In 2nd grade at SJDS, we are involved in a lot of hands on science activities and experiments. As part of our animal science unit on life cycles, the students were able to observe and record the metamorphoses of the caterpillar and tadpole. The students observed and logged the changes that they saw each day. On the day the butterflies emerged, we celebrated by releasing them and enjoying butterfly shaped cakes. We were also excited to see that our praying mantis's hatched from their egg on the same day! The students learn so many things by experiencing science first hand!

The 2nd grade students are studying plant life for their science unit this month. Among the many hands-on activities we did, the students planted their own flower seeds. The students journaled their observations once a week and compared their results with each other. They discussed why some seeds sprouted sooner than others. The students also planted and observed the growth process from several types of vegetables using various experiments. The kids had a great time learning about plant life and the process of how things need to be nurtured and cared for in order to thrive.

As  part of our Grandparents’ Day celebration, the 2nd graders had a rocker donated for our auction item. The students added their own personal touch by painting flowers, butterflies, and ladybugs on the chair. The students enjoyed taking on this project and were proud to show it off on Grandparents’ Day. The 2nd graders also made handmade gifts to give to their grandparents. During the program they recited a poem about grandparents that they learned in Spanish. Grandparents’ Day is very special at St. James!

The second graders at St. James have been doing a weather unit all month in Science. Along with taking daily weather reports, the students have made predictions and have tallied their observances each today. They students have also learned about the water cycle and how it affects our weather and our environment. We ended our weather unit with a fun science experiment about how clouds hold water. Our class had a great time collaborating and discussing the outcome of their experiments.

The students of St. James Day School have the honor of performing at the Candlelight service at the St. James church every year during Christmas. The students have worked hard with the music teacher for about 6 weeks prior to the performance. They loved dressing up in their dresses and suits! They sang several songs during the service, and a few  of the second graders had the honor of reading from the scriptures. The families and staff at St. James Day School look forward to this event every year, as it helps our students remember the true meaning of the season.