1. The second grade social studies program is designed to be an integral part of the reading
curriculum, using both fiction and non-fiction texts to teach the children. Geography and map
skills are woven into each unit of study, and connections are made between the topics’ historical
contributions to present day society. We explore different cultures, countries and continents to
enhance our knowledge and awareness of diversity. Seasonal units include holidays around the
world, family heritage and traditions, folktales around the world, biographies of famous people
who made a positive difference in our world and ways humans impact their natural environments,
both positively and negatively.
To support current events, we subscribe to the following children’s magazines to highlight events
throughout our country and world: Time for Kids, National Geographic Explorer, and Scholastic
Weekly Reader. They provides a global view of the major issues, therefore it’s a source for
discussion groups, and an opportunity for our children to be “informed” in the content areas.
The goal of the second grade science program is to develop curiosity, interest and appreciation
through experimentation, as well as individual and group projects both in the classroom and
through weekly visits to the Seaman Family Discovery Center. We will observe, compare, organize
the results of our inquiries, and communicate both orally and in writing the things we discover.
These processes (observing, communicating, comparing, and organizing) are the basic thinking
processes students need at this age to develop a scientific understanding of the world around
them.
The following topics are presented through integrated units:
Life Sciences: nutrition/health, animals
Earth Science: conservation, habitats
Physical Science: matter, scientific process
Of course, our science related field trips compliment our units of study to enhance the learning
process for your child!
Contact your child's teacher if you have any questions. Thank you in advance for your support!
SOC IAL ST UDIES & SCIEN CE
AN IN T EGRA T ED APPR OAC H