Gregg International School 　　G2 Class

Course Descriptions

Mathematics - Students are introduced to several important math concepts in G2 class as they continue to strengthen their skills in basic arithmetic. Recognition of numbers ranging from 1 to 1,000, fractional parts of objects, and an introduction to multiplication and division are part of the math curriculum for our G2 students. Instruction in addition and subtraction involving three-digit numbers without regrouping and two-digit numbers with regrouping is given in a supportive and non-threatening manner to promote a positive association between students and numbers. Higher-level concepts involving patterns such as measurement, time, and geometry are explored. Respective examples include: metric measures for length, capacity, and mass (i.e., meter, liter, and gram and their units of measurement) as well as corresponding US standard measures; the terms “a.m.” and “p.m.” and fractions of hours; and lines and related concepts of segments, end points, and symmetry. Practical activities using these concepts will have students measuring and weighing various objects, telling time to the nearest minute, and interactive exercises which explore the concepts of perimeter and area. Problem solving activities in which students determine whether addition, subtraction, multiplication or division is needed for a solution will greatly expand their functional math skills.

Language Arts - READING - The introduction to students of different genres of literature, such as poetry and folklore, excites their curiosity and invigorates their perseverance in reading. Instruction to boost their reading skills will have students learning to use phonics, structural analysis, and context clues as complementary means for comprehending reading material and deciphering new words. Additionally, students learn to make predictions about the content of narratives and to check and clarify their predictions while they read. Techniques for building vocabulary will include homophones, figurative language, and the exploration of words with multiple meanings. As students become comfortable with alphabetical order, they are ready to explore those indispensable reference sources, dictionaries and encyclopedias. WRITING - As students writing skills improve through daily practice and instructive encouragement, their confidence in using written communication as a viable means for self-expression grows. Brainstorming and collaborative work are used as methods to stimulate the creative impulses of the children that are then channeled into written expression. Students are given the opportunity to select writing topics that interest them. Since writing skills are an essential foundation for all aspects and areas of education, we elicit from students written expression that deals with issues and subjects associated with other curricular areas. It is imperative that students ascertain the connections between various fields of knowledge, and trans-disciplinary writing is a sure way to illuminate their understanding of that, while also providing excellent documentation of their progress. Moreover, we hold regular “writing conferences” in which students receive help with editing, spelling, and punctuation so they are better able to clarify their ideas and revise their written work.

Science - The strengthening of students' powers of observation, inquiry, and problem solving results from hands-on experiences in research and experimentation. Of course, students in G2 aren't expected to meet the rigorous and time-consuming methods used by professional scientists, but they are introduced to these concepts by way of experiments in which the metamorphoses of shapes, structures, and properties of organic and inorganic materials over time is observed. Thus, students gain valuable experience in the “what” “how” and “why” of science which, in turn, will spur them on to investigate other phenomena that are ripe for inquiry.

Social Studies - “A Trip Around the World” is the theme for G2 social studies class. Our multicultural student body provides an excellent resource to help us learn about the roles of family members in various cultures and how traditional holidays are celebrated in those cultures. By examining each other's heritage in a spirit of cooperation, we hope to broaden our students' knowledge of inhabitants of distant geographical locales, while also deepening their understanding of the family system as a model of social organization that transcends time and place. Projects and activities include dramatization, music, games, and art that reflect the topical matters of the lessons.

Art/Drama/Music - Children need the opportunity to express their creativity in constructive ways, and art, drama, and music provide wonderful means for doing this. Some children may find visual or musical forms of self-expression more satisfying than using words to communicate their ideas and feelings. Each year elementary school students produce a great variety of visual artifacts, stage performances, and sing in a school concert. These art, drama, and music activities offer students the chance to find new and original ways of communicating their ideas and feelings. By participating in artistic endeavors, they will be developing their creativity in a constructive manner while also enjoying the rewards of producing things that have aesthetic appeal.

Physical Education - Young bodies need plenty of exercise to ensure proper physical development. Our outdoor play area at GIS provides ample space in a safe environment for students to run, jump, and exercise. In addition to the benefits that exercise and play give to children's physical development, they are also essential in helping them acquire personal and social habits that are necessary for being productive members of society. We feel that all aspects of a child's growth and learning are important.

Computer Lab - Students have ample computer time each week to develop their cybernetic skills. In addition to keyboard practice and Internet searches, students use the latest software that complements and enhances other curricular areas such as language arts, social studies, and science. Computer lab gives students valuable experience in developing technical expertise as well as broadening their knowledge base through a trans-disciplinary approach to learning.