Second Grade
Second Grade invites children to deepen their curiosity and independence as learners. Through hands-on discovery in both literacy and math, science, and social studies, they classify materials and explore how objects are made, investigate sunlight, plants, and pollination in the garden, and compare life across diverse habitats. Students also study bodies of water and erosion, building connections between the natural world and their own sense of place. Along the way, their voices are celebrated, their whole selves are nurtured, and their growing responsibility to community is woven into every experience.
About Second Grade
In our second-grade classroom, we focus on direct and explicit phonics instruction using the Orton-Gillingham approach, which is tailored to meet the needs of all students. This multi-sensory method helps children grasp foundational reading skills through structured, systematic lessons. To ensure that each student receives targeted instruction, tier groups are implemented based on their individual needs, providing differentiated support where necessary.
Beyond phonics, students engage in literature circles and book reports, fostering a love for reading and critical thinking. Through read-alouds and independent reading, children explore a wide range of genres, enhancing their comprehension and expanding their literary horizons.
Our writing time offers a guided yet open-ended experience. We provide direct instruction in the writing process, walking students through planning, drafting, revising, and editing. However, students are encouraged to explore their own passions within this framework. Whether writing stories, reports, or creative pieces, they learn to express their ideas while mastering different writing formats. This balanced approach empowers them to become confident, independent writers.
We dive deep into science and social studies through child-led learning, where students’ interests and passions guide the topics we explore. This approach allows students to take ownership of their learning and engage with subjects that resonate with them. One of our key responsibilities is managing the school garden, where we explore the importance of food and where it comes from. The garden serves as a hands-on learning experience, and we incorporate this into our weekly kitchen sessions, where students cook with produce they’ve helped grow, connecting farm-to-table concepts.
Beyond academic learning, we place a strong emphasis on social-emotional development. Through dedicated lessons, we help students navigate their emotions, fostering skills in conflict resolution and emotional regulation. This holistic approach ensures that students not only excel academically but also grow in their ability to understand themselves and relate positively to others.
The students work on various language arts skills, including phonics, grammar, and persuasive writing. They practice identifying different sounds and spellings, learn about transition words to enhance their writing flow, all while practicing writing memoirs/narrative, friendly letters, opinion, informational, how-to, fictional (fairytale/folktale,) and poetry.
The class is taught through a tiered instruction model to meet every child where they are. These activities aim to strengthen their language and writing abilities.
In addition to the traditional subject areas, students participate in fine arts, physical education, foreign language, drama, Spanish, and technology classes. An emphasis on the fine arts has been a part of the school since its inception. Biweekly classes in art and music are highlights in the children’s experiences. Daily physical education classes enhance physical development. Children learn to use both the library and the computer as valuable resources for information.
In math, the students delve into concepts of measuring, building a strong number sense, build upon regrouping, and place value. They engage in hands-on activities like building catapults from popsicle sticks and launching mini marshmallows to test their contraptions. These experiences allow them to apply their knowledge of fractions and measurement while having fun and fostering collaboration.
Character development instruction highlighting respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship complements the academic offerings. Each teacher weaves this special program into the class’s regular curriculum.
Deep Dive topics are ever changing and can cover different areas of study similar to the following:
Physical Science | Classify materials by observation for purpose; heating and cooling Discover how objects are made |
Life Science | Investigate plants needing sunlight and the process of pollination compare the diversity of life in different habitats |
Earth and Space | Bodies of water, erosion |
Second Grade Teachers & Staff
Laura Demarest
Second Grade
Tylar McGhee
Second Grade
