Nurturing Curiosity and Growth in Second and Third Grade

At Friends School Haverford, our second and third-grade program is designed to inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and build a strong academic foundation. Through a blend of traditional and hands-on learning experiences, students are encouraged to take academic, creative, and social risks that lead to deep, meaningful learning.



Social and Emotional Learning: Building Kindness and Responsibility

 We believe that education goes beyond academics. Using the Responsive Classroom and Zones of Regulation curricula, students learn to identify and manage their emotions, collaborate with peers, and care for the wider world. At the start of the year, students create a class agreement centered on kindness, setting the tone for a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

Language Arts: From Learning to Read to Reading to Learn

In second and third grade, students transition from learning to read to reading to learn. Our Fundations program strengthens foundational reading and writing skills, while Guided Reading sessions allow students to explore texts at their “just right” level. Through journaling, personal narratives, informational writing, and poetry, students develop their writer’s voice and learn to express themselves clearly and creatively.

Mathematics: Building Problem-Solving Skills

Using the Math in Focus curriculum, students develop mental math abilities and number sense through hands-on activities, manipulatives, and real-world problem-solving. Topics include fractions, data analysis, and geometry, with an emphasis on connecting previous learning to new concepts. Math games and interactive tools make learning engaging and fun!

Social Studies: Exploring Fairness and Changemakers

Students expand their understanding of the world by examining questions of fairness and the responsible use of resources. They study the stories of historical changemakers and consider how they, too, can make a positive impact. Critical thinking skills are emphasized as students learn to assess the validity of their sources.

Science: Discovering the Natural World

Our science curriculum encourages students to question and explore the natural world. Through hands-on experiments, students develop skills in observing, hypothesizing, experimenting, and analyzing. They learn to keep detailed records, draw conclusions, and communicate their findings, fostering a lifelong love of science and discovery.

A Foundation for Lifelong Learning

At Friend’s School Haverford, we are committed to helping students grow into curious, self-motivated, and responsible learners. Our second and third-grade program provides the tools and support students need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.

Learn more today at https://www.friendshaverford.org/.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

First Grade Foundations: Nurturing Curiosity, Growth, and Community at Friends School Haverford

Image
Building Strong Foundations: A Journey Through First Grade First grade marks a transformative stage in a child’s educational journey. It’s a year where curiosity is nurtured, friendships blossom, and foundational skills in reading, writing, mathematics, and social learning take root. At Friends School Haverford, first graders thrive in a supportive environment that balances individual growth with community building. Social and Emotional Learning Developing both academic and social competencies is essential for student success. At the core of our curriculum are the research-based principles of Responsive Classroom and The Zones of Regulation, fostering an environment where children feel safe, valued, and motivated to learn. Each school day begins with a Morning Meeting, setting a positive tone as students greet one another and share their aspirations. This daily ritual encourages connection, strengthens communication skills, and helps build a classroom community grounded in respect and ...
Read more

Friends School Haverford as a Quaker School

Image
Friends School Haverford is a Friends (Quaker) school and welcomes students and families of all religious and humanistic traditions. The School was founded by Haverford Friends Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends in 1885. From the earliest days, Meeting members, community members who sympathized with Friends educational ideals, and families associated with Haverford College worked to provide a Friends elementary school in the community. The essential belief of the Religious Society of Friends is that each person has “that of God” within them. Friends call this the “inner light.” This belief naturally leads us to treat one another with respect and appreciation. Our School community is enhanced by the differences that we bring as well as our commonalities. Quakers appreciate the “search for truth” and believe this orientation is deeply compatible with education. In weekly Meeting for Worship, the community gathers in quiet reflection and shares spoken messages. The community focu...
Read more

Integrity, Empathy, Respect: The Quaker Ethos at the Heart of Friends School Haverford

Image
Start your journey towards excellence with us at Friends' School Haverford, situated in the picturesque town of Haverford, Pennsylvania. Our distinguished institution offers a remarkable education deeply grounded in Quaker values and principles. Founded on the cornerstones of community building, inclusivity, and the pursuit of social justice, Friends' School Haverford is unswervingly committed to cultivating thoughtful, compassionate, and globally conscious citizens. At Friends' School Haverford, we provide a rigorous academic environment carefully crafted to nurture critical thinking, spark creativity, and foster collaborative skills. Within our inclusive and inspiring community, students are urged to delve into their interests, broaden their horizons, and nurture their unique talents. Friends' School Haverford presents a diverse array of extracurricular activities and impactful service opportunities. From athletics to artistic pursuits, and engagement in community se...
Read more