Valley Preparatory School Redlands California

Language Arts

There are many subjects that come under the heading of Language Arts.  The goals to be attained in reading are to read with fluency, expression, and comprehension.  Second grade students must be able to identify the beginning, middle, and end of a text as well as identify characters, plot, and setting.  Special emphasis is placed of making inferences and gaining information that is not directly written in the text.

Phonics, spelling, and English instruction enable the students to write a complete paragraph with correct punctuation.  Students identify base words, prefixes, and suffixes.  They are able to identify nouns, pronouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs in their reading and writing experiences.  Language Arts skills are integrated throughout the curriculum.

Texts: Open Court Reading - Grade 2, 2002
Plus workbook
Spelling & Vocabulary - Grade 3, Houghton Mifflin, 2006
Phonics - Level C, Sadlier-Oxford, 2001
Assorted supplemental materials.

Mathematics

The objectives for second grade math include the exploration and application of problem solving skills and strategies.  Basic addition and subtraction skills, with and without regrouping, are taught.  Other skills taught include exposure to basic concepts in time, money, and measurement.  Simple fractions are introduced as well as geometric shapes, symmetry, and graphs.  Simple multiplication and division are introduced at the end of the year.  Emphasis is placed on place value to the thousands and counting to 1,000 in a variety of ways.

Text: New Progress in Mathematics - Grade 2, Sadlier-Oxford, 2007
Plus workbook
Flashcards, games, and supplementary materials

Science

In science, focus is placed on investigative skills with an emphasis on scientific process and documentation/observation.  These skills are used to learn about ideas in the areas of life science, Earth science, and physical science.  Particular attention is paid to life cycles of various plants and animals, the make-up of Earth's surface, and energy of motion and sound.

Text: Science - Grade 2, Houghton Mifflin, 2007
Supplemental materials

Social Studies

The social studies curriculum broadens the knowledge and understanding of history, geography, culture, and social systems.  Through the study of history children learn how people have made a difference in the world.  The study of comparative cultures conveys an understanding of how culture is transmitted and how societies have ideals and standards of behavior.  This is also emphasized by learning about ancestors.  Map reading, current events, and the history of holidays are included in the social studies curriculum.

Text: History & Social Science - Grade 2, Houghton Mifflin, 2007
Plus workbook
Supplemental materials