Grade 2 Science: how to help at home
What your child learns in Grade 2 science in the Manitoba Curriculum, and simple things to try at home.
The Big Ideas this year
- How does temperature affect matter?
- In what ways does the environment provide the necessities of life?
- Where do living organisms come from and what do they need to survive?
Easy ways to practise science at home
- Try a kitchen experiment, such as what dissolves in water and what floats or sinks.
- Keep a simple weather or moon log for a month.
- Ask “What do you think will happen?” and then test it.
- Visit a park, beach or creek and look for living things and their habitats.
What each unit covers
Think Like a Scientist
How scientists and engineers work: tools for measuring, fair tests, safety, sharing results, simple algorithms and how new technology changes everyday life.
Solids & Liquids
Sorting solids and liquids, describing melting, freezing and boiling, and changes that can or can't be undone.
Water World
The water cycle, where our water comes from, and simple ways to save water and keep rivers clean.
Air and Weather
The atmosphere and its characteristics: air takes up space, wind is moving air, and weather can be observed and measured with simple tools.
Air & Water for Life
Air takes up space, the three states of water, why all living things need clean air and water, and how people can protect and share water.
Plants, Animals and Energy
Animals get energy by eating plants or other animals, plants capture energy from the Sun, and all animals depend on plants.
Life Cycles
Life cycles of butterflies, frogs and BC salmon, and how babies compare with their parents.
What the report card levels look like at home
- Level 1
- Just getting started with this idea. Short, regular practice with lots of support helps most.
- Level 2
- Understands parts of it and is building confidence. Keep practising the tricky parts.
- Level 3
- Has it! Mixed review now and then keeps it strong.
- Level 4
- Applies it confidently, even in new or harder situations. Try challenge mode and real-life problems.
Your child’s teacher decides the level on the report card. Read the Manitoba report card guide.
Common questions
How can I help my Grade 2 child with science?
Try a kitchen experiment, such as what dissolves in water and what floats or sinks. Keep a simple weather or moon log for a month. Keep sessions short, about 10 to 15 minutes, and stop on a success.
What does my child learn in Grade 2 science in Manitoba?
The Manitoba Curriculum Grade 2 science units include think like a scientist, solids & liquids, water world, air and weather, air & water for life, plants, animals and energy.
Free printable Grade 2 science practice sheet
Questions from every unit, with an answer key.