Second Grade Curriculum
Changes In Matter
What is matter? How can matter be classified? In this physical science unit, second grade students will explore how matter changes. They will determine through hands-on investigations, that some changes in matter are permanent, while others can be reversed.
Earth’s Systems
Students will explore slow and quick changes on Earth in this unit. They will experiment to discover how land changes over time through the formation of rocks. They will also construct explanations of how water and wind change the shape of the land.
Interdependent Relationships In Ecosystems
This unit focuses on the interdependency between plants and animals in nature. They will observe insect and plant interactions by caring for butterflies in the science lab. Second grade scientists will also explore pollination and seed dispersal mechanisms. They will use their observations to compare the diversity of life in a variety of habitats.
Updated September 15, 2017
After receiving an interesting video about land changes, second graders were challenged to ask questions about how land may change over time. Students then sorted their questions into categories to guide their learning.
Updated October 13, 2017
This week, second grade scientists continued their study of the Earth's crust by conducting a soil study. They used careful observation, experiments, and research to determine that soil is a mixture of ingredients such as rock, sand, silt, clay, and humus. Next week we will begin to investigate how the surface of the Earth can be eroded by wind, water, and ice.
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Updated November 17, 2017
Second grade superhero scientists applied their knowledge of weathering and erosion to save the town! Students were thrilled to brainstorm and design a solution to prevent erosion around a model of a town. This week they tested their design and evaluated their success. Next week, students will be beginning their passion projects. This project will give the second graders the opportunity to identify an area of interest in science that makes them curious, research their topic, and communicate their learning to others. Ask your second graders about their passion project topic!
Updated December 6, 2017
During the month of December, all second graders will have an opportunity to explore a topic of their choice through a Passion Project. They will ask questions about their topic, research, and set goals. The Passion Projects not only capture their attention by allowing them to select a topic that makes them curious, it also helps them to explore who they are as a learner. Second graders are thrilled to be exploring what they like best, and cannot wait to share what they have learned!
Updated January 9. 2018
Second graders had a blast this week beginning their chemistry unit! This inquiry based unit is centered around helping to create a new restaurant in Lake Forest. Students received a box of unknown materials from the "restaurant" shelves. They used their knowledge of properties and experimentation to assist in labeling the unknown restaurant materials. Their favorite experience was mixing vinegar and baking soda to observe a chemical reaction!
Updated January 18, 2018
This week second grade scientists learned about properties of liquids through exploration of mystery liquids!