Grade 2 Reading — Everyday Life

A Trip to the Farmers Market

On Saturday morning, Marco and his dad walked to the farmers market downtown. Colorful tents lined the street, and musicians played near the fountain. Marco carried a cloth bag while his dad read the list: apples, spinach, honey, and bread. At the first booth, a farmer let Marco feel the bumpy skin of a butternut squash. Another vendor sliced a peach so Marco could taste how sweet it was. Marco used coins from his allowance to buy a small jar of strawberry jam. His dad paid for vegetables with paper bills and received change. Before leaving, they thanked each seller and waved to a neighbor who sells handmade soap. Walking home, Marco noticed how much lighter the bag felt after they shared the warm loaf of bread. He decided the market was better than a grocery store because he could meet the people who grew the food.

Learning to Ride a Bike

Ava wanted to ride her bike without training wheels before summer camp. Her older brother Luis adjusted her helmet and lowered the seat so her feet could touch the ground. On the quiet cul-de-sac, Luis held the back of the seat while Ava pedaled slowly. At first she wobbled and laughed when she grabbed the brakes too hard. Luis reminded her to look forward, not at the front wheel. After many tries, Luis let go for three seconds, and Ava stayed upright. She shouted, "I'm doing it!" and rode to the end of the street. When she turned around, she used hand signals Luis had taught her. Ava fell once on the grass and scraped her knee, but she got back on because practice makes progress. That evening she drew a picture of herself riding and labeled it "brave day."