Achilles
Grade 2

Achilles
Grade 2
This term in reading, students actively built their reading stamina by gradually increasing the amount of time they could read independently. They explored what independent reading looks like, sounds like, and feels like—learning to find a comfortable reading spot, read quietly in their heads, and stay focused on the text. Students practised sharing their thinking by talking about characters, asking questions, and reflecting on important moments in their stories. They learnt to choose a “just right” book by considering their interests, checking that the text was not too easy or too difficult, and ensuring they could understand and enjoy what they were reading.
Students have been learning how to write recounts, which are pieces of writing that tell about something that has already happened. They practised putting events in the correct order using time words like first, then, next and finally. Children worked on writing clear sentences with capital letters and full stops, using past tense words, and making their writing more interesting by adding describing words and joining sentences together. They also learned how to plan, draft, edit and publish their work. It has been wonderful to see their confidence grow as they take pride in their writing and share it with others.
This term in Maths, our Grade 2 students will be learning about number and place value to 1000, using materials, numerals and number lines to represent and order numbers. They will develop strategies for adding and subtracting one- and two-digit numbers using number sentences and part-part-whole reasoning. Students will also collect and display data, use calendars to calculate days between events, and measure length, capacity and mass using informal units.
This term in Inquiry students have been learning about our feelings, emotions and delving into how our actions can affect others. They have been investigating some tricky topics including bullying, its effects on others and how they can stick up for themselves, others and who they can reach out to for support. We have had immersion centres in our classes where students can work together to investigate these topics and learn more.
This term in SEL, our Grade 2 students will be participating in weekly GEM Chats, focusing on Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness. These discussions help students build positive relationships and reflect on their actions.
Students have been learning about healthy and unhealthy habits, exploring choices that support their wellbeing and learning. We have also been identifying and managing different emotions, practising strategies to help regulate feelings.
All learning continues to be linked to our school values: Care for Yourself, Care for Others, Care for Learning and Care for School.
We are proud of the growth our students are showing in confidence, empathy and resilience.