Homeschool by grade
Homeschool 2nd Grade
In second grade reading becomes more fluent and math moves to bigger numbers. It is a good year to start short written narrations and a little independent work.
Ages 7 to 8About 2 to 3 hours a day
What to teach in 2nd grade
What children typically learn by the end of the year. Use it as a guide, not a rule: homeschoolers can go faster or slower in each subject.
Math
- Add and subtract within 100, with regrouping
- Place value to 1,000
- Count money and make change
- Tell time to five minutes
- Begin multiplication as equal groups
Reading
- Read early chapter books
- Decode words with two syllables
- Retell main idea and details
- Read with expression
Writing
- Write a short paragraph
- Use capitals, periods and question marks correctly
- Begin cursive (optional)
Science
- Habitats
- Solids, liquids and gases
- How land and water change over time
Social studies
- US map: states, oceans and continents
- Citizenship and community
- Biographies of important Americans
By the end of the year
- Reads early chapter books
- Adds and subtracts two-digit numbers
- Counts money
- Writes a short paragraph
A sample day
| 8:30 | Read-aloud and memory work |
| 9:00 | Phonics, reading and spelling |
| 9:40 | Math lesson and practice |
| 10:20 | Break and outdoor time |
| 10:45 | Handwriting and writing |
| 11:15 | Science or history (alternate days) |
| Afternoon | Independent reading, art, music, chores |
Tips for this year
- Introduce a simple checklist your child can follow alone.
- Keep a reading log: it is easy proof of progress.
- Mix in games for math facts.
Rules for notice, attendance and testing depend on where you live: see your state’s homeschool law.
Choosing curriculum
Free tools for this grade
Questions parents ask
Should my 2nd grader learn cursive?
Many families start cursive in 2nd or 3rd grade once print is comfortable. It is optional in most states.
How much independent work can a 2nd grader do?
Usually 10 to 20 minutes at a time on familiar work, like a math page or silent reading.