4th Grade Science - Physical Science

Properties of Matter

• Identify objects using observable properties (i.e., mass, length, and volume), and measure those properties with the proper equipment
• Identify properties of density and boiling and freezing points
• Recognize materials exist in different states (i.e., solid, liquid, and gas)
• Introduce the atom as the basic unit of matter
• Distinguish that heat changes state through evaporation and condensation

Light, Heat, Electricity

• Identify the basic properties of light such as reflection, refraction, and absorption
• Observe ways heat can be transferred through conduction, radiation and convection
• Identify ways energy influences our lives
• Explore ways energy is never lost, but how it changes form

Motion, Forces, Magnetism

• Identify simple machines and their uses
• Recognize the position of an object
• Observe friction and its effects
• Be introduced to gravity as a force
• Distinguish the differences between mass and weight
• Practice applying the criteria of the greater the object, the greater the force needed to move the object