Christ be our Light...through C.L.O.V.E.R.

Welcome to Mrs. Strahle's second grade blog page!

Second grade is full of fun, learning, and adventure.  This is the year where students prepare for and receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion.  Students are also introduced to cursive handwriting and online programs and resources.

Expectations for your child in second grade:  

Religion:  The second grade religion curriculum is very special.  We focus on the parts of the Mass, Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist.  We participate in the school liturgies.  There will be parish meetings concerning Reconciliation and First Communion later on in the school year.  Please look for the notices in the church bulletin.

Handwriting:  During the first semester we will focus on manuscript handwriting, then introduce cursive. Please do not encourage your child to use cursive until it has been introduced in the classroom.

Language Arts: The class will be using two readers as well as various trade books.  All selections are authentic literature.  Worksheets, quizzes, class participation, and individual conferences with the teacher will be used in assessing your child’s progress.  There will also be a test at the end of each unit.  English will be taught as part of the language arts program.  You may often see a separate English grade given on another content area assignment.

Phonics:  We will be using the Saxon Phonics program.  This program focuses on teaching phonics rules.  All work will be completed in class.

Spelling: Tests will correlate with the phonics program.  There will be a pre-test. If your child scores a 100% on the pre-test, he/she will be given a list of challenging words for Friday’s test. The two scores will be averaged for the grade book. If your child doesn’t score a 100% on the pretest, he/she will practice that list for Friday’s test. Friday’s test score will be entered in the grade book.

Math:  The math standards cover a wide range of skills.  We will focus a lot on number sense, computation, geometry, measurement, problem solving, and algebra & functions. We use a variety of methods to meet these standards, such as the daily calendar, use manipulatives, and small group and whole group activities. We also practice math facts throughout each week.

Science:  The science program includes the physical and earth sciences.  The units will include activities, experiments and literature that correlate with the topic.  A general study guide will be sent home several days before each test.

 Social Studies: The focus of the second grade social studies is “About My Community”.  The class will learn about belonging to different groups, working together in a community, being a good citizen, and different cultures.  I will send home a study guide before each test. 

 I will keep you posted of your child’s progress in all subject areas throughout the year via notes, phone calls, conferences, and report cards. You can access your child’s grades through PowerSchool.