Course Description
The Grade 2 Science program is not only designed to help students understand the world around them but also to spark curiosity, develop purposeful observation skills, explain phenomena, and ask scientific questions based on evidence.
Following the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Grade 2 marks a shift from simple observation to skills in classifying, explaining, and basic modeling. Students learn to connect personal experiences with fundamental scientific concepts, while beginning to form logical thinking to explain natural and technological phenomena in their surroundings.
We continue to apply the 5E Instructional Model (Engage – Explore – Explain – Elaborate – Evaluate), with activities becoming increasingly complex so that Grade 2 students not only “think like scientists” but also “practice like professional explorers.”
Learning Content
Organized into 4 key domains:
- Life Science
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Identify plant and animal features
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Compare habitats (forest, ocean, desert)
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Understand life cycles and survival needs
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Explore human–environment relationships
2. Earth & Space Science
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Observe weather phenomena
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Study seasonal changes and effects on nature
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Understand natural resources and conservation
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Identify sun and moon in the sky
3. Physical Science
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Classify objects by color, state, material
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Explore push-pull forces, motion, sound, light
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Observe physics in daily life
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Learn how energy works (light bulbs, batteries, heat)
4. STEM
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Design/test models (paper bridges, balloon cars…)
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Use recycled or natural materials for creative challenges
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Collaborate in roles (engineer, designer, observer)
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Develop communication and logical thinking
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Present via drawings, models, and mini presentations
Teaching Approach & Methodology
In Grade 2, science learning should fully nurture children’s abilities to observe, describe, and take direct action. Therefore, the program is designed as a comprehensive scientific exploration journey—where students not only receive knowledge but also discover – explain – recreate – and generate understanding from their own experiences.
We integrate the 5E Instructional Model (Engage – Explore – Explain – Elaborate – Evaluate) with age-appropriate learning strategies:
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Visual Observation and Sketch-Based Note-taking
Students are encouraged to record their observations through drawings, symbols, and diagrams. This approach helps them model their initial thinking and develop core scientific observation skills. -
Hands-on Experiments
Children learn by doing—planting seeds, sorting objects, designing simple models. These activities allow them to grasp the essence of phenomena through direct action, strengthening logical thinking. -
Game-Based Learning and Collaborative Tasks
Using science games, small-group challenges, and role-play, students learn while having fun. Taking on roles such as engineer, scientist, or presenter fosters teamwork and public speaking skills. -
Questioning and Early Hypothesis Formation
Students are guided to ask science-based questions using prompts like “Why…?” or “What will happen if…?”, thereby developing early critical thinking and the ability to predict based on observation. -
Science Journaling
Learners maintain a science journal using simple words or drawings to reflect on what they have discovered, their feelings, or lingering questions—building the habit of post-lesson reflection. -
5E Instructional Model in Practice
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Engage – Spark curiosity with a question, video, or surprising phenomenon
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Explore – Students carry out experiments, build models, or make observations
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Explain – Discuss and interpret phenomena with teacher guidance
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Elaborate – Apply knowledge to new situations or extend the lesson
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Evaluate – Self-assess, present findings, or submit learning products
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The ultimate goal is to equip students with scientific learning skills, quick thinking, self-confidence, and excitement—ready to advance to higher grades with an active and inquisitive mindset.
Lessons:
