Our Grade 2s visited the Two Oceans Aquarium on Friday, 14 August 2026. The pupils first experienced an extremely insightful and interesting lesson as offered by Two Oceans Aquarium staffmember, Kurt. The pupils were able to examine sea stars, sea anemones and sea urchins up close before exploring the aquarium displays. They were fascinated by the sharks, jellyfish, penguins and many other marine creatures. This experience allowed our pupils to develop a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of life on Earth and to understand that we all have a role to play in caring for and protecting our planet.
This outing was an example of how our learning is brought to life through practical activities, discussions, investigations and real-world experiences. During Terms 2 and 3, our Grade 2 pupils continued to explore the question, “Do I play a role in the Universe?” through an exciting and hands-on Project-Based Learning programme focused on animals, plants and our responsibility towards the natural world. We explored the different animal groups, including fish, learning about their characteristics, habitats, food chains and life cycles. We also discussed extinction and considered why it is important for us to help protect animals and prevent further species from becoming extinct.
Alongside our study of animals, we investigated plants and their importance in our lives. We learned what plants need to grow and remain healthy and discussed the many ways in which plants support life on Earth. The pupils also considered our role in protecting, caring for
and cultivating plants.
Some fun facts learnt:
- The animals within the two different oceans (Indian, and Atlantic) feature different animals due to their water temperatures.
- Kelp constituents are found in items such as toothpase, tomato sauce and the colouring of cheese.
- More than 50% of our oxygen comes from sea plants.
- There are three types of sea stars (Cushion, Red, and Spiny).
- Sea urchins and sea stars have tubefeet to assist them with feeling.
- The spines (spikes) and tubefeet will slowly fall off urchins when it is dying, and will leave behind a skeleton known as a seepampoen.
- Sea anemones have mouths in the middle with tentacles around. Fish are paralyzed with venom as they are pulled into the anemone’s mouth.
