What Do Second Graders Learn? Overview, Subjects, & Skills

Second grade is an important time in a child’s life as they explore their abilities further across math, science, English (reading, writing, vocabulary, and more!), and social studies. These subjects are core to what second graders learn.

Building on the strong foundation laid in first grade, kids delve deeper into various 2nd-grade subjects. To understand the progression, it’s helpful to review the core concepts covered in first grade. Head over to our ‘What 1st Graders Learn‘ blog post to get a glimpse. 

What Are the Subjects Taught in 2nd Grade? 

So, what is taught to kids in 2nd grade? What can parents and educators expect from second graders? This resource will provide excellent insights for parents who want to know what is taught to kids in 2nd grade. While each school has its way of progressing with the 2nd grade, you should be aware of best practices and expected outcomes.

This guide is perfect for creating a go-to second-grade skills checklist and understanding how we can help them blossom into confident, curious learners. So buckle up and get ready to discover the magic of second grade! 

1. Mathematics in 2nd Grade

Second graders learn about counting, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and various mathematical concepts. They get to understand the real-world applications of numbers through concepts such as measurement, quantities, money, etc.

When teaching math to 2nd graders, incorporating visual aids and hands-on activities can significantly enhance their understanding. So, let’s understand what 2nd graders learn in math, along with fun activities parents can use to reinforce these skills at home:

I. Number Sense: 

a. Skip-counting by 5s, 10s, and 100s. 

i) Number Charts: Use a number chart and have them skip-count by 5s, 10s, and 100s aloud (e.g., “5, 10, 15…” or “100, 200, 300…”).

ii) Skip Counting Games: Reinforce skip counting skills with fun, interactive games! Kids can practice using number charts and counting objects in sets (such as in pairs). 

They also enjoy exciting skip-counting adventures in a game called Sky Lands. In this game, kids help the character jump from rock to rock by finding the correct skip-counting number in the sequence.

b. Understanding place value in 3-digit numbers. Writing 3-digit numbers in the expanded form. 

i) Manipulatives: Give them base-ten blocks or draw diagrams to represent numbers like 567 using hundreds, tens, and ones. You can also use household items (e.g., straws, sticks, or blocks) to represent hundreds, tens, and ones.

ii) Number Cards: Write different 3-digit numbers (e.g., 342) on one set of cards and their corresponding expanded forms (e.g., 300 + 40 + 2) on another set of cards. Mix them up and ask your child to match each number with its expanded form. 

iii) Interactive Place Value Games: In these activities, kids will build 3-digit numbers, use base-ten blocks to create 3-digit numbers, and learn to identify place value of 3-digit numbers using the place value chart.

c. Comparing 3-digit numbers.

i) Compare Number Cards: Play a game where they draw cards with 3-digit numbers and compare the numbers, explaining why one is greater or less than the other.

ii) Interactive number comparison games: In these games, kids will select the greatest and smallest numbers in a group of numbers to make a way to help the character complete its journey. Kids will also learn to use the place value chart for comparison.

II. Addition and Subtraction:

• Fluently add and subtract within 20 using mental strategies (counting on, making ten, decomposing a number leading to a ten, using the relationship between addition and subtraction, and creating equivalent but easier or known sums).

i) ​​Give them a starting number (e.g., 8) and ask them to count on mentally to add (e.g., “8 + 5: Start at 8 and count on 5 more”).

ii) Ask them to solve problems like “9 + 7” by making a ten: “Take 1 from 7 and add it to 9, so it becomes 10 + 6.”

iii) Consider using math games that challenge kids to practice different addition and subtraction strategies through engaging activities:

• 2-digit addition and subtraction using place value.

i) Write a problem with four two-digit numbers (e.g., 23 + 45) and have them add the tens first (20 + 40 = 60), then the ones (3 + 5 = 8), and finally combine the results (60 + 8 = 68).

ii) Help kids learn 2-digit addition and subtraction through games. Kids will practice 2-digit addition using base-ten blocks and place value charts. Best of all, these games support kids every step of the way, providing immediate feedback:

iii) Encourage daily practice with engaging worksheets. Kids will use place value cards, column method, and base-ten blocks to add and subtract numbers.

• Add and subtract within 1000.

i) Use base-ten blocks (or draw blocks) to represent hundreds, tens, and ones, and have them add or subtract by physically grouping or removing blocks.

ii) Ask them to break down numbers by place value for addition or subtraction, such as solving “537 + 249” by adding hundreds (500 + 200), tens (30 + 40), and ones (7 + 9). 

iii) Give them problems like “652 – 318” and guide them to subtract hundreds, tens, and ones step by step (e.g., subtract 600 – 300, then 50 – 10, then 2 – 8, regrouping when necessary).

iv) Reinforce 3-digit addition through fun games. Kids will use place value charts and base-10 models to practice addition and subtraction:

III. Multiplication Basics: 

a. Determine whether a group of objects (up to 20) has an odd or even number of members (e.g., by pairing objects or counting them by 2s). 

i) Pairing Objects: Give kids a group of objects (e.g., 12 blocks) and ask them to pair the objects. If every object has a pair, the number is even. If one object is left without a pair, the number is odd.

ii) Even or Odd? Games: Help kids identify even and odd numbers using these fun games. Kids will use 10-frames or blocks as visual help:

b. Use addition to find the total number of objects arranged in rectangular arrays with up to 5 rows and 5 columns. Write an equation to express the total as a sum of equal addends.

i) Use small objects like buttons or coins and arrange them in arrays (e.g., 3 rows of 4 objects). Have your child count the objects in each row and use addition to find the total (e.g., 4 + 4 + 4 = 12).

ii) Arrange small items (like marbles or blocks) in equal groups. For example, create 4 groups of 3 objects each. Ask your child to count the total number of objects and write an equation (e.g., 3 + 3 + 3 + 3 = 12).

iii) Teach multiplication strategies with fun games on arrays and equal groups. These games use everyday objects and hands-on activities to help kids learn the concept of repeated addition. Kids will learn to work with arrays and equal groups to write multiplication sentences, model repeated addition, and count the total number of items.

IV. Measurement:

• Measuring lengths indirectly and by iterating length units, relating addition and subtraction to length.

i) Help kids measure their desk or a book using small objects (e.g., buttons or LEGO pieces).

ii) Ask them to choose an appropriate tool to measure items around the house or classroom to the nearest inch or centimeter.

iii) Length Estimation: Ask them to guess the length of a book, then measure it with a ruler to check how close their estimate was.

iv) Length measurement games: Reinforce these skills through interactive visual games. Encourage kids to measure and estimate lengths of everyday objects through fun gameplay:

v) Measure two different objects, such as a pencil and a spoon, and ask them to calculate how much longer one is than the other using a ruler or tape measure.

vi) Draw two lines of different lengths on a board and ask them to add or subtract to determine how much longer or shorter one is than the other.

vii) Create a number line on paper, marking 0, 1, 2, 3, etc., and have them practice representing sums or differences within 100 by moving a small object (like a coin) along the number line.

• Telling and writing time from analog and digital clocks in 5-minute increments, using A.M. and P.M.; developing an understanding of the use of quarter past, half past, and quarter to.

i) Set up an analog clock to different 5-minute increments (e.g., 3:15, 4:45), and ask them to write the time.

ii) Relate to Daily Activities: Throughout the day, ask your child to write down key events (e.g., breakfast, playtime, bedtime) and the corresponding time in both digital and analog form. Use terms like “quarter past,” “half past,” or “quarter to” as appropriate (e.g., “We eat lunch at 12:15 P.M. – that’s quarter past 12!”). 

iii) Master Telling Time with Fun Games: Help kids tackle game-based telling time challenges, such as setting an analog clock, reading time, finding elapsed time, and more!

iv) Create a life-size analog clock on the floor using household items. Move the hands on an analog clock to “quarter past” times (e.g., 1:15, 3:15) and explain that it’s 15 minutes after the hour. Do the same for “half past” (e.g., 2:30, 4:30) and “quarter to” (e.g., 4:45, 7:45). Ask them to say and write the time.

• Counting a mixed collection of coins whose sum is less than or equal to one dollar; ​​solving real-world and mathematical problems within one dollar involving quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies, the cent symbol appropriately.

i) Create a bingo board with amounts less than $1 (e.g., 45¢, 75¢). Call out a coin collection (e.g., “3 dimes and 2 nickels”), and they mark off the matching total.

ii) Create problem cards with real-world situations (e.g., “You have 3 dimes, 2 nickels, and 4 pennies. You want to buy a toy that costs 50 cents. Do you have enough? How much will you have left?”).

iii) Make learning about money math super fun through counting money games! Kids will learn to solve different money problems, get immediate feedback, and build confidence for real-world money situations!

V. Geometry: 

a) Recognize and draw shapes with specified attributes. 

• Provide a list of shape attributes (e.g., “Draw a triangle with one right angle” or “Draw a hexagon with all equal sides”). Ask your child to draw shapes that match the given criteria, then discuss how the attributes define the shape. 
• Here are some engaging worksheets you can use to help your child identify and draw shapes with different attributes:

• Create a “Mystery Shape” game: Describe a shape using its attributes (e.g., “This shape has six sides of equal length and six angles”) and have your child identify or draw the shape (hexagon, in this case).

b) Partitioning a rectangle into rows and columns of same-size squares and counts to find the total number of them. 

i) Have your child draw a rectangle and divide it into equal rows and columns using a ruler. Then, ask them to count the total number of squares by using addition or multiplication (e.g., 4 rows of 5 squares = 4 + 4 + 4 + 4 = 20 squares).

ii) Give them small objects like coins or blocks and ask them to arrange them in rows and columns to represent a partitioned rectangle.

c) Partitioning circles and rectangles into halves, thirds, and quarters. 

i) Paper Folding: Give your child a piece of paper in the shape of a circle or rectangle. Ask them to fold it into halves, thirds, or quarters and then unfold it to see the partitions. Count and label each section to reinforce the concept.

ii) Use play dough to shape circles and rectangles and divide them into equal parts.

iii) Interactive Partitioning Shapes Games: In these games, kids will identify partitions and count equal parts.

d) Identifying triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, hexagons, and cubes. 

i) Use shape flashcards to help kids identify and remember different shapes.

ii) Games on Identifying Shapes: In these games, kids will learn to identify shapes, sort them by names and attributes, and identify shapes in everyday objects.

VI. Data Handling

In 2nd grade, kids are introduced to the exciting world of data graphs, starting with picture graphs and bar graphs. These visual tools help young learners organize, analyze, and interpret information in a meaningful way. By understanding how to read and create these graphs, children develop essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

• Draw a picture graph and a bar graph (with a single-unit scale) to represent a data set with up to four categories.  Solve simple word problems (put-together, take-apart, and compare) using information presented in the graph. 

i) ​​Choose a topic with four categories (e.g., “Favorite Fruits: Apples, Bananas, Grapes, Oranges”). Have the students survey their classmates or family members and place the corresponding images or stickers in each category.

ii) Create simple bar graph templates for kids. Then, the kids can simply look at the data values and draw the bar graph.

iii) Many second graders need help staying engaged when learning about graphs. Not all kids are visual learners. Help kids create and read data graphs using interactive games that guide them at every step.

2. Phonics and Word Recognition in 2nd Grade

Second grade is a pivotal year for language arts development. Students are blossoming into readers, writers, and thinkers, and their skills are growing rapidly. From decoding words to reading complex words, second graders are embarking on a fascinating journey of language exploration.

Here are foundations reading skills (phonics and word recognition) kids learn in 2nd grade, along with practical ways you can support your child’s learning journey:

• Distinguish long and short vowels when reading regularly spelled one-syllable words (including common vowel teams). Decode short and long vowel sounds in two-syllable words.  

i) Write a list of one-syllable words (e.g., “cat,” “cake,” “sit,” “site”) and have them sort the words into two categories: short vowels and long vowels.

ii) Read a short story together and ask them to identify words with short and long vowels as they listen.

iii) Give them two-syllable words with short and long vowels (e.g., “sunset,” “weekend”) and have them clap for each syllable as they read and identify the vowel sounds.

iv) Help kids explore vowel teams and vowel sounds using fun worksheets. Kids will enjoy fun activities like choosing the correct sound to complete a word, identifying the vowel team a picture contains, matching pictures with vowel teams, etc.

v) Here are some exciting games to boost kids’ phonics and decoding skills: In these games, kids will explore words with diphthongs and triple blends, sequence letters to make words, and guess the sounds for the given words.

Related Reading: How to Teach Phonics to Kids

• Read all common high-frequency words by sight.

i) Use flashcards with common high-frequency words and time them to see how quickly they can read through the deck.

ii) Create a word wall with common high-frequency words. Ask them to find and point out specific words as quickly as possible.

iii) Speed reading: Set a one-minute timer and see how many high-frequency words they can correctly read from a list.

iv) Play these sight word games that beautifully blend reading with fun activities. Kids will read and listen to a sight word and try to spot it in a group of other words. Through repeated practice, these games ensure kids remember the essential sight words and their sounds.

• Decode regularly spelled two-syllable words:

i) Syllable Puzzle: Cut two-syllable words (like “sunshine” or “market”) in half and have them match the syllables to form complete words.

ii) Break It Down: Write two-syllable words on paper and ask them to break the word down by syllables, sounding out each part before saying the full word.

​​Teaching a child to read can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure of the steps or methods to use. Many parents wonder how to make the process enjoyable for their children. This blog provides clear, easy-to-follow steps that help parents confidently teach their child to read, making the process smooth, fun, and effective: How to Teach Kids to Read: 9 Easy Tips

3. Reading Comprehension in 2nd Grade

Reading comprehension is a core skill that all second graders should be adept at. A research study on reading behaviors in 2nd graders found that proficient second-grade readers are skilled problem-solvers who use a variety of strategies to understand literary and informational text. They are able to read fluently, identify and correct errors, and draw on their knowledge of language and the world to make meaning.

Examples of literary and informational texts:

LITERATURE	INFORMATIONAL TEXTS
Novels, picture books, stories, short stories, drama, poetry, fiction, fairytales, plays, nursery rhymes, folk tales, tall tales, and other literary texts	Non-fiction, biographies, autobiographies, books and articles about science, art, history, and social studies, encyclopedias, news articles, scientific articles, and information displayed in charts, graphs, or maps.

Here are essential reading comprehension skills kids learn in 2nd grade:

• Understanding of key ideas and details in a text.

i) After reading a short text, provide a list of sentences and have them sort them into “main idea” and “key details.” 

ii) Here are some worksheets targeting the skill through fun activities, such as :

iii) Ask them basic questions after reading (e.g., “Who is the story about?”, “What happened?”, “Where did it take place?”, “Why did it happen?”). This helps them focus on key details.

• Understanding story elements and/or topics by applying information gained from illustrations or text features.

i) Before reading a story, take a “picture walk” through the book, focusing on the illustrations. Ask them to predict the story elements (characters, setting, events) based on what they see.

ii) Give them an informational text with headings, captions, and diagrams. Ask them to find text features and explain how each feature helps them better understand the topic.

iii) Use these printable worksheets to give your child a head start. Kids will learn to identify different parts of a story, such as characters, settings, events, etc.

• Explain how specific points the author or illustrator makes in a text are supported by relevant reasons. 

i) Give them different types of texts (stories, articles, ads) and ask them to identify if the author’s purpose is to “inform,” “persuade,” or “entertain.”

ii) Provide a graphic organizer with two columns: one for the author’s points and another for the reasons supporting those points. Ask them to fill it in after reading.

iii) Help kids build confidence in their reasoning skills with these engaging worksheets:

Parents often struggle to find the right books to spark their child’s reading journey. Pick the right books that balance fun and learning. Here’s a diverse collection of books for 2nd graders: 

Book 1: Out in the Forest

Book 2: Piggy Is Not Afraid

Book 3: Up in the Sky

These books combine engaging narratives with language lessons. For instance, the book “Out in the Forest” teaches words with trigraphs through a fun animated story. Similarly, Oddbods books are fun and colorful, featuring the quirky and lovable Oddbods characters. They explore themes like friendship, emotions, and problem-solving, making them perfect for young readers.

Related Reading: 25 Books for 2nd-Graders to Ignite Their Love for Reading

4. Writing Skills in 2nd Grade

Writing skills are essential in second grade, with kids learning the differences between opinion pieces, narratives, informative pieces, etc. Teachers also instruct children to write journals, create works of fiction, and write about daily activities virtually and in person.

Writing fundamentals, such as spelling, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization, will also be more evident to kids in the second grade. Teachers may also encourage kids to write, draw, and paint stories to understand why writing is essential in communication.

Here are essential writing skills and activities to support your child’s learning:

• Writing an opinion about a topic or personal experience using clear reasons and relevant evidence.

i) Pick a Side: Present a fun topic (e.g., “Is pizza better than ice cream?”) and have them write their opinion, providing two reasons to support it.

ii) Personal Experience Chart: Have them write an opinion about a personal experience (e.g., “My favorite vacation was…”) and back it up with reasons and examples from their experience.

• Writing narratives about real or imagined events, including details about actions, thoughts, and feelings. Use words to show the order of events and create a satisfying ending.

i) Story Starters: Provide story prompts (e.g., “Once, I found a hidden treasure…”) and have them write what happens next, using words like “first,” “then,” and “finally” to show the order of events.

ii) Emotions Chart: As they write their narrative, ask them to use an emotions chart to describe how the characters feel at different points in the story.

iii) Writing Worksheets: Check out these printable creative-writing worksheets for 2nd graders. Help kids write their own stories!