Language Arts

The second grade language arts program emphasizes the development of fluency in reading, writing and speaking. The Guided Reading method is the basis of the reading program using a variety of literary genres supplemented by library books and internet sites.  Comprehension and critical thinking are emphasized focusing on main idea, plot, character development and setting.  Creative writing is taught and encouraged in many genres throughout the curriculum.  The mechanics of writing, cursive handwriting and Scientific Spelling, a phonetically based spelling program, are taught throughout the year.

Math

The basic strands of math identified by the National Council of Teachers of Math (NCTM) are taught through practical hands-on experiences and cooperative problem solving.  The strands are: number (addition, subtraction, multiplication concepts and division concepts), geometry, probability and statistics, logic, fractions, and measurement of time, money, temperature, length, perimeter, area, weight and capacity.  Addition and subtraction of two and three digit numerals with and without regrouping is taught.  Games, calculators, computer exercises and journal writing expand and help clarify understanding.

Science

Units in Life Science, Earth Science, and Physical Science provide a framework for the following process skills: observation, investigation, collection of data, prediction and inference.  Studying bats, spiders, snakes, growth, habitat, and habits of mammals and birds highlights our earth's ecosystem.  Native Texas birds are studied in their woodland or wetland setting.  The water cycle, weather, energy, and nutrition are taught.

Social Studies

Social Studies in second grade focus on the study of cultures.  Through a study of Ancient Egypt, Colonial America and family histories the students have the opportunity to contrast, compare, and appreciate diversity. Basic map skills include cardinal and intermediate directions, use of maps and globes, and the identification of continents and oceans in relationship to each other.

Religion

The main objective of the second grade religion program is to enable the students to appreciate their membership in the Christian community and to prepare the students to participate in the sacramental life of the Church.  The person of Jesus is presented through Scripture stories.  The students have the opportunity to internalize their knowledge of Jesus through role-playing, illustrating and praying about his life on earth. Second Grade is the time, usually, when the Catholic students receive the sacrament of Reconciliation and First Eucharist.  It is the ruling of the Bishop that these students receive their instructions for these sacraments from their parents with the assistance of their parishes.  The students then receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist at their individual parishes during the second grade year.  Non-Catholic students are encouraged to share their beliefs and faith traditions within the framework of the religion program.

The sexuality and family life section is based on an age appropriate theme. The curriculum is based on, "The Incarnation".