Second & Third Grade: March 9 - 13, 2026
Hello Second and Third Grade Families,
Last week we began our study of stories from the ancient Sumerians and Akkadians. These stories are introduced as a first look at ancient civilizations, which the students will study more fully in the upper grades. In the lower grades, the children do not yet explore the full culture, geography, and history of the Sumerians and Akkadians, though they do learn some background information to help them understand the context of the stories.
For example, the children learned that the Sumerians and Akkadians lived in an area called Mesopotamia. They learned that it was located between two rivers and that it was one of the world’s first civilizations. They also learned that the Sumerians and Akkadians invented the first wheel: a pottery wheel. Next week, we will create clay pots on a pottery wheel in class.
Last week the children heard the Sumerian creation story, which tells of several gods working together to create the first humans. They also heard the story of a great flood caused by the god of wisdom, Enki, which destroyed all life except that of Ziusudra. Several students were able to draw comparisons between these stories and other creation stories they have heard, such as the Cherokee creation story, the Hebrew creation story, and the story of Noah and the flood, which the third graders heard during the previous school year. This week the students will hear the story of Marduk from the Akkadian story Enuma Elish.
This week we will also review math skills learned earlier in the year. The children will review subtraction with and without regrouping and look at the connection between addition and subtraction with the assistance of fact families.
Announcements & Reminders:
Grandfriends Day is coming soon! Wednesday, April 1st, you, grandparents, and other special grownups in your child’s life are welcome to join us in our forest classroom for light refreshments and time to enjoy your student in their school environment! Guests are also encouraged to attend the Grade performance at 10:30 a.m. Please remember to e-mail your visiting guest information by Friday, March 27th.
March 18–19: Picture Day - Class photos will be taken, along with a makeup opportunity for students who missed photos in the fall
April 1: Grandfriends Tea at 11:00 (All students and family members are welcome to join)(Full day)
April 6-10: Spring Break (No School)
Warm regards,
Ki Meredith
