Language Arts
Language arts in second grade is a year of growing in development as a thinking reader. Students grow in their phonemic awareness as they are engaged in a literature rich program. Students will develop strategies that help them grow in comprehension, accuracy, fluency, and vocabulary. Our students are immersed in literacy as they explore authors and become budding authors using a yearlong writing portfolio and reading response journal.
Math
Second grade is a year of exploring and developing an understanding of number patterns. Our students will continue to refine their knowledge and strategies as they work with numbers. Students engage in daily number routines through math meetings. They will develop number stories, problem solving strategies, and grow in their basic math computation strategies for addition, subtraction, and multiplication. As they grow they will be given many opportunities to explore measuring tools, fractions, and enhance their skills by playing a variety of math thinking games.
Science
Students will be introduced to the world of science through the three strands of physical, earth, and life sciences. In physical science they will explore how energy can move and change objects as seen in heat, light, and sound energy. In earth science they will explore weather and the effects of weathering on the earth's surface. Finally, in life science they will explore habitats, animal groups, and the adaptations that living organisms have in order to survive. They will use our science lab to develop a hands-on understanding of scientific concepts and reasoning.
Social Studies
In second grade, the social studies' units are designed to help our students grow in a greater understanding of the global community they are a part of. Students will develop an awareness of their place in the world through map skills and identifying important locations on maps. They will grow in their understanding of how communities have grown, changed, and influenced us from the ancient world of China to the present world we live in. Students explore basic economics as they think about how we earn, spend, and save money. They will also grow in their understanding of how we are citizens of our country, citizens of our global community, and how all citizens must work together to accomplish goals.
Spanish
Exploratory Spanish for second grade students is designed to explore the language and culture of Spain and American Latin countries. Students learn Spanish vocabulary in various units through a traditional classroom setting. Students become aware of the Spanish culture through exploring Spanish customs and Spanish celebrations by participating in classroom games and activities.
Music
The student is given a foundation for basic music literacy and appreciation. Students experience music sequentially through singing, moving, playing, listening and creating. Music concepts explored in second grade include rhythm, melody, harmony, tone color, form and expression. Exposure to a range of music opens us up to how we perceive and perform music.
Art
A yearlong study of the elements of art builds on their base knowledge from kindergarten and first grade. Students will experiment with many different types of mediums such as clay, paint, pencil, oil pastels, and wire. Students will further gain knowledge of different artists and artistic styles.
Computer
Students use up-to-date technology in all aspects of the academic program at all grade levels. Computers are used to reinforce and enrich skills in math, geography, science and language arts. Problem solving and logical thought skills are reinforced through the use of appropriate software. Word processing, graphic and desktop publishing programs are used to design and publish documents.
Library
At Norfolk Collegiate School all students visit the library weekly for selection of books for course work and independent reading. They learn library organization, proper care of books, and age-appropriate library skills.
Physical Education
The students will demonstrate an understanding of movement that fosters cooperation and sportsmanship. The students will be encouraged to give their best effort at all times.