Year 2 News

From Sally, Year 2 teacher

Shape Exploration

Numeracy

In Mathematics, students have been exploring 2D and 3D shapes and learning about angles. They have been on a classroom hunt to identify 3D shapes in their surroundings and have represented 2D shapes using Polypad. Using Geo Sticks, students have begun creating their own geometric designs, helping them understand how shapes are formed and connected. Last week, they begun working with protractors and have started learning how to measure angles with increasing accuracy. Today we have introduced pattern blocks to practise flipping, turning and sliding 2D shapes to form images. It has been wonderful to see their enthusiasm for hands on learning. 

Writing

During our Writing sessions, students have been experimenting with ways to build tension and engage their readers through descriptive language. They have been learning to show rather than tell, to make thoughtful word choices, and to reveal details slowly to create more interesting stories. Last week, students also had the opportunity to showcase their writing skills through a free choice writing piece. Teachers have shared a checklist of key features that make a strong Year Two level piece of writing so that students can ensure they are including all the essential elements in their work. They have enjoyed the freedom to experiment with different planners for narratives.

Reading

In Reading, we have continued with explicit phonics instruction, focusing on words ending in “le,” such as wobble, bubble and trouble. Students have also reviewed previously taught silent consonant combinations such as “kn” and “mb.” As well as this, the students have continued their word sum activities which allow them to experiment with adding prefixes and suffixes and learn how these additions alter the meaning and use of words. Alongside this, the students have kept practising fluency reading to improve their expression and accuracy. It has been great to see their confidence grow as they continue to apply increasingly complex decoding knowledge to their independent reading.

Digital Technology

The students technology skills have continued to grow in Digital Technology over the last fortnight as we have continued to experiment with Sketches and KeyNote to bring our characters to life. The Year 2s have created these characters using pictures of themselves, added them into a dream landscape using a picture they have found on Brittanica, and animated the characters to allow them to talk and interact with the environment and maybe even add another character. This has been a nice to showcase how far they have come with digital technology use, partnered work and story telling.

Finally! A big thank you to all the families who were able to attend and support the Art Show. The students were thrilled to share their creative work with their loved ones, and the pride on their faces said it all. After many weeks of practise, our school performance was a great success. Although there were some nervous moments, every student gave their best effort and had a wonderful time on stage. We are so proud of the confidence and teamwork they displayed throughout the experience.