Second-graders learn a variety of new math skills throughout the school year. Lessons may be taught on computers, through workbooks and through the use of games. They learn the value of money, fractions, basic algebra symbols, basic geometric shapes, patterns, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, time, length and weight.
Science is a very broad subject. As a result, schools tend to break different types of science down by grade level -- what students learn about science in first grade will likely be very different from what they are taught in second grade. Students learn about nature including life cycles, the food chain, animals and habitats. Students study force and motion including magnets and laws of attraction. Second-graders will also learn about earth and space.
Social studies is another subject likely to vary greatly in what students learn from year to year. In second grade, students will learn about basic human needs and wants. They will also cover earth science, history and geography. Lessons may be taught through books, videos and in-class activities.
Second-grade teachers aim to increase reading, writing and language skills in students as much as possible. Students learn extended vocabulary words and focus heavily on spelling. Students learn phonics, competent writing skills and the use of proper punctuation, and learn to read a variety of different literature including books, articles and short stories. Schools break down language arts into a variety of different classes. Second-graders may have phonics, spelling, reading and English classes.
With technology used virtually everywhere, many elementary schools will offer a computer class once or several times a week. Computer classes teach students word processing and use of the Internet.
Many schools have students participate in an art or music class one day per week. Students learn basic drawing, painting and craft skills. Students also learn about musical instruments, music notes and singing. A school may put on a music concert or art show to show parents what their children have learned.
Physical education teaches students healthy habits to carry on for the rest of their lives. Students participate in games and learn the rules of various sports. Physical education may also incorporate a health and nutrition aspect to the class. Students will have physical education at least once a week, depending on the school district.
Many school districts have chosen to introduce students -- as young as second-graders -- to foreign language early on. Spanish is often the language schools chose to teach young students. Students learn basic conversational Spanish in a class that normally occurs once a week.