The goal of studying selected topics in World History and Geography in second grade is to foster curiosity and the beginnings of understanding about the larger world and about the varied civilizations and ways of life. This can be done through a variety of means: story, drama, art, music, discussion, and more.
World Geography
Second Graders demonstrate a strong affinity for learning about their own country as well as other countries around the world. Students draw their prior knowledge and personal experiences about people and places to make connections to concepts being taught in class. They use a variety of materials such as the globe, various maps and atlases, puzzles and games in order to extend their knowledge of the world’s geography to the geography of the United States. We use this range of geographic skills to investigate and identify the location of a particular region. These resources have provided them with the foundation to researching a particular continent, country, or state, acquire relevant facts, and create and interpret maps.
Ancient History
Second Grade studies the geography, the famous places, and the people of Ancient and Modern China. We learn of the similarities and differences in the way people of China live and work and how much they value family and education. We study the teachings of Confucius and the influence Confucianism has had on the Chinese government and culture. We study the Great Wall of China and what it was built to do and other Chinese inventions such as paper, printing, fireworks, and the importance of silk. The Chinese culture is reflected through our writings and projects.
American History
During the second half of the year, the second grade students shift their attention to the causes, major figures and consequences of the Revolutionary War. We begin by studying the making and writing of the U.S. Constitution by the Founding Fathers. At the same time Americans were forming a new government, they were moving westward to the frontier. The Westward Expansion period in American History was a time of struggle, hard work, growth, and change. Second graders travel west to examine the impact of culture, history, geography, and the economy on the events and lives of people who lived during this historical time.
We conclude our study of American History with the Civil War. This unit introduces students to some of the events that led to the Civil War and the major historical figures that were involved at this time period. These figures include Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Harriet Tubman, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Clara Barton. Learning is enhanced through role playing and hands on projects that provides students with an environment of authenticity.
