Foundations of Second Grade

The primary goal of second grade is to cultivate faith in our students as they grow in every aspect of their lives, academically and socially.  As they work in second grade, they should achieve a higher level of independence as learners.
 
Religion
Through the use of Bible stories, the students are taught about God's love, His grace, and His plan for their lives.  The memory verses, which are taught twice a week, correlate with lessons from God's Word.
 
Reading
The goal to be literate, independent, and competent readers is met through the use of daily reading exercises.  Students use two basal readers through the course of the year.  Supplemental literature is also introduced to the students.
 
Accelerated Reader
Students use this computer-based program to independently test their comprehension after completing a book.  Reading levels are determined for each student based on the STAR test.
 
Phonics
This skill of using Phonics is taught and used to enhance their reading fluency and word decoding skills.  Phonics is taught in addition to the reading series.
 
English
The Shurley English Method is used in this grade and continues through eighth grade.  This curriculum highlights conventions of grammar and writing skills.
 
Handwriting
The goal is to improve handwriting skills so that the students' daily work is neater and more legible.
 
Mathematics
Second graders become proficient in knowing addition and subtraction facts and using regrouping in addition and subtraction.  Emphasis is placed on understanding a basic concept of fractions, identifying and counting coins, telling time, understanding measurements and graphs, and using problem solving in all these areas.
 
Social Studies
Students learn about where they live, the earth around them, working together in communities, our country today and in the past, and the people and places in history.  They also learn about the local community government through Junior Achievement.
 
Science
In the area of science, students learn about life science, such as plants and animals, Earth science, such as weather, seasons, and planets, and physical science, such as energy, motion, and sound.  Space and technology science is also touched upon.
 
Computer Proficiency
Computer technology is used to enhance what is learned in all areas of curriculum in the classroom.  They also create their first multi-media presentation using KID PIX.
 
Art
The students are taught the elements of art: line, shape, form, color, value, texture, and space.  They learn how to use and critique these elements in their artwork.
 
Music & Physical Education
These areas are taught by different teachers in their respective fields.
 
Staff
 
Anne Hess
B.S. Concordia University Nebraska
M.S. Indiana University
 
Mary Potter
B.A. Concordia University Chicago