The second grade program incorporates the constructivist
learning theory into everyday instruction, engaging students in
hands-on, project-based learning. Students are provided with
individualized learning profiles and the Renzulli Learning system
is used both in and out of the classroom to enrich students'
learning experiences. Technology, art, music and P.E. are all
integral components of the second grade program that help provide
students with a well-rounded education.
In language arts, second graders read various texts to enhance
their fluency and use critical thinking skills in making
predictions, inferences, and comparing literature to other pieces
of writing and their own lives. Students study grammar, expand
their vocabulary and practice writing in a variety of genres
including: friendly letters, summary, personal reflection, compare
and contrast, and research narratives.
Second graders engage in hands-on math instruction using
manipulatives and other visual representations to enhance their
understanding of the curriculum. Students expand their knowledge of
place value, practice increasingly complicated computational
skills, explore geometrical properties and make decisions about how
to solve problems.
Social studies is taught in the form of a study hall, giving
students the opportunity to choose their own projects and work
environments through which to apply and develop what they learn in
lessons. Students explore maps, discover the work of important
people of the past and present, differentiate the timing of events
in history and their own lives, learn the basic functions of a
government and examine basic concepts about the economic
system.
In science, second graders explore rocks, plants and insects,
and balance and motion through hands on activities. Students engage
in the scientific method, making predictions, conducting
experiments and recording observations.
Second graders are active participants in their own learning and
are learning to become increasingly independent in both their
academic and social lives. Students are encouraged to resolve their
own conflicts and help create a comfortable classroom environment
in which everyone can thrive.