Reading - Students use a variety of strategies for reading. They learn to decode unfamiliar words by using phonics, context clues, syllabication and word parts. An equally important component of our reading program is comprehension: vocabulary, literal detail, inference, and main idea are supported through a variety of key comprehension strategies which include predicting, clarifying, questioning, and summarizing.

Instruction is based on the district's identified objectives for 2nd grade. It is implemented through the use of small guided reading groups with the teacher, one-on-one, and whole class instruction. Materials include our district adopted reading series, leveled books, as well as a rich selection of children's literature which includes drama and poetry.

Writing - Writing is integrated throughout the curriculum as students apply the writing process to selected works. An important tool in our writing program is the district adopted "Six Traits of Writing" and Great Source textbook. The Six Traits of Writing is a performance based assessment which identifies a student's strengths in writing as well as areas which need improvement. The six traits are as follows:

1. develop their ideas to include interesting and relevant details

2. organize their writing so that it is clear and has a sense of purpose

3. improve the quality of writing through word choice

4. encourage the use of "voice" so that the writer seems to speak to the audience

5. develop sentence fluency

6. incorporate the use of conventions (grammar, spelling, paragraphs)

Spelling - We are using a word study program to differentiate instruction according to our student's needs. In word study we examine words in order to reveal consistencies within the written language system. Through active exploration, word study teaches students to examine words; and to discover the regularities, patterns, and rules of English orthography needed to read and spell. In addition to word study, students are expected to master the spelling of grade level CORE words. These are the most commonly used words in writing. 2nd graders will learn 100 core words this year. Spelling grades are based on two criteria: test scores and applied spelling (used correctly in everyday writing).

Areas of instruction include building concepts and skills in the following areas: place value to 1,000, money, time, probability, measurement, computation of two and three digit numbers with regrouping for addition and subtraction; algebra readiness, estimation, problem solving, geometry and statistics. Timed math fact quizzes are used to help students achieve automaticity with math facts through 20 for addition and subtraction as well as multiplication facts for 2's, 5's, and 10's.

The scientific thinking process is taught across the curriculum. Students conduct experiments formulating questions, hypothesis, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Investigations include:

Physical Science: The motion of objects can be observed and measured. Exploration of motion will be conducted with balls and ramps. In addition, we investigate what sound is made of and how it moves as well as the attraction of forces through magnets.

Earth Science: Earth is made of materials that have distinct properties and provide resources for human activities. We will investigate the properties of rocks, minerals, and soil to learn about earth's materials and how they are used.

Life Science: Plants and animals have predictable life cycles. Different animals have different life cycles.

People Who Make a Difference: Concepts in civics, economics, history and geography are taught through the following themes:

People Who Supply Our Needs: Focus on the understanding of geography, economics, and the interdependence of people.

Exploring Family Roots: understanding of the many ways in which parents, grandparents, and ancestors have made a difference and develop a sense of history. Example: time lines - personal history

People from Many Cultures, Now and Long Ago: appreciate the importance of individuals from many cultures, now and long ago, who have made a difference for the better in people's lives.

Government: students learn about the institutions and practices of governments in the United States and other countries

A variety of applications are used to help students master skills. Essential technology skills for 2nd grade include information gathering and retrieving; basic word processing skills appropriate to the grade level; and the use of painting and drawing tools for information production and presentation.

Students will participate in skill based group activities that promote good sportsmanship and increase their awareness of the importance of physical fitness.