Project Work Presentations are frequently prepared and given to various audiences as a culmination of project work. These presentations come in many formats. Social Studies Project Approach learning drives the social studies curriculum in second grade. Students record prior knowledge by documenting what they think they know about a topic. Strategies are used to help students develop questions about what they want to know and beginning research skills are taught to investigate the questions. Topics vary year to year based upon the interests of the students. In recent years the students have investigated: • School community • Holidays, cultures, and traditions • Types of communities (rural, urban, suburban) • Where we are in the world (city, state, nation) Second grade geography work focuses on “Changes,” allowing students to learn how the world changes over time. Students will focus on learning how technology shows geographical changes to better understand what our surroundings were like long ago in order to learn how the environment is changing and the impact that people have had in the United States. Using Nystrom’s Encompass program, which focuses on hands-on geography to increase engagement, students will work cooperatively and analyze primary and secondary sources in order to explore our world. Music Musical ideas grow more complex as students learn to notate diatonic melodies on the treble clef staff. Students practice layering complimentary independent rhythmic patterns with percussion instruments. Students explore how contrast can be used to add interest and complexity to creative work. Physical Education The second grade physical education program offers a diverse range of activities designed to develop well-rounded student-athletes. Students focus on mastering fundamental skills like throwing, catching, striking, kicking, and dribbling, preparing them for participation in various sports. Students refine their locomotor skills – running, jumping, skipping, sliding – and conquer challenging obstacle courses that test their agility and balance. Students are then introduced to different games and activities that promote teamwork and sportsmanship both in the gymnasium and on the school’s eight turf fields.
Students also practice jump rope routines, master basic stunts and tumbling routines, and explore and practice on the Cook Road gymnasium’s rock climbing wall and ladder challenges. Students utilize the expansive facilities at our disposal. Students also continue to develop their ice skating skills through lessons on the ice at the McCann Ice Arena. Science Second graders work on planning and simple investigations. They work on measurements using tools, such as rulers to collect information, classify and sequence objects and events, and identify patterns. Experiences and topics in the classroom are guided by student interest. The curriculum builds on the skills of the prior grade and is developed through inquiry-based learning that involves projects and hands-on activities. First Lego League Explore continues in second grade. This program introduces science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) to children through authentic learning. Participants gain real-world problem solving experience through a guided, global robotics program, helping today’s students and teachers build a better future together. This level focuses on the fundamentals of engineering and the exploration of real-world issues. Students learn to design, code, and create solutions with the use of Lego robotics. Visual Art Art studio time is longer in second grade, lending itself to more in depth, multi-step projects. Students continue to expand their knowledge of art techniques and art materials. Students study self-portraiture, explore an introduction to the color wheel, and practice using organic and geometric shapes through projects. A second grade project might include, but is not limited to, a self-portrait drawing using pattern and design elements to personalize it. Built to Thrive The Built to Thrive program meets twice a month for all second grade students. This program enhances social-emotional intelligence through literature, play, and reflection. Built to Thrive provides thoughtful activities to practice students’ social-emotional learning, develop empathy for others, and practice problem-solving skills. Children also work on identifying and managing their own and others’ emotions.
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Lower School | Second Grade
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