Second graders are introduced to the topic of energy. They learn that all changes that occur in matter do so by the influence of one or more forms of energy. This is true of changes in water, rocks, plants, and the bodies of animals, including children as they grow. Students explore some of the properties of light and heat as two major forms of energy. They learn that changes in light and heat can cause many other things to change as well.
Seasonal changes bring about many changes in nature.
The appearance of the landscape changes, and both plants and animals adapt to new conditions. Students will also become acquainted with the difficult ways animals care for their young. Changes in plants and animals can be naturally observed as students compare and contrast changes that occur with each season. Students already have a basic understanding of the seasons from Kindergarten. Students in second grade are starting to see relationships between ideas and should be able to draw conclusions about how the seasons influence changes in the appearance and behavior of plants and animals.