Students begin to read independently for
longer periods of time and work to become fluent and expressive readers. Stories are
analyzed for the elements of literature such as character, setting, and plot.
Lessons strengthen interpretive skills, generalizing abilities and inferential
thinking. Phonics instruction continues in order to develop word attack skills for
decoding new words. Vocabulary and spelling are taught within the context of
literature. Enrichment activities are included to foster a life-long lover of
literature.
In the second grade, students learn
fluency of writing -- getting their thoughts on paper. Grammar and punctuation
skills are developed through writing assignments including short stories, research topics,
poems, letters, and book reports. Writing is shared orally within the class and
displayed in the hallways.
Students continue to refine their
manuscript printing skills. Special emphasis is given to correct letter formation
and proper spacing of letters and words.
During weekly visits to the library,
students select books according to title, author, and illustrator for independent reading
times. Students are introduced to the card catalog as well as the dictionary, in
print and CD-ROM. Books are read to the students.
Students learn a wide range of
mathematical concepts, reinforcing and building on the concepts they already have.
Manipulatives are used to gain a concrete understanding of new concepts such as: place
value, addition and subtraction facts to 18 including regrouping, time, graphing,
symmetry, fractions, probability, classifying, measurement, and problem solving.
Understanding that the best way to learn
science is to do science, students record observations made when studying nature.
They investigate plant and animal life, fossils, seasonal changes, life cycles of various
organisms, states of matter, weather, and the water cycle.
Studies expand the students' understanding
of the community. Our city of Fort Wayne is studied to discover the inter-dependence
of its population with the natural environment.
In geography, students learn to recognize
cardinal directions, map symbols, land and water forms, and distinctions among urban,
suburban, and rural areas. Literature is used to bring history to life through words
and pictures.
Students celebrate their friendship with
Jesus and their membership in the parish community as they prepare for the sacraments of
Reconciliation and Eucharist. Students are guided to experience the love and
presence of Jesus through prayer. Students learn to show love for others in
concrete ways, thank God for our gifts, understand the true qualities of friendship, the
blessings of family, and generosity. Special focus is given to the church seasons
of Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter. Religion classes also focus on strengthening
awareness of the handicapped, elderly, and the concepts of prejudice and peace.
Lessons are conveyed through storytelling, role playing, discussion, games, and art
activities. Students attend Mass twice a week.
Emphasis is placed on continuing to work
on word processing skills. With exposure to a variety of software, students often
explore word processing and multimedia. Awareness of computer and software use and
maintenance continues. Through the use of word processing and visual art software,
students expand on their writing and editing skills.
The second grade community strives to
create an atmosphere of trust, honesty, and mutual respect among students, teachers, and
parents. These qualities promote academic growth as well as moral strength and
self-discipline.
Art is taught using Discipline Based Art
Education (DBAE) which includes art history, art production, development of the ability to
describe and express your own feelings about a piece of art, development of the ability to
criticize a piece of art constructively. Each grade level "scaffolds" or
builds on the grade level before it. Vocabulary and techniques used increase in
difficulty with the cognitive abilities of that grade level.
In grade two, students produce new
projects reinforcing the art theories and techniques introduced in grade one: perspective,
color, shading, texture, 2-D art, 3-D art, line, and painting techniques.
Lessons build on theory and composers
learned in grade one. This level includes study of simple meter, basic note values,
ABA form, tone color, shape of melodies, and addition of a new composer.
Activities are planned to help children
achieve their full capacity through physical fitness and motor skills. Health is
emphasized as a life value which enhances critical thinking, decision making, problem
solving, and behavior skills.
