2nd Grade
second Grade Curriculum Overview
Reading/Writing
Students in second grade are expected to read independently to expand their knowledge on topics as they progress their critical thinking skills. Students develop their understanding of the elements of a story such as plot, setting, main idea, details and character. Decoding more complex sentences and making meaning from the text becomes a crucial skill so students can express their thinking in their writing. Students are encouraged to look for evidence and to incorporate that into their writing in all subject areas. Students are expected to write a well-developed five sentence paragraph. Cursive is taught and expected to be used consistently by the end of the year.
Math
In second grade, students master and further their addition and subtraction skills, moving on to learn 2 and 3 digit equations. Students learn how to solve word problems using both addition and subtraction and also multi-step problems. Second graders will have a basic knowledge of the value of coins and how to count money. They will be able to tell time to the minute on both a digital and an analog clock. Students are challenged to think critically to solve problems.
Science
Science is about the many cycles that occur in our world. Students explore the water cycle, life cycles of plants and butterflies, and the lunar cycle as we study the Earth, Moon and Sun in our Solar System. We summarize the life cycle with a field trip to Tryon Creek Nature Park in the spring. Students will explore magnets, how they work and how to create a magnet. STEM projects are integrated through the design and construction of simple structures and then tested to see if they will withstand a minor earthquake.
Social Studies
The second grade social studies curriculum explores different units which help students develop their reading, writing, research, and critical thinking skills as they gain a deeper understanding of history and society and share the new knowledge they learn. The units include citizenship, local leaders and government, learning about the first Thanksgiving with a focus on exploring the differences and similarities between Pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians, map skills, goods and services, U.S. symbols, timelines, and the history of our Parish and School. Teachers use texts, photographs, art, and visitors to help students learn about these units through different types of media and from different perspectives.
Religion
Rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ as well as the teachings and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church, St. Pius X School seeks to foster in students' knowledge, respect and reverence for self, others, God, and God's creations. Students begin each day in prayer and pray throughout the day and Mass is celebrated weekly. The study of the Catholic faith is designed to inspire spirituality, critical thinking, prayer, compassion, and to live as Disciples of Christ.