Second Grade

Mrs. Maxwell

In 2nd grade we learn:

In Religion- The focus of 2^nd grade Religion is our sacramental preparations.  This is a big year for us as we study our catholic faith to become closer to God by receiving the gifts of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist.  We also look at the lives of saints and holy people as examples for us as we strive to be saints ourselves.

In Mathematics- We build our number sense by being able to read, write, and sequence numerals up to 100.  Through various strategies, we will solve addition and subtraction problems using one- and two-digit numbers.  We will also collect information and display it in a graph or chart.  Our measurement skills will be practiced by telling time to the minute on analog and digital clocks, by using the calendar to solve problems, by measuring to the nearest foot or inch, and by knowing the value of a collection of coins up to $1.00.  Above all we build our math confidence by applying skills to everyday life situations.

In Language Arts- Reading & Phonics:  We use Saxon phonic cues to sound out unknown words as we read, then use different strategies to comprehend what we’ve read.  We work on identifying the major literary elements of character, setting, plot, conflict, resolution, main ideas, and supporting details. Likewise we will read and understand parts of informational (nonfiction) texts. Accelerated Reading (AR) is used as a reading incentive throughout the year.

In Writing: The writing process and the 6 traits of writing are used to help us to create paragraphs, letters, short stories, and poems.  When writing we will use correct conventions such as complete sentences with punctuation and correct spelling consistently.  We will also be able to summarize ideas, support conclusions, and restate information in all subject areas.

In Speaking & Listening: We will follow three- and four-step directions, expand our speaking vocabulary, use proper grammar in oral communication, ask appropriate questions, and participate in declam presenting a poem using body movements, facial expressions, voice, tone, and volume.

In Science- The scientific thinking skills of observing, communicating, classifying, and comparing, will be practiced as studying about living and nonliving objects, properties of matter, forces effect on motion, weather patterns, properties of sounds, effects of magnets, extinct animals, like dinosaurs, and our basic solar system.  Investigations will be done each unit, illustrations and diagrams will be created to show ideas, and technology will support our lessons.
        We also review choices to develop a physically, socially, and emotionally healthy life. We’ll explain the functions of the basic body systems and understand how personal hygiene, like brushing teeth and regular exams, affects health.  The importance of safety procedures in the school, home, and community will be discussed.  Role-plays on how to handle situations by dealing with feelings and making appropriate reactions will be practiced. 

In Social Studies- Using basic map skills we are able to design a classroom map, read simple maps and globes, and locate places throughout the world.  Each day on our morning board, we find states in United States and countries on the 7 continents.
         We also look at the needs of our selves, families, and communities and how we affect one another.  Junior Achievement helps us see the purpose of our government and the role of its leaders. In the lessons, we discuss our responsibilities as citizens and how decisions and resources effect local economies. 
        Throughout the year we practice putting important historical events in chronological order, we study contributions of historical figures, and we compare ways different cultures celebrate holidays and recognize similarities with us. A few holidays that we celebrate are Christmas, Epiphany, Chinese New Year, and Mardi Gras, along with Catholic Feast days and Holy Days. The Character Counts pillars are also introduced.

Email Mrs. Maxwell at pmaxwell@sfcss.org