Fact Finding

This week Grade 2 had the opportunity do some “fact finding” on different topics such as weather, mountains, and climate in Europe.  Before beginning the hunt, we discussed the differences between fiction and non-fiction books or where to best find facts.  Then in small groups, Grade 2 read short articles and selected important facts on their topics to present to the class on poster paper.  While learning about Europe, we also practiced skimming/scanning for information, taking notes, and reporting  –  all valuable skills from the language curriculum.  Each group then gave a short presentation to the rest of the class.  Grade 2 also had the opportunity to share what they had worked on with the Grade 1 class.    

In other exciting news, Grade 2 received letters from our pen pals at Collingwood School in Vancouver, BC, Canada.  We took the last part of our day to open the nicely decorated envelopes and read aloud the answers to our many questions about life in Canada.  Grade 2 was surprised to learn they have many things in common with their Canadian peers such as favorite subjects and sports.   In the upcoming weeks we will take a break from some of our POI work to write another round of letters.

Kind regards,

Ms. Christine Aberley

Maps and European Architecture

Welcome back!  Grade 2 has been busy since the beginning of the new semester - getting used to school routines again and starting a new POI, titled A Sense of Europe.  We started off the POI by examining a map of Europe and discussing the various countries were familiar with or have visited.  Did you know there are 42 countries in Europe?  Grade 2 then examined the different parts of a map (title, symbol, legend, scale, and compass) and how they help us.  Today we had a quick discussion about European architecture and domes.  The class then had a chance to design their own city scene inspired by photographs from Italy, Germany, Russia, and Greece.  Like architects, the art project required Grade 2 to follow certain steps and use tools such as a ruler to be precise.  The finished projects will be on display outside the classroom next week.

In Mathematics we have begun to learn our 2, 3, and 4 multiplication tables through the use of strategies such as skip-counting, drawing pictures, and using dot paper.  We have even learned some songs and a rap to make the learning process fun.  We were so loud that the Grade 1 class came to hear us sing the 2s.  Grade 2 is quickly learning that with multiplication, consistent practice is important!

Have a great weekend and kind regards,

Ms. Christine Aberley