Teaching punctuation through direct instruction is an effective way to introduce each mark and its usage. State the specific mark and its definition, then write examples on chart paper of the correct way to use it. Second graders usually have a grammar workbook, or you might have worksheets with sentences that need the correct punctuation mark inserted. Use these resources as whole-group exercises in class. Instead of assigning them as independent work, complete some together and monitor the class. This will help you know who is having trouble applying what you teach.
Teaching punctuation while reading is effective because students can see each mark being applied correctly as it naturally occurs in print. Second grade teachers can demonstrate the use of each mark as they read aloud or as students take turns reading. For example, the teacher can point out the various uses of commas in a book like placing them after a series of items, before a direct quotation, or after the word "yes" or "no" used for direct address.
Most second graders are proficient in writing skills like letter formation but still need a lot of practice in using correct punctuation in their compositions. Teachers can have students write sentences in response to books they've read and require them to incorporate commas, exclamation marks, and question marks in addition to periods. The teacher can also take up writing assignments like daily journal entries and check for correct punctuation use. When possible, the teacher should meet one-on-one with each student to give constructive feedback.
Teachers also can use games and activities to teach punctuation. This provides second graders an opportunity to learn while having fun. For example, the teacher writes a punctuation mark on index cards, enough for each student to have one. The teacher then reads a sentence from a book or makes up a sentence. Students listen and decide if they have the card with the correct punctuation mark for that sentence. If they think they have the correct card, they hold it up. This can also help the teacher observe which students are having trouble understanding punctuation. The Internet is another resource for interactive games and quizzes to help children reinforce their knowledge.