Mathematics

Mathematics Goals:

The goal of the mathematics program is to encourage all children to THINK and use numbers in various forms and combinations while learning different strategies for solving problems. The strategies introduced at this age support the development of mathematical understanding as it evolves later in the curriculum. A variety of manipulatives are used by the students throughout the year to learn and reinforce the concepts taught and discovered and to foster a strong number sense. A great deal of emphasis is placed on solving and inventing word problems.

Texts:

Second Grade Everyday Mathematics (SRA/McGraw Hill)
Second Grade Investigations (Scott Foresman)

Materials Used:

Manipulatives, including base ten blocks, Cuisenaire rods, pattern blocks, attribute blocks, 100-number board, geoboards, Judy clocks, money; scales, calculators, liquid measuring tools; rulers; thermometers; snap cubes; tangrams; dice; teacher-made materials; board games, and computer activities.

Students who successfully complete the Grade Two Mathematics program will be able to demonstrate knowledge of:

• Counting skills
• Mental math skills
• Problem-solving strategies
• Knowledge of the relationships between +, -, x, ÷
• The ability to add and subtract whole numbers
• Proper use of place value
• Mastery of basic multiplication and division
• Ability to tell time
• Ability to use money
• Measurement skills in the metric and standard systems
• Beginning geometry, including a knowledge of 2- and 3-dimensional shapes
• A beginner's understanding of fractions
• Estimation skills
• Effective critical thinking
• Data collection, analysis, and graph making
• Beginning calculator skills