Welcome to Tr. Chandra and Tr. Kelly's
2nd and 3rd grade class!

Theme Study
We are a storytelling classroom! We explore the tradition of oral storytelling and experience being captivated audiences for each other’s performances. We use puppets and props as well as many group storytelling activities. In a two-year cycle we research different types of stories. In one year we focus on our personal stories—how we got our names, what our names mean, and other family stories. We write personal narratives and complete autobiographical timelines.

There is also an opportunity to try small oral history projects. Immigration will be the culminating personal story theme.

In alternate years the focus is on folk tales and fairy tales from cultures around the world. We learn about different ways to tell stories, like through music and dance, using shapes or origami, and quilts (with a connecting theme about the Underground Railroad). As storytellers we “spin yarns” and “weave tales” both with words and with fiber. We spend time knitting—on spools and then on two needles!

Math and Science
Math is one area split between grade levels with the use of the Everyday Math curriculum from the University of Chicago. In addition to this curriculum, we use games and activities to re-teach, practice, and enrich math topics on an individualized basis. Broad math topics include basic math facts, place value, money, time, geometry, fractions, measurement, and data graphing.

Science strands are taught on a two-year rotating cycle with one year exploring simple chemistry and earth science (rocks, soil, volcanoes, earthquakes) as topics and the other year focusing on outer space and magnets and electricity. Being good stewards of our environment and wise use of resources is an on-going theme with our school wide recycling and composting projects.

Language Arts
Reading and writing workshops comprise the bulk of our language arts instruction.

Strategies for comprehending text are taught and the 6 Traits of Good Writing are used to guide students as they navigate the writing process. These ideas provide a common vocabulary for teachers and students alike, helping to easily discuss reading and writing. Students read a variety of books independently throughout the year. Book talks and reviews are completed as books are read. Book clubs (literature circles) allow small groups to read a book together and have guided discussions.

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