Science and Social Studies

The science lessons are based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The science lessons engage students in inquiry-based learning centered around place-based, often local phenomena. This year, we will study two big units: Physical Science (Matter and Its Interactions) and Life Science (Investigating Plants and Marine Science). In addition, we will watch videos and conduct activities using Mystery Science. Mystery Doug is a huge hit with the students.

The social studies lessons will involve reading and discussing text with the social studies objectives in mind and conducting projects to help deepen understanding. In second grade, the students will focus on the following big ideas from our social studies standards and Social-Emotional Learning Standards:

Civics: Understands key ideals and principles of the United States, including those in the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and other documents. Understands the purposes, organization, and function of governments, laws, and political systems. Understands that citizenship and civic involvement in the neighborhood and community are the rights and responsibilities of individuals.

Economics: Applies understanding of economic concepts and systems to analyze decision-making and the interactions between individuals, households, businesses, governments, and societies.

Geography: Understands and applies basic mapping elements such as symbols, compass rose, labels, and a key to read and construct maps that display information about neighborhoods or local communities. Understands the physical characteristics of places in the community.

History: Understands and creates timelines for events in a community to show how the present is connected to the past. Understands individuals who have shaped history in the local community.