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2-2 Homework – Ms. Deni

Reading

In second grade students need practice to solidify reading skills and build vocabulary, fluency and background knowledge. At this age, students should be able to read independently for at least 15-20 minutes every night. Help your child find a book that is right for him or her; your child should be able to give you a brief summary after reading if the book is at an appropriate level.

It really is best if your child reads every night.  The more practice students have with reading, the better. I understand that families are busy, and there will be nights when reading homework is not feasible. However, please do make an effort to set aside a time for reading each night. Make it part of your bedtime routine!

You can still read to your child!  Research shows that reading aloud (or telling stories) to children is one of the essential keys to learning how to read. This is also a wonderful way to bond with your child and promote a future love of reading. However, it is important to give your child the opportunity to practice his or her own reading as well.  Please continue to allow time for children to read independently in addition to reading with them. One way to do this is to take turns reading the same book!

What should your child read?  Anything! This should be a time for your child to find and explore books that are interesting and fun to read. Please help your child to find books that you think are appropriate for their age and reading level.  If you are looking for suggestions, please contact me.

Physical Activity

The CDC recommends that children and adolescents should do 60 minutes or more of physical activity every day.  (http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/children.html)

While we will have physical education (P.E.) class as part of our curriculum, it will not total 60 minutes every day.  This is why I believe it is so important that your child spend additional time outside of school being active.  The CDC website referenced above has some great ideas of how to be active, but here are a few to get you started:

  • Go for a family walk or bike ride after dinner
  • Play tag with a friend
  • Do jumping jacks, sit ups, planks, or push-ups on commercial breaks of your favorite television program
  • There are many video games that require active movement (Wii Fit, Just Dance, EA Sports Active, etc.)
  • Go swimming, do stretches, yoga, dance, walk the dog
  • Help with chores – yard work and vacuuming are two great examples of physical exercise!

Please know that I will not be tracking or recording your homework.  Reading and exercise are their own reward.  Start now to build these healthy habits to last a lifetime.  Your whole self will thank you.

Have fun exercising your brain and your body!

Ms. Deni

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