Here is a little about what we will be learning and doing this year.

 

CORE LITERACY

We use the Journey's Reading Series at the Primary School. Each week will focus on a target reading skill and will have a specific phonics skill to practice. There will be daily literacy homework and weekly Think Central Reading assignments. Think Central assignments are posted online and the students have three nights to work on it.

 

 

CORE MATH

We follow the Investigations Math Program by Scott Foresman. The focus of instruction is on mathematical thinking and reasoning. Investigations is based on research about what we now know about how children learn mathematics and is carefully designed to invite all students to jump into math! Children use their prior knowledge to make sense and develop an understanding of fundamental mathematical ideas. Along with a growing curriculum will come continued practice we our math facts. It is very important that the students master their addition and subtraction facts by the end of their second grade year. I ask that you take the time to practice "math facts" at home on a daily basis :) The students will also be engaged in daily Tier Math Groups.

 

 

WRITING WORKSHOP

This year in writing workshop the students will learn a variety of writing pieces. We will be composing pieces such as personal narratives, informative, descriptive, and persuasive writings. Along our journey we will also take time to write about things that we are learning. The students will keep a notebook that will become their "Writer's Notebook". This personalized book will serve as a blank slate for the students to grow as writers.It will also make a great memory piece from some of their second grade successes!The students will be involved in our writing workshop every day for about 30 minutes. I feel strongly that the connection between reading and writing transfers into more literate students. During this time, students will work independently on self-selected writing, while I conference with students and deliver lessons to them based on their specific writing needs. Mini-lessons will focus on content, organization, voice/style, and conventions. Did you know my class was featured in an educational training video for teachers with Dr. Dorfman? Check out "Writing with Mentors" that is available through Stenhouse Publishers.

 

HANDWRITINGThis year in second grade we will be using the HANDWRITING WITHOUT TEARS program. This is a strong, developmentally-based curriculum. The program uses Music and Multisensory materials to engage children and develop their writing skills.

 

 

SCIENCE - Our science program will help the students to develop the skills needed to become observers, information seekers, and problem solvers. Our kits will consist of units designed to allow children to explore and inquire. There will be one project to be completed at home that the students will be responsible for completing. This project will be shared with the class.

 

 

 

SOCIAL STUDIES - Our social studies program will be centered on the similarities and differences between communities: urban, suburban, and rural. Students will also learn map skills and become familiar with laws and rules of government. The students will also become familiar with state facts about Pennsylvania.