Second Graders develop fluency and expression Inshallah, as they become solid readers. We focus on rich literature and will read from a wide genres including realistic and non-fiction, biographies, folk tales, fables, fantasy, and poetry. We encourage daily independent reading in school and at home. Our main goal is to stimulate interest in books and to foster love for reading. In addition to this, we use Houghton Mifflin and McGraw Hill reading series. We will read books from the library including Busy Body Nora by Johanna Hurwitz, Charlotte’s Web by E.B White, and Hemlock Mountain by Alice Dalgliesh.  

 Reading and Language Arts

We have an integrated Social Studies and Reading program. We will read several books about famous Americans and inventors. For example: Benjamin Franklin and Martin Luther King Jr.

Second Graders will continue to develop understanding of phonics and word attack skills. They will also learn to develop their comprehension skills. Second Graders will focus on fluency and accuracy in writing. They will continue to the writing process taught in First Grade (brainstorm, outline or web, rough draft, edit and final draft.) Some of their writing will include letters, business letters, journal entries, poetry and personal narratives. Students will have a chance to “peer edit” and share their writing with others. Writing is incorporated into all subjects in the curriculum (eg. Science, Math, Health, and Social Studies.)

Second Graders will have weekly spelling lists based on the patterns reviewed in class. They will work on cursive handwriting. Students have to focus on neatness. Cursive handwriting develops through repetition and practice both at home and school.

Mathematics

We will explore Math using a variety of manipulators and materials. We will use graphic organizers to work out and understand math problems. Students will learn to “Write for Math” and make regular entries in their Math journals. Regular assessments and practice will help the students develop speed and accuracy in solving math problems. We focus on addition and subtraction of larger numbers with regrouping, but we will revisit and practice the basic addition and subtractions facts. Our math program includes Geometry, fractions, money concepts, time and measurements. We will also practice analyzing and solving word problems.

Social Studies

In Social Studies, we will learn about different groups of people, including Native Americans. Students will explore the concept of community. We will study about a community of long ago. “A Roman Villa” by Jacqueline Morley and John James, published by McGraw Hill, is the book we will use to study about life in Ancient Rome. Social Studies curriculum includes the study of Geographic features, cultural similarities and differences. We will read biographies to learn about important people, places and events in our history. In the geography segment in social studies, we will use five themes- location, place, human/environment interaction, movement and regions. One of the projects will include designing their own classroom quilt.

Students will examine life within and outside their own community and culture so that they can understand diversity. Students are encouraged to use their analytical and critical thinking skills to nurture good citizenship and respect for others.

Science

The Second Graders Science program will include units on Animal Classification, life cycle of different animals, light and color, volcanoes and earthquakes, electricity, fossils, simple machines, and more detailed study about plants. We will also include topics based on student interest.

We will do experiments in class. Students will learn to observe and record their findings. They will learn to predict by making inferences. We will use the computer and other resources to do research on science topics.

Health

Students will learn that individuals are responsible for their own personal safety and also learn simple first aid techniques. They will develop regular habits for a balanced program in cleanliness and well being. They will recognize ways in which diseases are transmitted. Social skills for developing relationships will also be included in our health program.

Physical Education

Students will practice safety skills in the gym and on the playground. During recess time, students will do activities that will refine body management and locomotor skills. Our students are enrolled in physical activity sessions at the YMCA in Schaumburg. Students enjoy swimming, T-Ball, basketball, and other sports at YMCA.