Second Grade

Under the guidance of a teacher and intern (shared between both sections), the second grade program provides many opportunities for students to study independently and with others, as well as develop their social skills. Each day begins with Morning Meeting, where students practice the skills of greeting, listening, responding, and group problem-solving. The curriculum is presented through timed centers, small groups and long-term projects and studies. In second grade, homework becomes an integral part of learning. Homework is assigned at the beginning of the week for the entire week in some subjects, such as spelling, which is due at the end of the week. Other homework assignments may be given daily, in subjects such as math. Occasionally, special projects will require working over the weekend. Parents collaborate with the students to determine how the weekly homework assignments are completed.

Beginning in second grade, students take art as a separate class in the art room. They also work with specialists in Spanish, computers, music/performing arts, and physical education. All second graders participate in service learning, cross-grade activities, and St. Paul’s Buddy Program. For the first time, second graders learn as tutoring buddies to younger kindergartners in reading. Like all other grades, second graders lead Chapel twice each year. Second graders perform at concerts and events with the K-2 Choir. Second graders receive written evaluations of their progress each quarter.

Following is a brief list of content items in the second grade curriculum:

• Reading comprehension and vocabulary development

• Personal narrative writing

• Interactive simulation: pioneer life

• Fractions, mixed numbers, and basic geometry

• Data collection, graphing, and probability

• Penguins

• Plants and seeds

• Digital camera and photo manipulation

• Art projects based on famous artists and their techniques

• Explore rhythm and beat through hand percussion and movement games

• Explore roles of actor, narrator, dancer, choreographer, and director

• Supporting body weight for climbing and hanging