Social Emotional Learning (Grade 2)

Open Circle

In Norfolk Public Schools, we believe that students’ social and emotional development is a vital part of their educational experience. Supportive, inclusive classrooms help children grow both academically and personally. In second grade, students further develop their social and emotional skills as they strengthen their sense of responsibility and independence through the Open Circle program. 

Secondary Curricular Resource: Aperture Lessons

Aperture Lessons are short, teacher-led learning experiences designed to strengthen specific social-emotional skills identified through the class-wide DESSA-mini screening. When results show that students may benefit from support in areas such as self-management, relationship skills, or decision-making, teachers can use Aperture Lessons to provide focused, developmentally appropriate instruction that builds those competencies. These interactive, practical lessons are easy to integrate into daily routines and help students practice key SEL skills in meaningful ways. 

SEL, Term 1

• Beginning Together

• Bullying Prevention

Unity Day (This lesson helps students understand the importance of showing kindness, acceptance, inclusion and standing united against bullying.)

• Managing Ourselves

Identity Lesson (This lesson helps students explain what identity is and describe aspects of their identity and others'.)

SEL, Term 2

• Managing Ourselves (continued)

Everyone's a Helper (This lesson helps students understand the concepts of strengths, struggles, and what it means to help.)

• Strengthening Relationships

iCare: Ability Awareness (This lesson helps students understand what a disability is, learn about differing abilities, and the importance of including everyone.)

• How to Sort  Problems

 

SEL, Term 3

• Problem Solving

What is Empathy? (This lesson explicitly teaches students to be more conscious of other people’s feelings to create a more accepting and respectful school community.)

 

 

Competency in these report card standards are the end-of-year goals.

Learner Qualities:

• Identifies and communicates feelings and needs
• Demonstrates self-control
• Works independently
• Manages transitions and adapts to changes in routine
• Sustains attention to task
• Follows classroom rules and routines
• Participates in class activities
• Listens carefully and follows directions
• Cooperates and interacts well with others
• Makes appropriate choices about personal behavior