2nd Grade

2nd grade students working as a team to design and build the fastest ramp - so many unique and creative ideas!

We read The Perfect Square, written by Michael Hall. We discussed and compared two-dimensional objects versus three-dimensional objects.  Students were then tasked with creating something brand new from a square piece of paper! 

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, 2nd graders listened to Balloons Over Broadway by Melissa Sweet.  This story details the life of Tony Sarg, a German-American puppeteer, who helped pioneer the Macy's Day Thanksgiving Parade. Then, students were able to design and create their very own float for our Macy's Day Parade, BUT we had one small problem - no helium! Students had to design and engineer a device that would allow them to hold their balloon in the air as if it were floating: the higher, the better! We had a blast testing and improving our designs until it was finally time for the parade. Check out some photos and a video of the parade below!  

Second grade students are learning about "binary code", which uses zeroes and ones to give directions to our computers. They made bracelets and ornaments used binary code and their initials! 

Computer Coding

We began our unit on computer coding - providing an algorithm for a computer to follow that includes what to do/how to do it by completing a few coding activities "unplugged", meaning we did not use any technology to start. We broke down how to give very specific step-by-step directions using "ilfe-size coding" and "coding mats".  Computer science is extremely relevant in today's job field, and learning computer science teaches students about problem-solving, logical thinking, creativity, perseverance, and the importance of trial-and-error.  

Creepy Crayon!

We read Creepy Crayon, which ends with quite the cliff-hanger! Students followed step-by-step directions to draw their own Creepy Crayon. They used a graphic organizer to plan out and write details about what happens next in the story.  After writing their own version of the ending, students used the Chatterpix app on the iPads to make their crayons come to life. Check out some 2nd grade Creepy Crayons below!