In SCIENCE, students will:

4-1 Investigate the nature of things, demonstrating purposeful action that leads to inferences supported by observations.

4-2 Identify patterns and order in objects and events studied; and record observations, using pictures, words and charts, with guidance in the construction of charts; and make predictions and generalizations, based on observations.

4-3 Investigate a practical problem, and develop a possible solution.

4-4 Demonstrate positive attitudes for the study of science and for the application of science in responsible ways

4-5 Recognize that human activity can lead to the production of wastes, and identify alternatives for the responsible use and disposal of materials.

Science 4 Units (Mme Favry)

Waste and Our World

Wheels and lever

Building Devices and Vehicles that Move

Light and Shadows

Plant Growth and Changes

Science 4

September/October Curriculum

Les déchets et notre environnement / Waste and Our World

Students learn about wastes produced through natural processes and human technology. In studying natural systems, students learn that all plants, animals and other living things are made up of materials that are recycled through the environment again and again. In studying human consumption and wastes, students identify wastes produced within their community and learn the methods used for disposal. They learn that some waste materials are biodegradable, that some are reusable, and that others are toxic. They learn that personal action in reducing, reusing and recycling materials can help decrease the waste we accumulate.

Students will:

  1. Identify plant and animal wastes, and describe how they are recycled in nature. For example, plant leaves serve as a source of food for soil insects, worms and other creatures. The wastes of these animals may then be further broken down by molds, fungi and bacteria.

  2. Identify and classify wastes that result from human activity.

  3. Describe alternative methods of disposal, and identify possible advantages and disadvantages of each.

  4. Distinguish between wastes that are readily biodegradable and those that are not.

  5. Compare different kinds of packaging, and infer the relative advantages and disadvantages of that packaging. In evaluating different forms of packaging, students should demonstrate the ability to consider a consumer perspective as well as an environmental perspective.

  6. Identify methods of waste disposal currently used within the local community.

  7. Identify kinds of wastes that may be toxic to people and to the environment.

  8. Identify alternative materials and processes that may decrease the amount of waste produced; e.g., reducing wastage of food, using both sides of a sheet of paper.

  9. Identify ways in which materials can be reused or recycled, including examples of things that the student has done.

  10. Develop a flow chart for a consumer product that indicates the source materials, final product, its use and method of disposal.

  11. Identify actions that individuals and groups can take to minimize the production of wastes, to recycle or reuse wastes and to ensure the safe handling and disposal of wastes.

  12. Develop and implement a plan to reduce waste, and monitor what happens over a period of time.