Grade 4 science: observe everyday changes
Science starts with careful observation. Look at plants, changing water and common materials, then explain what you notice using simple ideas.
Look at the different jobs in a plant
Roots take in water from the soil and help hold a plant in place. Stems support the plant and carry water to other parts. Leaves help plants make food using light.
Observe a familiar plant with a grown-up. Draw the visible parts and label them without pulling up the plant. Ask which parts would be harder to see underground.
Notice water and materials
Evaporation is the change from liquid water to water vapour. A wet cloth can dry as water evaporates into the air. Water does not have to boil to evaporate.
Try a safe observation: place similar damp cloths in a sheltered airy spot and a still-air spot. Check them later with a grown-up. Keep the cloth size and amount of water similar so the comparison is fair. Do not use heaters or flames.
Try the questions
No timer, account or saved answers. Choose an option to see an explanation.
Printable practice
Write your answer and explain your thinking. Answers appear on a separate printed page.
- Which part takes in water from the soil?
Roots · Flowers · Fruit
- A damp cloth dries mainly because its water…
freezes · evaporates · turns into soil
- Which material is usually transparent?
Clear glass · Cardboard · Wood
Answer key and explanations
- Roots — Roots absorb water from the soil.
- evaporates — Liquid water changes into water vapour and enters the air.
- Clear glass — Transparent materials allow light through so objects can be seen clearly.