Many 2nd graders struggle with the transition to more complex problem-solving, particularly in math where Common Core introduces multiple strategies for addition and subtraction. Reading fluency and comprehension also challenge students at this level, as texts become more sophisticated. Additionally, some students find it difficult to explain their thinking and reasoning—a key Common Core expectation.

With the 17.7:1 student-teacher ratio in Chicago schools, many students benefit from personalized 1-on-1 instruction to work through these challenges at their own pace and receive targeted feedback on their problem-solving approaches.

Personalized tutoring allows tutors to identify exactly where a student is struggling and tailor instruction to their learning style. Rather than moving at classroom pace, tutors can spend extra time on specific strategies—like different ways to solve addition problems—until your child truly understands the concept. This targeted approach is especially valuable for Common Core, which emphasizes deep understanding over rote memorization.

One-on-one instruction also gives students a safe space to explain their thinking and ask questions without worrying about keeping up with the class.

Yes. Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who understand Common Core standards and how they're implemented across Chicago's 12 school districts. Tutors can work with your child's specific textbooks, assignments, and classroom expectations to provide aligned support.

Whether your student attends a Chicago Public School or a private institution, tutors can help reinforce what's being taught in the classroom while filling in gaps in understanding.

By the end of 2nd grade, students should be able to read grade-level texts with growing fluency, understand main ideas and details, and answer questions about what they've read. In writing, they should compose simple narratives, informative pieces, and opinion pieces with beginning, middle, and end structure. Students also learn to use phonics and sight words strategically to decode unfamiliar words.

If your child is falling behind these benchmarks, personalized tutoring can help build reading confidence and writing skills through targeted practice and individualized feedback.

Common Core teaches that there's often more than one way to solve a math problem. For example, to solve 15 + 8, a student might use a number line, decompose numbers, or count on. This approach builds mathematical thinking and helps students choose the most efficient strategy for different problems. By 2nd grade, students should understand addition and subtraction conceptually, not just memorize facts.

Tutors can help your child become comfortable with multiple strategies and recognize when to use each one, creating a stronger foundation for future math learning.

Varsity Tutors makes it easy to connect with expert tutors in Chicago. You share your child's specific needs—whether it's building reading fluency, understanding math strategies, or strengthening writing skills—and we match you with a qualified tutor experienced in Common Core instruction.

Tutoring can be scheduled around your family's schedule, and you'll work with the same tutor for consistency and relationship-building, which is important for younger learners.