Welcome to Grade Two!

Grade 2 is an exciting year. The children have moved from the Junior School to the Senior School and are exposed to many new experiences. As the year progresses their social skills become more refined and they make significant progress in their work. Becoming independent and more responsible for themselves is a major focus.

The Grade 2 program has a strong focus on English and Mathematics. The English program develops the students reading, writing, speaking and listening skills. In Reading, they are exposed to a variety of texts and taught specific reading comprehension strategies. During reading sessions, students enjoy access to extensive class libraries and are able to access a wide range of books spanning many genres and topics.  Students also participate in explicit phonics instruction each day.  During our weekly Literature sessions, we focus more deeply on a chosen book or theme and the students have the opportunity to respond in a variety of creative and hands-on ways. They also have regular visits to the school library. 

In Writing, the students are exposed to many different genres. The children learn the structure and features of narratives, information reports and persuasive texts. They also learn how to write poetry and other creative forms of writing. They are given the opportunity to publish their work throughout the year, and editing is a key skill we develop in our program.

During the year, there are many opportunities for students to present information to the grade. These may be in the form of formal presentations, where children are taught the oral skills needed to present effectively to a group.  Central to this are activities that focus heavily on developing the student’s listening skills and emphasise the importance of being a careful and attentive listener when others are speaking.

The Maths curriculum challenges the children with open ended questions and class work which gives them the skills to solve problems involving one or more steps. Students engage in structured lessons that involve plenty of hands on materials to assist them with consolidating their mathematical skills and understanding. 

The Mathletics computer program is a key component in our Maths curriculum allowing them to work independently to strengthen their skills. The Grade 2 area is also fortunate enough to have a lot of engaging resources available to complement our Maths programs.

Students have access to both iPads and laptop computers to develop their ICT skills.  There is one dedicated session per week in their grades and the technology is also integrated into other areas of the curriculum throughout the week.

Independence is an important part of Grade 2. We help to foster this with our wellbeing program. This is designed to enhance their social development and personal interaction skills.  The students are also learning to develop our social skills through the UR Strong program which helps the students navigate and work through the ups and downs of friendships

Throughout the year we will have visiting groups come into the school for special activities. Once a term we are involved in a Whole School Event Day where children are in multi-age groups and participate in fun activities based on a common theme. A performance is usually part of the day. We also go on a variety of excursions out of the school grounds based on our units of work. On these days we take parents with us.

In all areas, children are given the opportunity to work individually, in pairs, small groups and as a whole class. They are always encouraged to share their ideas and work. 

Grade 2 is always a great year!