4th grade Instructional Guide

McGraw Hill Unit 4: Information Processing & Living Things

GRADE4 SCIENCE

Module 1: Structures and Functions of Living Things Lesson 1: Structures and Functions of Plants Lesson 2: Structures and Functions of Animals

Module 2: Information Processing and Transfer

Lesson 1: Information Processing in Animals Lesson 2: The Role of Animal’s Eyes Lesson 3: Information Transfer

function of organs and organ systems and the relationship between color and wavelength will be taught in Grades 6 through 8. (PS4.B) 4.3.3 Design a solution to an information transfer problem using wave patterns. Define the problem, identify criteria and constraints, develop possible solutions using models, analyze data from testing solutions, and propose modifications for optimizing a solution. Examples could include using light to transmit a message in Morse code or using lenses and mirrors to see objects that are far away. (PS4.C, ETS1.A, ETS1.B, ETS1.C) CONCEPTS SKILLS ● Structures of plants and animals ● Functions of plants and animals for living ● Animals receive and respond to information from environment ● Light waves allow objects to be seen. ● Wave patterns ● Information Transfer ● Construct explanation using evidence ● Compare/contrast ● Develop and use a model ● Describe different types of information ● Draw a diagram ● Record observations ● Design a solution LEARNING PROGRESSIONS 1. Living things have common characteristics. 2. List and describe common plant structures that are necessary for survival. 3. Plants have similar structures, even though they can be different. 4. Compare and contrast external animal structures. 5. Structural and behavioral adaptations help animals survive. 6. Make observations about animals. 7. Investigate how our senses work. 8. Explain how senses help animals survive in their environment. 9. Compare and contrast animal and human senses. 10.Explain the difference between reflection and refraction. 11.Understand that the surface of an object affects how much light bounces back. 12.Some animals’ eyes refract light to help them see. 13.Understand that light and sound waves can be used for information transfer. 14.Describe how patterns were utilized to transfer information. 15.Understand how technology has changed over time to transfer information more efficiently. 16.Codes can be developed to transfer secret information.