<p>Dear Families,</p><p>Hello, and welcome to the second grade! Get ready for some exciting developments . . .your child is a BIG second grader now, and with that comes a wider knowledge base, and increase in self confidence, and most of all, a great deal of independence. We are looking forward to a tremendous amount of learning and a lot of fun. Academic expectations in second grade are high. Some beginning of the year second grade expectations are reading 45 words per minute or higher (end of year benchmark is 87 words per minute), writing a complete sentence including correct punctuation and capitalization, listening and following directions, adding and subtracting numbers within 100, memorization of +/- math facts, recognizing coins and their values, and much more. Please take a look at the following link to help you gain an understanding of the concepts we will work with throughout the year. http://www.pta.org/files/2nd%20Grade_B-W.pdf We look forward to a close partnership with you in supporting your child as they climb toward their true potential. Attached are the classroom rules and the hierarchy of consequences. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with some of the student expectations. We prize a positive, respectful learning environment and always encourage students to support this environment. Student learning is directly impacted by student behavior, and therefore we expect our students to be respectful of those around them at all times. Part of our educational partnership involves home/school communication. The student agendas will be one way we can keep ongoing communication. Look for stickers, stamps, and/or notes (depending on the specific teacher) as well as notes home. The agendas will also serve as a hall pass at school, and essentially, as a direct line from school to home. They must be taken home each day, signed by a parent/ guardian, and returned to school to ensure continued communication. We are anxious to get to know you and your family. We look forward to a fantastic year.</p><p>Below are some websites to help your child prepare for 2nd grade: Math:  http://www.mathplayground.com/common_core_state_standards_for_mathematics_grade_2.ht ml  http://www.ixl.com/math/grade-2  http://www.studystack.com/flashcard-173185 Language Arts – Most importantly, READ EVERY DAY!</p><p> http://www.ixl.com/ela/grade-2  http://www.internet4classrooms.com/skill_builders/comprehension_language_second_2nd_gra de.htm</p><p>Sincerely,</p><p>The Second Grade Team</p>