Skip to main content

Rio Tinto Hands On Science Curriculum Grade 4

Rio Tinto Hands On Science Curriculum Grade 4

Intended Learning Outcomes for Fourth Grade Science

SOIL PERMEABILITY

Description:

It's off to the water races! Students conduct an experiment using soil permeability tubes. Students assemble their experiment into a mock science fair project.

Soil Permeability Unit

A cartoon illustration promoting a science fair, featuring lab equipment.

COMPARING DENSITY

Description:

Students explore density by comparing objects that have the same volume but different mass.

Comparing Density Unit

Two cubes with red spheres inside, illustrating different densities.

STANDARD I: Students will understand that water changes state as it moves through the water cycle.

WATER CYCLE

Description:

Students observe evaporation, condensation, and precipitation in the lab.

Water Cycle Unit

A diagram illustrates the water cycle with labels for evaporation, condensation, and precipitation.

STANDARD II: Students will understand that the elements of weather can be observed, measured, and recorded to make predictions and determine simple weather patterns.

AIR AND AIR PRESSURE

Description:

Air has mass and pressure that students will explore through 7 different experiments.

Air and Air Pressure Unit

Diagram showing particles in a cube, with arrows indicating movement.

STANDARD III: Students will understand the basic properties of rocks, the processes involved in the formation of soils, and the needs of plants provided by soil.

MINERALS AND ROCKS

Description:

Students will solve a mineral mystery and correctly classify 9 minerals. Twelve common rocks found in Utah will also be identified and explored.

Minerals and Rocks Unit

A variety of colorful gemstones fill a dark, round container.

SAND, CLAY AND HUMUS

Description:

It's time to get dirty! Students study what is found in soil, its layers, and primary components.

Sand, Clay and Humus Unit

A cross-section of soil layers is visible, showing different textures and colors.

SOIL PERMEABILITY

Description:

It's off to the water races! Students conduct an experiment using soil permeability tubes. Students assemble their experiment into a mock science fair project.

Soil Permeability Unit

Cartoon image promoting a science fair, featuring a microscope and lab equipment.

STANDARD IV: Students will understand how fossils are formed, where they may be found in Utah, and how they can be used to make inferences.

FOSSILS

Description:

Student paleontologists observe specimens from the Natural History Museum and the Utah Geological Survey and decide whether or not they are fossils.

Fossils Unit

A dinosaur skeleton is displayed against a plain background.

STANDARD V: Students will understand the physical characteristics of Utah's wetlands, forests, and deserts and identify common organisms for each environment.

CLASSIFICATION - DICHOTOMOUS KEYS

Description:

Classification of Utah amphibians, seeds, and leaves is explored through dichotomous keys.

Classification - Dichotomous Keys Unit

A flowchart categorizes organisms based on characteristics like legs and antennae.

UTAH BIOMES AND PLANTS

Description:

Students will explore Utah plants and the four biomes found in Utah by using Utah plant specimens from the Natural History Museum of Utah.

Utah Biomes and Plants Unit