Second graders build on a myriad of skills that were
acquired in first grade. Reading skills continue to develop along with
a strong emphasis on fluency and comprehension skills. We strongly
encourage students to read aloud to an adult for at least fifteen
minutes a day to strengthen these critical skills. Students are
learning how to gather information and how to communicate that
information through a variety of formats. Our beautiful library
environment strongly motivates our second graders to develop a life
long love of reading. Many students delight in discovering a
particular author and reading an entire series!
Mathematic skills rely on many hands-on activities
along with a multitude of problem solving techniques. Students should
master both addition and subtraction facts. Parents are encouraged to
use flash cards for at least 10 minutes a day to help students know
their facts. Second graders also love to show off their skills of
collecting and displaying data in a variety of ways.
Second graders are natural scientists and are
enthralled to examine all aspects of science. With magnifying glasses in
hand and developing observation skills, students learn about the life
cycles of organisms, the rocks and soil of our planet and how to
classify everyday objects. A variety of hands-on activities encourage our second graders to discover information and boldly test their own
ideas.
A beginning understanding of our political process is
developed throughout our social studies curriculum. Concepts of community
and people in the community are reinforced and students are exposed to
basic economic elements found in their communities. Learning about our
country, our leaders and the democratic process is an exciting element
of our program.
Second graders have a full day with Music, PE,
Computer and Library skills. Special programs such as Operation Aware
and the Tulsa Ballet program make second grade an exciting learning
environment throughout the year.
*
Second graders
are
sensitive to personal criticism andare
learning how to accept failure. Concentrate on your child's successes
and teach him/her how to learn from criticism. Ask them, "Can you
learn how to do it differently next time?"
*
Second graders tend to release tension
through physical activity. For example, children
may be extremely active when tired. Adults need to
encourage quiet play (board games, painting, puzzles) before bedtime
or when children are overly tired.
*
Second graders have a strong desire for
the affection and attention of parents. There is much "reporting" of
activities to family. Parents need to set aside time specifically to
listen and talk to children with no interruptions
* A
positive self-concept continues to develop with successful experiences.
You can help your children celebrate his/her positive achievements.
*
Second graders
begin to learn the
value of "work." They need regular, realistic chores at home and school.
Charts with pictures to check-off chores help children remember what to
do.
