Second Grade

This information will help you understand how second graders develop and give you tips on how to help your child in reading and writing. Remember that children develop at their own pace, and that not every child displays all of these traits.

Responsibility

Second graders are capable of taking on more responsibility, and we encourage you to set high expectations for your child in that area. Keeping up with school-related items and homework should become a personal responsibiltiy of your child. Don't continue to let them depend on someone else to do and remember things for them. You must help your child realize that he or she is responsible for remembering and not his or her parents. In this situation, less help is often more help. We all need to keep in mind that learning of this nature does not happen overnight. We always tell children that it's all right to make mistakes, because they are learning and will improve with practice.

Reading and Writing:

Some children are just learning to read; others can read books by themselves.
Encourage independent reading at home and make time to read with your child as well. The more your child reads, the more words he or she will recognize and the more his or her comprehension will increase.
Some children are just learning to write; others can write short stories by themselves.
Don't be too concerned about misspelled words. Your child is still learning to spell words the right way, but do give your child the correct spellings for words if your child asks.Ask your child questions if you don't understand what is written.

Reading interests:

They are interested in books with puns, jokes, and riddles.
They like to read nature stories, stories about real children, and stories with happy endings.

Concept of Time:

They can focus their attention for longer periods of time.
They have an increased understanding of time and can sometimes plan ahead.

Interest in words:

They enjoy learning and using new words.
They ask lots of questions and enjoy using new words.

How To Help Your Child Study For A Spelling Test

During a practice test, say the word slowly, loudly and clearly. Then orally use the word in a sentence. Last, repeat the word again.

Follow the Study Pattern suggested below
Study every evening.
When you study a word:
1. Say the word. TOP
2. What consonants do you hear? TOP
3. What vowel sounds do you hear? TOP
4. Say the letter or letters for each sound. TOP
5. Think of other words with the same spelling pattern. TOP
6. Write the word. TOP
7. Write a sentence using the word.
My top can spin.