In second grade, children strengthen their basic skills to read longer texts. They should be able to read and write many letter patterns and sight words by the end of the school year. Second grade children continue to build their vocabulary through reading. They also learn different ways to think and write about fiction and non-fiction text. Fiction is a made-up story, and non-fiction is real information with facts such as news articles, biographies, and how-to books. Help your child become a strong reader by developing strong reader habits and practicing the skills below.