Family Projects

 I want to let you know that 2^nd grade is when the kids really begin to read to learn, we are no longer just learning to read.  In my opinion, the biggest change is that Science and Social Studies have unit quizzes, paragraph writing, and sometimes even tests.  Expect to work on and turn in monthly family projects and monthly book reports.  The family projects all relate to Science, Social Studies or current events.  These projects are tied to the report card and standard that says:

Comprehension and Collaboration

1. Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about grade 2 topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups. a. Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion). b. Build on others’ talk in conversations by linking their comments to the remarks of others. c. Ask for clarification and further explanation as needed about the topics and texts under discussion.

2. Recount or describe key ideas or details from a text read aloud or information presented orally or through other media.

3. Ask and answer questions about what a speaker says in order to clarify comprehension, gather additional information, or deepen understanding of a topic or issue.

In 2^nd grade we still call them family projects because the students learn from and with you on how to plan and present their projects. This is helpful because in the upper grades students are expected to do projects like dioramas, posters (3^rd &4^th) and 5^th Grade has been known to have a science fair.  The grades will be based on how well they discuss the project with me and each other. With each project, we give a grading rubric so you can also begin to learn how effort=grade.  The District Benchmarks in December and March have a similar activity that matches the family projects called the “Extended Response”. The children work independently on these District Benchmarks.  While the benchmarks are not reflected on the report cards, it is important that they are prepared for the task. I also think that it is important that their report card grades should be relatively similar to these benchmark results because its an equalizer between all 2nd graders in Cobb.  

After completing one year in 2^nd Grade, I am even more confident that the Family Projects are a crucial element for your children’s success this year and for the future.  

homework, book reports and family projects 2013-2014
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