Homework: Homework should be completed in 15 to 20 minutes. If your child
has worked diligently for this time, and is not finished, just jot me a note.
Ongoing homework will always be to practice math facts. Math: Students
should practice addition and subtraction math facts
daily. Practice in the car, or while waiting somewhere. Make it into a
games. We will have a weekly MAD MINUTE test, and each student will keep a
personal graph of his/her math facts progress.
Reading:
Remember, "the more you read, the better you'll read! So, read,
read, read!"
Spelling: Once students learn the spelling rules and exceptions, improved
spelling is seen in their daily work. Words misspelled in student writing
will be recorded under spelling on the agendas. Students may practice these
words which will improve their spelling in their writing. All students will
be expected to master the core priority words for Level 2. I will send home
a copy in September. If you child is ready for the Level 3 words, I will
send that home also.
Writing: We will develop writing skills using our "Empowering Writers'
Program. You can support at home by developing vocabulary, especially
describing words, and elaborating upon a child's sentence when you respond
to him/her. During the winter and spring, we will be focusing upon writing a
narrative piece (character/problem/solution) with a great
beginning, elaborative detail, suspense, a main event, and a
conclusion. Students will use a narrative writing diamond to plan their
piece.
Social Studies: We will be learning about maps.
Science: Our beginning units will be Lights and Shadows, followed by
Recycling.
Handwriting: Correct formation of letters, proper pencil grasp, and neatness
will be emphasized.
Snack: A quick, healthy snack will benefit bodies and minds. Labeled water
bottles are fine, and better than sugary drinks. Slices of fruit, 1/2 of a
fruit, or sliced veggies, and a cheese stick are quick and healthy. Plan a
healthy snack the night before with your child.I always have an apple to
share if someone forgets snack. Students have become very conscious of good
nutrition and reading labels.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS: Your child will be assigned Special Helper of the
Day on his/her birthday. Due to the many concerns about food allergies, we
will not be having food celebrations, although we may do occasional
cooking projects. Your child can create a “Marvelous Me” poster to
share. Look through magazines or other places to find pictures and
words that describe you. Think about these things as you look: What do
you like to do? What do you like to eat? What kinds of stories do you
like? Where have you traveled? What sports do you enjoy playing or
watching? What kind of bike or car would you like to have? What people
to you admire? What would you like to be when you grow up? You can also
include photos of you and your family. Cut out the pictures and glue
them on a sheet of paper or a poster board. You can also draw pictures
and write words. I can laminate it at school for you so you will have
it for a lifetime. Have fun creating!
NATURE DAYS: Several times a month, we will do nature activities outside and
on the nature trail. I will have children write this on their Friday
Learning Links Week In Review. Mondays or Fridays at 2:20 are available for
our nature walks. Please dress children appropriately, and have them wear
sunscreen and repellent, as deemed necessary.
Role Models: The children are watching us and mirroring much of what we do.
Living the values we hope to instill has tremendous impact. Honesty, respect,
responsibility, and caring are emphasized not only at home but at school.
2nd graders are still very impressionable! They are our future.
