ILA: READING, WRITING, LISTENING, and SPEAKING
The Scott Foresman anthology series surrounds the students with quality
literature selections as well as trade books.
SPELLING and PHONICS
Students are expected to incorporate any new spelling and phonics skills
covered in class, into their writing. This helps to bridge the gap between
inventive and conventional spelling. Students are highly encouraged to use
inventive spelling when tackling difficult words.
WRITING
The handwriting style taught in second grade is D'Nealian. This style
provides and easier transition to cursive due to the already present slant
in the printing as well as the tails on some of the letters. We write
many creative stories and explore different styles of poetry.
MATH: CONCEPTUAL UNDERSTANDING, SKILL PROFICIENCY, PROBLEM SOLVING, and
COMMUNICATION
The Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley Mathematics text consists of a workbook and
homework book for each student. We also employ hands-on manipulatives,
supplemental games and activities, as well as an abundance of math-connected
literature. Problem solving is stressed and explained using concrete
examples. Emphasis is placed on how math is used in our everyday lives. Upon
completion of second grade, students are expected to be proficient in the
area of addition and subtraction equations through 18 as well as concepts
relating to: money, time, measurement, regrouping, geometry, and fractions.
At year's end multiplication and division basic skills are introduced.
SCIENCE
The Scott Foresman Diamond Edition for science instruction is a program built
on three levels of inquiry: full inquiry, guided inquiry, and directed
inquiry. All three levels engage students in activities that build a strong
science foundation and help students develop a full understanding of the
inquiry process.
SOCIAL STUDIES
The Scott Foresman People and Places series is used for instruction. This
series helps every student become an active, involved, and informed citizen.
It provides systematic instruction to improve comprehension and to reach out
to all learners.
RELIGION
We are all Friends of Jesus! Students continue to grow in their faith using
the We Believe series from Sadlier. This series integrates content that is
faithful to the teachings of the Catholic church. It includes activities and
reflections that involve the students and their families in catechesis,
prayer, and living out their faith. Students celebrate the sacrament of
Reconciliation in March and First Holy Communion in May.
TECHNOLOGY
The computers in the classroom are primarily used to reinforce math,
spelling, and reading skills. This is made more exciting now that we have a
Smart Board! The internet is used in the classroom to go on virtual field
trips, Web quests, video streaming and to explore websites that relate to
units studied during the year.