In math we have been working on measurement. The students have been measuring using different measuring tools: Meter stick, measuring tape, ruler, thermometer, scale, measuring cup, and yard stick.
Last week during math, we went outside and took turns tracing each other on the playground with chalk. After our bodies were traced, the students were able to use the measuring tape to measure how long they were from head to toe. Then, they traced and measured their hands and feet using rulers. They had a blast with this! They love being able to use their newly learned measuring skills for real life activities.
Just this week, we introduced interactive journals. We will be using a spiral notebook for our Reading and Math interactive journal. The first activity we added to our interactive journal was one on estimating measurement. The students learned that they could estimate measurements using their body! (inch=knuckle, centimeter=fingertip, yard=large step, foot=forearm) The students enjoyed a sorting activity. On the following page, they completed a scavenger hunt. The students love doing measuring scavenger hunts.
Science:
We just finished up our chapter on Plants! click here to check out our lima bean experiment!
This week we started animals. The students worked in groups to classify animals into groups. The could sort their animal cards by where they live, color of fur, what they eat, etc. Then, they learned about the two main animal groups-- animals with backbones and animals without. After that, we discussed the different sub-animal groups-- mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, & insects. Then they worked in groups to classify the animals according to their correct animal group! In the next few weeks the students will assigned an animal project where they will have to make a poster on a specific animal. Our classroom will have some "visitors" as well! Our meal worms will be arriving on Wednesday (10/15). We will be making observations for a few weeks to see how animals grow and change. We will be tying math and measurement into their experiment as well!
Social Studies:
We just finished our Unit on learning about "Where We Live". The second graders created amazing dioramas focusing on urban, suburban and rural communities. Way to go Second Graders on a job well done!! We are currently exploring our next unit which focuses on "Our Earth". Students have been working with maps and viewing different types of land forms found on Earth.
Reading:
Check out our Stellaluna project here: click here!
We are working hard on Common Core Standards RL2.5 and RL 2.6. First we read aloud "Friend Frog" (fiction) and we compared the two characters, field mouse and frog. Next, we read Frog and Toad All Year. The students used a chart to compare Frog and Toad to help review the two characters and their different perspectives. Currently, we are working with Fractured Fairy Tales. We are comparing and contrasting different points of view. The students are having a blast with these fairy tales!
Our October bulletin boards:
