Units Covered in 2nd Grade

Below you will find the units that we cover in our classroom throughout the year.  The Colorado Department of Education standards (found here) help guide my teaching along with the DPS curriculum.  I adapt my teaching daily based on the needs of my students.  Also, if you have anything you'd like to share with me (for example, you might work as a geologist and would like to present for our class) PLEASE let me know!  I want to provide my students with as many real life experiences as possible-all help is appreciated!

Earth Materials



We learn about the types of rock and minerals.  We also learn about the water cycle, fresh water and salt water supplies through songs, experiments and a variety of activities.  We also explore solids, liquids, and gases.

Investigating Plants


We learn about how to grow and take care of plants and do experiments to further our learning.  We learn the parts of a plant and seed, as well as going on a field trip to the Botanic Gardens for their plant exploration day!  We will also be using songs to help us as we explore plants!

Simple Machines

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This year we are learning all about simple machines!  I am currently working on grants that would allow me to use the LEGO Simple Machine kits as I recently saw them at a training.  I am hoping that when we get to this unit I will have enough kits for all the kids to use.  If not, we'll share! :)  We learn all about levers, pulleys, wheel and axles, inclined planes, wedges, and screws in this engaging unit.  Also, we learn about the three laws of motion.