Second Grade

Curriculum

Reading

Focus: In second grade we learn how to decode one syllable and multisyllabic words with a variety of vowel patterns, letter combinations, prefixes, and suffixes. We use the Slingerland approach to read leveled texts in small groups focusing on decoding strategies, fluency, and comprehension.

Textbook: Level 2 Phonics, A-Z leveled readers, chapter books determined by Lexile, teacher-made decoding lists.

Writing

Focus: In second grade we focus on encoding one syllable and multisyllabic words with a variety of vowel patterns, letter combinations, prefixes, and suffixes. The children progress from writing single letters to letter combinations, followed by individual words, phrases, sentences, and dictation paragraphs. Cursive is taught through the Slingerland approach starting at the beginning of second grade.

Textbook: Slingerland lesson plans, teacher-made graphic organizers.

Math

Focus: In second grade we work on mastering addition and subtraction facts through 20, develop strategies for adding and subtracting within 100, focus on the concept of place value, work with time, data, and money, and delve into properties of 2-d and 3-d shapes.

Textbook: Eureka Math

Science

Focus: Air and Weather, rocks and minerals, healthy bodies

Textbook: Foss kit materials and teacher-made

Social Studies

Focus: Families and Neighborhoods, Kenya

Textbook: Storypath

Religion

Focus: Weekly readings, gospel stories, symbols of the church, parts of the mass

Textbook: Textbook: Pflaum Gospel Weekly

Social/Emotional Skills

Textbook: Second Step

Service and Leadership

Second grade partners with Merrill Gardens for visits and fun activities with our "grand friends!"

Enrichment

I use positive reinforcement to encourage a loving and productive community. We enthusiastically celebrate our writing with our Spring Writers Workshop celebration. Small group instruction in reading. 4th and 5th grade math buddies.

Special Events

Visits with residents from Merrill Gardens

First Reconciliation and First Communion

Neighborhood Business interviews

Writers Workshop Celebration

Ms. Nikki Jensen

"Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart." - Eleanor Roosevelt

I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon before moving to Seattle in 2003. I graduated from Seattle Pacific University with a degree in Food and Nutrition in 2007. I began the Masters In Teaching program at UW in 2010. This is my twelfth year working at Our Lady of the Lake. In the spring of 2022, I earned my credentials as a certified Slingerland instructor. I love being a part of children’s social/emotional, academic, and personal growth daily!