Second grade scientists learn how to observe, record, and interpret information like scientists.  They learn to identify tools in the science classroom and how they make work easier. They also learn to understand that scientists use the metric system as a universal language. The children will apply the skills they learn as they work in cooperative groups, delegating jobs and sharing the tasks. 

The performance expectations in first grade help students formulate answers to questions such as:

• How does land change and what are some things that cause it to change?
• What are the different kinds of land and bodies of water?
• How are materials similar and different from one another, and how do the properties of the materials relate to their use?
• What do plants need to grow?
• How many types of living things live in a place?

When your child’s journal arrives home at the end of a unit, look through its pages with your child and realize that there is more to their work than meets the eye. Good science is learned through active participation, and engagement in inquiry-based, hands-on activities. If their memories serve them well, your child will be able to explain the activity, which supported each and every page of their journal. Use this information to extend our curriculum into your home lives.