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The second grade program completes the primary continuum. It builds upon previous learning experiences and offers a combination of classroom management techniques. While there are learning centers in classrooms, there are also times when there are whole-class lessons, various cooperative grouping configurations and individual instruction. The language arts block, set aside for second graders, extends from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. each day. Reading is focused on during the first hour. Children work in the setting (classroom, reading center, reading enrichment or resource room) determined to be best for meeting their needs. Placement is reviewed on a regular basis. Changes are made whenever it is determined necessary. Second graders are introduced to a variety of genres. They read biographies, historical fiction, fairy tales, fiction, etc. In addition to word attack skills, understanding characters, plot, setting, and sequence is emphasized. The works of the authors and illustrators Patricia Polacco and Tomie dePaola are read and discussed in detail. During the latter half of the morning children concentrate on writing skills, including word study skills. Topics for writing are often chosen by the child. The writing workshop model is followed. This includes a mini-lesson given by the teacher, private writing and conferencing time, and sharing with the group on a voluntary basis. Once again there is a block of time set aside for second graders. It runs from 1:15-2:15 p.m. The program published by Silver Burdett is used to meet the basic math curriculum. It is supplemented with review and enrichment activities to meet individual needs. A variety of manipulatives is used to develop concepts and understanding. Topics include graphing, patterns, numeration, number facts, doubles, missing addends, geometry (including 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional shapes,) place value, 2-digit addition and subtraction with regrouping, telling time on a face and digital clock, counting money up to $9.99, introduction to multiplication, fractions, measurement and word problems. Pumpkin Math Day at the end of October and the annual Math Fair Day in June are major events which allow math skills to be put to use. The program in grade 2 includes studies in life and physical sciences. The children are involved with investigations around the concept of air, sink or float and observing the growth of tadpoles. Air Fair Day is another special event for second graders. The study of urban, rural and suburban communities is central to the social studies program. Through the study of Community, children learn that they are part of many different communities, all of which change over time. Field trips that support these concepts include local visits to Cliffdale Farm and Van Cortlandt Manor, and a day at Museum Village. Within the structure of each classroom, children are encouraged to identify rights and responsibilities of students, teachers and staff in the school community. Rules protect individual rights. This leads to awareness of and appreciation for different cultural/ethnic backgrounds. The study of present day culture and current events is enhanced through the use of "Time for Kids". Special consideration is given to the history behind the celebration of Thanksgiving and the life and contributions of Abraham Lincoln.
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