understand the need for daily physical activity
to enjoy physical activity

Science

The second grade curriculum is designed to incorporate all areas of general science. The units are designed to provide a brief overview of a science concept and introduce new vocabulary to further build upon. Each unit uses various teaching modes and experiments to show the students how these concepts play a role in daily life activities. Second graders examine a variety of topics: the properties of water, oceans, light, heat and sound energy, plants, and the past and present. Students start off the year by exploring all the fascinating properties of water. They learn about the power of molecules and the amazing features of surface tension through many hands-on labs. After this second graders further investigate water by taking a look at oceans. The students learn how to complete basic research as they are guided through a series of questions about the ocean. Second graders also enjoy making their own phones and instruments to help explain sound and growing plants in crystal soil. Again, there are many labs to help create extensions to the world outside of the classroom.

The following are our science objectives for second graders:

to use techniques and experiments that can be safely reproduced at home
to improve students’ fine motor skills and communication skills both orally and written
to see the relevance of general science concepts to real life situations
to develop an awareness of children’s literature to science concepts and improve reading skills
to understand water and its properties, density, and surface tension
to identify the major oceans and basic knowledge of ocean life and technology
to better understand light, heat, and sound energy and the terms associated with it
to increase confidence in successfully completing science experiments
to build confidence in mastering concepts
to successfully answer questions using various resources
to begin to learn how important observations are in the science community
to increase responsibility in discussions and labs
to understand basic plant terms, and to identify the parts of a plant and tree
to gain an appreciation for the past in terms of fossils and dinosaurs

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