English
Second Grade Language Arts integrates the development of reading, writing, spelling, research and oral/visual communication skills. Students are supported on site by Adult Mentors. Directions for the mentors are included in the content of each lesson.

Reading
Students use letter-sound correspondence knowledge and structural analysis to decode words. They build a stock of sight words that helps them to read quickly and accurately with comprehension. Students acquire vocabulary through exposure to language-rich situations such as reading award-winning literature. Students use context clues to determine the meaning of new vocabulary. Students develop and learn to apply strategies that help them to comprehend and interpret informational and literary texts. They develop basic concepts about print and how books work. Students learn to read diagrams, charts, graphs, maps and displays in text as sources of additional information. Students enhance their understanding of the human story by reading a wide variety of literary texts that represent many different authors, cultures and eras.

Writing
Students’ writing develops when they regularly engage in the major phases of the writing process. Add to this daily journal writing, and writing skill increases dramatically. Journals are provided in required kits provided by the JCESC VLA. Students use a range of familiar forms (e.g. letters). During the first semester, they continue to build their skill in printing; during the second semester they advance to developing the skill of cursive writing, practicing both letters and words. Students learn to master writing conventions through exposure to good models and opportunities for practice. Writing conventions include spelling, punctuation, grammar and other conventions associated with forms of the written text.

Spelling
They develop and extend their understanding of the spelling system, using a range of strategies for spelling words correctly. All of this is enhanced through the use of magnetic letters provided in the required kits.

Research
They define and investigate self-selected or assigned issues, topics and problems. They locate, select and make use of relevant information from a variety of media.

Communication
Students learn to communicate effectively through exposure to good models and opportunities for practice. Students learn to deliver presentations that effectively convey information and persuade or entertain audiences. (back)

Rev. 05-26-06