Reading: Quality literature provides the foundation of the second-grade reading program. We follow The Teachers College Reading Workshop model of instruction. Children read a wide range of genres at their Just-Right Level. Components of Reading include: reading aloud by the teacher, shared reading, and guided reading. Instruction is provided in whole and small-groups, as well as individually

Writing: In Writing Workshop, children are taught the craft of writing by following the writing process. They learn to write independently, revise their pieces for an audience, and edit them for publication. Each lesson begins with a short, whole-class mini-lesson, followed by individual conferences and strategy group instruction. The students learn to set goals for themselves to improve their writing and celebrate their growth at the end of each unit. Our writing units focus on narrative, informational, opinion, and poetry writing.

Word Study: We follow the Words Their Way program that teaches students phonics, spelling, and vocabulary. This approach to Word Study encourages students to look closely at words to discover the regularities and conventions of written English needed to read and spell. Students are introduced to new sounds and spelling patterns and then study these words in a variety of ways using multi-sensory strategies. Sorting activities, word hunts, and vocabulary tasks are designed to build up each child’s understanding of words and their meanings. Red Words are also explored through differentiated activities.

Grammar: Through shared reading and interactive writing lessons, as well as other experiences throughout the day, the students learn grammar and other language arts skills needed to understand how words are used. We work on applying these foundational skills during Writing Workshop and other content areas.

Math: Second graders continue to use the Everyday Mathematics program from kindergarten and first grade. Games and manipulatives are an integral part of the hands-on curriculum. Within each strand of the mathematics program, children have many experiences in a wide variety of contexts which enable them to construct knowledge.

Science: Our Science program focuses on interactive science instruction that promotes analysis and interpretation of data, critical thinking, problem-solving, and connections across science disciplines. The units studied include the Structure and Properties of Matter, Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems, and Processes that Shape the Earth. STEM education is woven into all of the science units. Students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to understand how the physical world operates.

Social Studies: Second graders learn about the past to help them understand the present, and change the future. The second-grade curriculum introduces students to the field of history by examining a wide range of topics, including indigenous people, changemakers, and local government. These broad subjects are presented to students as an entry point to learn about the earliest period in American history. Moreover, students understand that these three topics are relevant to America today and the future when investigated through an interdisciplinary lens.

Community Circle: Community Circle provides a daily opportunity to bring the class together as one. In this forum, discussion is encouraged on a variety of topics that foster community, connection, and unity. Each month the school focuses on a Star Power Word that can be incorporated into the Community Circle discussions as a source for social emotional learning. Other topics for discussion can stem from current classroom issues for problem solving, current events, and other ideas stemming from student interest. The ultimate goal of Community Circle is to form connections among students and staff that provide a sense of belonging.

Reynolds Elementary School

2nd Grade

Balanced Literacy

Mathematics

Science

Social Studies

World Languages

Technology

Open Circle

Health

Physical Education

Performing Arts

Art