In second grade, science is not treated as a separate subject. It is fully integrated into the program. Students spend 45 minutes to an hour with Craig Newberger, the science specialist, every week. Beyond that, the children spend considerable time in class extending what they learned in science while developing skills in reading, writing, and math. The following themes are covered during the second grade year.

Incredible Insects (fall term)

Students investigate the characteristics and behavior of insects through a variety of activities both in the classroom and outdoors. They observe aquatic insects in the Wissahickon Creek, watch the life cycle of butterflies and ants, search for insects and related animals in the woods and fields around school, create their own insects, and play a variety of games that teach about insect adaptations.

Dinosaurs and Fossils (winter term)

Students travel back in time and glimpse what life was like in the days of the dinosaurs. Activities include making their own fossils, participating in a simulated fossil dig, constructing model dinosaurs, dinosaur crafts, dinosaur measuring activities, and dinosaur computer games.

Magnetic Science (spring term)

Students study the properties of magnets through a variety of "hands-on" activities. They find out what materials are magnetic, build their own mini-magnets, compare the strength of different types of magnets, investigate magnetic fields using iron filings, and learn how magnets and compasses are related.

This web site is maintained by the second grade teachers of Germantown Academy, Barbara Cipolloni, Nancy Jones, and Paul Savering. Site design and technical assistance furnished by Carol Siwinski, Curricular Technology Specialist.