What's this about matter?? The 4th graders are learning all about matter. Some of the central questions that we will talk about are: How do we describe the things around us?
What is the world around us made of?
How does matter change?
To answer these questions we will:
Classify common objects and substances according to observable attributes.
Measure weight, dimensions, and temperature of appropriate objects and materials.
Identify properties of materials that make them useful.
Identify forms of energy associated with common phenomena.
Describe common physical changes in mater, melting, freezing, dissolving, and the heat energy that accompanies them.
Students will learn to be thinkers and problem solvers in Science using exciting hands-on materials. They will often work cooperatively in teams to complete interesting experiments using the Scientific Method. Fourth graders will study Life, Earth, and Physical Science. In addition, we will use and review a variety of skills (especially measurement) and concepts in preparation for the New York State Science Test which will be given to 4th graders in May.
4th Grade Science Objective: The student will use critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions.
· Analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including hypotheses and theories, using scientific evidence and information. (Scientific Method/Inquiry) · Analyze and interpret information to construct reasonable explanations from direct and indirect evidence · Draw inferences based on information · Represent the natural world using models and identify their limitations · Evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment (Communicate) · Connect Grade 4 science concepts with the history of science and contributions of scientists · Demonstrate safe practices during field and laboratory investigations · Understands Vocabulary and Concepts Topics that we will cover in Science 4: 1. Life Science: · Animal Studies Characteristics Vertebrates Invertebrates Organ systems in animals Animal habitats Animal behavior Animals/plants: Dwarf Frogs, Elodea (a plant that grows submerged in ponds and ditches), fiddler crabs, millipedes, and moss.
2. Earth Science: Land Rocks Fossils Soil Inside the Earth Water Water Cycle Ground Water The Oceans Conservation Weather and Climate
3. Physical Science Properties of Matter What is matter? Measuring Matter Changes in matter (physical and chemical) Forms of Energy Heat Light Sound Electricity and Magnetism Static Electricity Current Electricity Electricity and Magnets Motion, Work, and Machines Speed/Acceleration Distance Levers Inclined Planes