A peek into 2nd grade....

Second grade is a year were we see incredible progress in the students' learning. In addition to mathematics, reading and writing, students are working hard to develop skills of listening and speaking. These skills are a part of major curricular changes in recent years which were put in place to ensure that all students graduate from high school with the skills they need to be successful for college and the careers of the future. 

Mrs. Tucci often displays work on an Elmo document camera to "model" as the students follow along.  This supports each student as they learn new concepts. Notice how in math students are now using authentic "real world problems" in story format. They read, write and often draw to help them solve complex word problems. The document cameras were purchased from funds by our Parent Teacher Association.

It is important that students know the goals of what they are learning along with strategies to help them reach those goals. Teachers  post the goals to remind students of the learning targets and to support them as they work their way toward mastery of their goals.

Mrs. Vargas reads aloud to the children stopping along the way for questioning, discussions and critical thinking. Children always enjoy a good story, but the deep comprehension can be challenging. 

 Below the students chart the answers to questions to several stories the children have read.  They can now compare and contrast stories as well. 

 

Children in Ms. Reiser's class take on the author's chair as they become guest authors.  When the children write they are encouraged to use the complex vocabulary words that they have learned. These words are posted throughout the room.  As children listen they give a "thumbs up" when they hear an author use or read a word that they have learned throughout the school year.

 Teachers read with students one on
one to be able to better assess their
individual needs and growth areas.

In the library 2nd graders have time to read books or magazines of their choice. A favorite choice are the variety of comics and graphic novels that our library has to offer.

All that hard work requires a "brain break" every now and then!  The students enjoy a field trip on "Go Noodle" while they try to balance on one foot and answer questions at the same time!

Practicing independently or with a partner is a great way to master skills.  It won't be long before 3rd grade!

Check out a few pictures from the "Father/Daughter Dance" on Friday Night. Beautiful ladies, handsome gentlemen and great music made for a fantastic "date" night for the girls and their dads.