The "3 C's" of Second Grade

Circus - a unit we develop and climax with a field trip to see Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus

Communion - we prepare for the Sacrament of Eucharist

Cursive - the transition of manuscript writing to cursive

Curriculum Highlights
~Religion focuses on two sacraments - Reconciliation in November and Eucharist in the Spring.

~Reading - we use a basal reading series in Second Grade with a flexible grouping program. It includes skill based lessons with emphasis on phonics and grammar; chapter books are strongly recommended for individual reading.

~Our language arts program encourages writing. We teach strategies for beginning writers with the use of a rubric based program. The writing process is taught and applied in everyday usage. Frequent journal writing, daily oral language, and the Young Author's Program supplement our curriculum.

~Spelling - we use a spelling book in addition to our reading series which focuses on the mechanics of spelling words correctly. Each lesson is directed on a particular spelling pattern.

~Handwriting - we use the D'Nealian style method. The first half of the year is spent perfecting manuscript penmanship. Cursive writing is introduced in the second semester.

~Math - skills include building fact families, regrouping in addition and subtraction to prepare for "carrying" and "borrowing", telling time, measuring, money skills highlighted by a simple garage sale to practice the exchange of coins. Problem solving is an important part of our program. Hands-on activities and use of manipulatives are used as much as possible.

~Science - We learn about weather; physical science including solids, liquids, and gasses; Life Science focusing on the interaction of living things. The Scientific method is introduced.

~Social Studies - topics include Pilgrims, Native Americans, holidays, famous Americans, the study of maps, globes, and charts.