Our program is designed to nurture young learners as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Through a dynamic and integrated curriculum, second graders explore core subjects like reading and language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, and the arts, building a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

 

Second grade emphasizes vocabulary development, story outcomes, comprehension, themes, messages, and author's style. Using strategies from the Teachers College Reading and Writing Project (TCRWP), students receive reading practice, engage in writing workshop, and explore various genres to develop their reading and writing skills. 95 Percent Phonics supports phonemic awareness and decoding, helping students develop the foundational skills needed to read and write with fluency. Writing instruction is grounded in the TCRWP and focuses on developing narrative, expository, and persuasive writing. Grammar exercises further enhance language mechanics and conventions.

 

Second grade utilizes Math Expressions curriculum which emphasizes operations, critical thinking skills, problem-solving strategies, estimation, data collection, statistics, geometry, and probability. Interactive lessons incorporate hands-on activities and teacher-designed games, with a focus on building a strong mathematical foundation. OUSD support and enrichment materials further reinforce math skills and ensure that all learners are supported.

 

Science instruction is driven by FOSS Kits and teacher-designed units that encourage inquiry-based learning. Students explore topics in the life, physical, and earth sciences through experiments and investigations, sparking curiosity and scientific thinking. These hands-on experiences foster a deeper understanding of the world around them.

 

The InquirED social studies curriculum focuses on inquiry-based learning, helping students explore concepts such as social responsibility, cooperation, geographic awareness, and cultural diversity. Texts, literature, music, and food are used to bring social studies concepts to life, and classroom organization fosters responsibility and community pride. Second grade supports the school-wide emphasis on character education, focusing on five different themes that help build empathy, respect, and community awareness.

 

The Second Step Character Education Program is a key part of second grade, helping students develop emotional awareness, empathy, and problem-solving skills. Through structured lessons, children learn to manage their emotions, resolve conflicts, and build positive relationships with others.

 

Students spend forty minutes each week with an art specialist, engaging in creative projects that correspond with other areas of the curriculum. These activities foster creativity while reinforcing themes in science, social studies, and language arts.

 

Second graders enjoy a half-hour of music instruction each week with a specialist, exploring vocal music, rhythm, and music appreciation.

 

Students receive 100 minutes of physical education each week. This includes 40 minutes led by the classroom teacher and 60 minutes with a credentialed P.E. teacher. The program focuses on physical fitness, coordination, and teamwork.

 

Students visit the library weekly, where they learn about authors, new books, and engage in storytime. Each child also has the opportunity to check out books that support their independent reading growth.

 

In Technology instruction, students develop essential digital literacy skills that support their academic growth across subjects such as math, science, and social studies. Each classroom is equipped with a cart of 1:1 iPads, generously funded by ONE Orinda donations, ensuring that every student has access to their own device for engaging with digital resources and completing projects. Alongside their weekly technology lessons, students also learn about digital citizenship through the Common Sense curriculum, which guides them in navigating the digital world responsibly and respectfully.

All students participate in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and Garden activities where they explore exciting design challenges, engage in innovative practices and practice hands-on activities.