Second graders learn to measure length with a variety of tools, such as rulers, meter sticks, and measuring tapes. To learn measurement concepts and skills, students might use both simple rulers (e.g., having only whole units such as centimeters or inches) and physical units (e.g., manipulatives that are centimeter or inch lengths). Second graders also learn the concept of the inverse relationship between the size of the unit of length and the number of units required to cover a specific length or distance. For example, it will take more centimeter lengths to cover a certain distance than inch lengths because inches are the larger unit.
In Grade 2, students learn to combine and compare lengths using arithmetic operations to solve word problems. That is, they can add two lengths to obtain the length of the whole and subtract one length from another to find out the difference in lengths.
After experience with measuring, second graders learn to estimate lengths. Real-world applications of length often involve estimation. Skilled estimators move fluently back and forth between written or verbal length measurements and representations of their corresponding magnitudes on a mental ruler (also called the “mental number line”).
As students work with data in Grades K–5, they build foundations for their study of statistics and probability in Grades 6 and beyond, and they strengthen and apply what they are learning in arithmetic. Kindergarten work with data uses counting and order relations. First- and second-graders solve addition and subtraction problems in a data context. Students in Grade 2 draw a picture graph and a bar graph (with single-unit scale) to represent a data set with up to four categories. They solve simple put-together, take-apart, and compare problems using information presented in a bar graph.
Calculation Method for Domains
Domains are larger groups of related standards. The Domain Grade is a calculation of all the related standards. Click on the standard name below each Domain to access the learning targets and rubrics/ proficiency scales for individual standards within the domain.
Domain (MD)