Fourth Grade Science-Core Curriculum Class for Second Semester

Fourth grade science topics taught in this second semester class include:
1.  From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes
3. Earth's Systems
4. Earth and Human Activity
5. Engineering and Design (standards integrated throughout the entire semester)

The Next Generation Science Standards (nextgenscience.org) will be used to guide course instruction and ensure learners have the needed skills for 5th grade.

In keeping with the Next Generation Science standards, science and engineering practices along with crosscutting concepts will be incorporated as learners participate in class. For example, when learners study Earth and Human Activity they will create a model of a building which could withstand the impact of an earthquake (engineering). They will research cause and effect relationships are routinely identified, tested and used to explain change (crosscutting concept).

Specific weekly objectives for this course:

1. Engage in a discussion regarding an overview of human body systems.
2. Develop a model of the brain. 
3. I can create a model of the skeletal system.
4. I can identify the role of the lungs in the circulatory system.
5. Demonstrate understanding of digestion.
6. Identify rock formations (canyons, mountains, cliffs).
7. Describe evidence from patterns in rock formations which show how the earth has changed over time.
8. I can create a model to show an understanding of plate tectonics.
9. Create a model or diagram to show the effects of weathering or erosion on the surface of the Earth. Time provided to work on projects.
10. Complete projects and begin presentations.
11. Identify resources that are renewable over time and those that are not.
12. Review and celebrate a great class. 

The class will be structured as teacher facilitated and interactive. Learners will be engaged in games, discussions, videos and hands-on projects. My teaching style is relaxed and inclusive. I encourage learner participation and questions. The classroom is 'ours' not 'mine'. Learners will have many opportunities to interact with me and their classmates each week.