Writing Skills
Second graders are developing their writing fluency-the ability to write for a sustained period of time on one topic, using their knowledge of letter/sound relationships, punctuation, sight words(which often have irregular spellings), grade level spelling words called "word wall words" etc., as they develop their skills.
In the fall, second graders should:
By the end of second grade, second graders should:
Things Parents Can Do to Encourage Writing
In the fall, second graders should:
- Place appropriate spaces between words
- Use upper and lowercase letters appropriately
- Consistently use correct basic capitalization and punctuation
- Write using correct beginning, middle and ending "sounds" to write unknown words
- Use and spell "Word Wall" spelling words consistently in daily assignments
- Be able to read their own writing when sharing with others
- Organize sentences based on the topic
- Plan stories (use a graphic organizer, make a list, etc.)
- Be able to begin to use voice, audience and purpose in writing
By the end of second grade, second graders should:
- Continue to use sight words and grade level spelling words correctly
- Consistently use correct capitalization, punctuation, sentence structure, tense and verb/subject agreement
- Organize writing with a beginning, middle and end
- Choose a main topic to write about
- Add details to support the main idea
- Use paragraphs
- Begin to use transitions ( First, Second, Next, Then, Finally, etc.)
- Revise a first draft with a partner or support from an adult
- Produce a variety of writings (poems, stories, letters, personal narratives as well as research)
- Use the writing process (Drafting, Revising, Editing and Publishing)
Things Parents Can Do to Encourage Writing
- Write letters to family and friends and encourage them to write back.
- Encourage your child to write about their favorite things. Keep a journal.
- Read comics together and encourage your child to create his/her own.
- Use fun writing tools: markers, gel pens, crayons, colored pencils, etc.
- Have your child create the family's shopping list
- Take turns writing back and forth to your child. Leave a note by your child's bed, in his/her lunchbox, etc.
- Play word games like Hangman. This is a great way to pass the time while you're waiting in a restaurant, doctor's office, etc.
- Display your child's writing in a special place!
- Encourage your child to plan, draft, revise and then publish writing.
- Publish your child's writing yourself by typing a final copy of a special story or use the computer to create a book or digital photo story that can be shared with family and friends.