noun
life environment studies; socio-environmental studies
A subject in Japanese elementary schools (grades 1 and 2) that integrates science and social studies through hands-on activities about nature, community, and daily life.
小学校1年生と2年生は生活科の授業でアサガオを育てます。
First and second graders grow morning glories in life environment studies class.
生活科では、地域の探検
In life environment studies, they also do neighborhood explorations and try traditional games.
社会科 is social studies for grades 3 and up; 生活科 combines elements of science and social studies for younger children.
Compound of 生活 (seikatsu, 'life') and 科 (ka, 'subject'). The subject was introduced in the 1992 curriculum reform.