Make it rain!

Science Year 4
This unit is part of Year 4 Science States of Matter Scientists

Objectives

Children will make it rain in the classroom, as well as take part in a number of other tasks as they learn about the Water Cycle.

Science Objectives
i) Observe that some materials change state when they are heated or cooled, and measure or research the temperature at which this happens in degrees Celsius (°C).

ii) Identify the part played by evaporation and condensation in the water cycle and associate the rate of evaporation with temperature.

Working Scientifically

  1. Ask relevant questions and use different types of scientific enquiries to answer them.
  2. Set up simple practical enquiries and comparative and fair tests.
  3. Make systematic and careful observations and, where appropriate, take accurate measurements using standard units, using a range of equipment, including thermometers and data loggers.
  4. Use straightforward scientific evidence to answer questions or to support findings.

Extended Writing Opportunities
Chronological report: Create a leaflet explaining the water cycle to others, using scientific language, for the local water authority’s education pack.

Lesson Planning

Teaching

  • Know that water moves in a cycle due to changes in temperature causing the water to change from one state to another.

Activities

  1. Continue to develop understanding of the different stages of the water cycle.
  2. Explain the water cycle and changes to water during the evaporation and condensation process.
  3. Demonstrate to another, evidence of condensation and evaporation with a simple practical task.

Investigation - exploring
Understand and explain the water cycle using scientific language.

Vocabulary
Evaporation, condensation, precipitation, transpiration, cycle, particle, temperature, change, evidence