In the second grade, children continue their mathematics education. Teachers build upon the lessons used in the first grade to continue educating students. Once again, parents are often expected to help reinforce these fundamental skills outside of the classroom.

The following attempts to aid parents in understanding which math skills are taught in the second grade. Because they are based on the California Department of Education standards, these skills may be different than those required in other states.

Coursework for Grade Two Math

According to the California Department of Education website, www.cde.ca.gov, second graders should be able to understand addition and subtraction, as well as simple multiplication. By the end of the second grade, students should be familiar with the concept of numbers from 1 to 1,000. They should also be able to find the sum or difference of two whole numbers up to three digits long, also known as long addition and subtraction. Second graders will also learn the multiplication tables of twos, fives and 10s.

In order to commit these skills to memory, teachers are likely to send home worksheets. Parents can aid students with addition, subtraction and multiplication through the use of tangible objects. Allow students to use coins or buttons to represent the math function used in the worksheet. Being able to visualize the problem often helps students complete the math in their head.

Measurements and Time

Students also continue their education in measurement and geometry in the second grade. During the school year they learn how to compare and contrast different measurement units.

By the end of the year, a student should be able to so measure the length of an object to the nearest inch and/or centimeter. Time should be able to be told to the nearest quarter hour as students learn how to determine duration of intervals of time in hours or fractional hours

Introduction to Geometry

Geometry is also taught in the second grade, as students learn about circles, triangles, squares, rectangles, spheres, pyramids, cubes, and prisms. Students should be able to identify each according to the number and shape of faces, edges and vertices. Parents can help their children with homework and learning these skills by relating them to objects around the house.

Math and Parental Involvement

Math can be fun and exciting for second graders; especially when their parents are involved in the homework. Parents are encouraged to stay involved with their child's education and maintain an open line of communication with their child's teachers in order to learn ways they can assist with math homework outside of the classroom.