LanGuaGe Arts CURRICULUM
Grade 2
Spelling & Vocabulary
The student’s work continues as their vocabulary becomes more complex. In addition to understanding the definition of words, they continue to learn to identify antonyms, synonyms and homonyms; to identify base words and their plurals, -ed and –ing forms; and to identify the relevant meaning for a word with multiple meanings (i.e. saw/saw). Students begin to learn how to use a thesaurus/dictionary.
Grammar
By the end of second grade, the students are expected to have mastered, the ability to capitalize names and places, and the beginnings of sentences. They are also expected to have mastered the usage of punctuation in print: periods, commas, question marks and exclamation marks.
written & oral expression
Each week, students are introduced to a new set of vocabulary words. Not only do the children learn the correct spelling and meanings of these words, but they also use them in context through their compositions.
To integrate the students’ knowledge of spelling, grammar, and different methods of written communications, they write a weekly composition. These compositions also introduce the children to the skills necessary to write personal narratives, descriptive paragraphs and friendly letters. Handwriting and the importance of neatness are stressed at this time also.
Oral presentation is important activity for young students. It allows them to practice expressing themselves clearly and in a concise manner to others, as well as, introducing them to public speaking. The students orally present their compositions to their classmates. Eye contact, proper place, adequate volume, the use of vocal expression and clear pronunciation are covered.
literacy
Reading comprehension
Students are expected to retell a main event from a story heard or read; to answer questions about the important characters, plot, setting and events; to make predictions about what will happen next. The students will be able to explain if these predictions are confirmed or disproved and why.
LITERATURE
We use an extensive collection of trade (paperback) books including novels by Beverly Cleary, E. B. White, and Rold Dahl, etc. We also use and anthology of short stories written by Donna Alverman.
Children read a new storybook and/or reader every week. Second grade is an ideal level to in still in the children’s love for independent reading that will last them a lifetime.