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Mary E. Griswold Elementary School

Soaring to Excellence: Be Kind, Be safe, Be Griswold!

Grade 2

Grade 2

Welcome to Second Grade!

Second grade is an exciting year of growth, discovery, and increasing independence! Our goal is to provide students with a strong academic foundation while helping them become confident, responsible, and caring members of our school community.

Our Programs of Study

Reading & Writing – Wit & Wisdom

Through Wit & Wisdom, students build knowledge and develop strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Students engage with rich texts, build vocabulary, strengthen comprehension, and learn to express their ideas clearly through writing. Students build these skills through exploration of various topics including seasonal change, the American West, advocacy for change (Civil Rights Movement) and nutrition.

Phonics – Wiley Blevins

Our phonics instruction follows Wiley Blevins and provides systematic, explicit instruction in foundational reading skills. Students develop their decoding, spelling, word-reading, and fluency skills through engaging, targeted practice.

Mathematics – Illustrative Mathematics & Bridges Number Corner

Using Illustrative Mathematics and Bridges Number Corner, students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while building fluency and problem-solving skills. We focus on place value, addition and subtraction, measurement, geometry, time, money, mathematical reasoning, and explaining our thinking. 

Science & Social Studies-Students explore the world around them through hands-on learning, discussion, questioning, investigation, and opportunities to connect new learning to their everyday lives. In science, students explore the world around them through Mystery Science. They investigate topics such as plants and animals, Earth's changing land, properties of materials, and engineering and design. In social studies, students learn all about community and citizenship while exploring Berlin and its foundation. 

Along with academics, second grade is an important year for developing independence and responsibility. Students practice following directions, managing materials, transitioning efficiently, working independently and collaboratively, communicating respectfully, and taking ownership of their learning.

Together, we strive to create a safe, joyful, and supportive classroom community where every student feels valued, challenged, and excited to learn. We look forward to partnering with families throughout the year as our second graders grow into confident readers, writers, mathematicians, problem-solvers, and members of our school community!

 

Four smiling women stand side-by-side indoors, wearing casual summer dresses.

Luciana Bongiovanni

Marie Whitehouse

Mallory Burrill

Courtney Jinks