Things a Second Grade Parent Needs to Know

Common Core Expectations Students will demonstrate real skills and knowledge, not just an ability to pass a test. The new standards require students to think critically, to work cooperatively, and to problem solve creatively—skills critical for success in the workplace and for the jobs of tomorrow.

What is Common Core The Common Core State Standards Initiative is a national effort to establish a single set of clear educational standards for Kindergarten through 12th grade across the United States. The educational focus is more specific and instead of providing students with bits and pieces of a variety of concepts they are allowed to focus for a longer period on important realistic ideas.

Common Core and FCAT In 2014, at least 46 states will adopted and implement this initiative creating a educational commonality that will unit school districts on a national level all across the United States. In third grade students will face the FCAT 2.0 and the new Common Core assessment tool.

This Year’s Assessment We are heading into the final weeks of school and there is still more work to be done! How can you help you child be successful?

The End of the Year Assessment Did you know your child will be tested during FCAT? They will be taking an end of the year assessment to measure their current learning gains and in Preparation for FCAT 2.0. Administration Dates: April 15th through 19th Mathematics and Reading Please note these are the Elementary level Assessment dates. The upper grades begin at an earlier date.

How can you help you child be successful? They should get a good nights rest Eat a healthy breakfast each morning Begin and end your child’s day with positive words of encouragement Your child should Arrive at school by 8:15 A.M Dress appropriately

Summer Help Don’t forget, if you child is an ESOL student they maybe able to attend PAEC’s summer program. Some students may be invited to attend Gadsden County’s summer reading camp. Complete their summer learning packets! Visit the local library and read all summer long!

Getting Ready For Third Grade Students will be expected to know basic addition, subtraction and multiplication facts Students should read at least 90 wpm at the start of 3rd Grade Reading passages or books should be at least level 2.6 or higher Know the UNRAAVEL strategy Keep a summer writing journal

Helpful Links www.Sraimagineit.com Pbskids.org http://www.storylineonline.net/ www.Starfall.com www.Funbrain.com http://www.scholastic.com/kids/stacks/games/ www.thinkcentral.com