Grade 4 – Science and Technology

Course Overview

The Grade 4 Science and Technology course marks an important progression in students’ scientific learning as they move toward deeper investigation, critical analysis, and applied problem solving. Building on prior scientific knowledge, learners explore how natural systems and technological innovations shape the world around them.

Students examine habitats and ecosystems, forms of energy such as light and sound, mechanical systems, and the properties of rocks and minerals. Through observation, experimentation, and design challenges, learners strengthen their ability to think scientifically while recognizing the relationship between human activity and the environment.

As curiosity expands into structured inquiry, students become more confident investigators who can ask meaningful questions, evaluate evidence, and communicate their discoveries with clarity.

Important Information

• No prerequisites are required for elementary courses
• Ontario elementary programs do not issue transcript credits
• Facilitated and independent learning pathways are available to support different learning needs

What Students Will Develop

Throughout the course, students engage in rich scientific experiences that promote analytical thinking, creativity, and responsible decision making.

Students will:

• Understand how living organisms depend on habitats and communities
• Examine food chains and ecological relationships
• Investigate the properties and uses of rocks and minerals
• Explore how light and sound function as forms of energy
• Analyze mechanical systems and how forces transfer motion
• Design and test devices that solve practical problems
• Strengthen scientific inquiry and research skills
• Interpret observations and communicate findings effectively
• Evaluate environmental impacts of human activity
• Apply coding concepts to support technological understanding

These competencies support the transition from guided discovery toward more independent scientific reasoning.

Course Structure

Learning is organized into engaging units that promote curiosity while building a strong conceptual foundation.

STEM Skills and Connections

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are integrated throughout the course. Students participate in investigations, apply engineering design processes, and communicate their findings while making meaningful connections between scientific knowledge and real world challenges. Learners also examine contributions from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities whose knowledge has influenced scientific and technological systems.

Habitats and Communities

Students explore the interdependence of plants and animals within ecosystems and examine how habitats provide essential resources for survival. Learners investigate food chains, classify organisms, and analyze the consequences of habitat loss. Through observation and design activities, students evaluate how human actions influence biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Light and Sound

Learners study light and sound as forms of energy with distinct properties. They investigate how vibrations produce sound and why light is necessary for vision. Students design devices that demonstrate these properties while considering how technological innovations involving light and sound impact society and the environment.

Machines and Their Mechanisms

Students examine how motion is transferred within mechanical systems and how machines modify force, speed, and direction. By identifying components of everyday machines, learners develop practical understanding before designing and testing pulley or gear systems. They also evaluate how machines influence daily life and environmental conditions.

Rocks, Minerals, and Geological Processes

Learners investigate the characteristics of rocks and minerals and discover how formation processes determine their properties. Students explore how societies use geological resources and assess the environmental implications of these uses. The study of fossils introduces learners to Earth’s history and the evidence preserved within it.

Coding

Students explore how technology generates outputs for specific purposes and learn to write and execute code that supports problem solving. Coding experiences reinforce logical thinking and encourage innovation.

Learning Resources

As a fully online course, Grade 4 Science and Technology does not rely on a traditional textbook. Students utilize a blend of digital tools and hands on materials that support experimentation and discovery.

Recommended resources include:

• A device capable of capturing written work
• Audio recording tools
• Access to a printer
• A binder, folder, or notebook for offline activities
• Measuring tools and basic construction materials
• Craft supplies for building prototypes
• Grid paper for design activities
• Household items that support scientific investigations

These resources help create an engaging environment where students actively explore scientific concepts.

Teaching and Learning Approach

The course combines inquiry driven learning with structured instruction so that students develop both curiosity and scientific discipline.

Key features of the learning experience include:

• Hands on investigations that encourage exploration
• Inquiry based lessons that promote critical thinking
• Integration of STEM concepts across units
• Opportunities to design, test, and refine solutions
• Technology enhanced learning experiences
• Guided instruction that supports conceptual clarity

Teachers and learning coaches provide essential support by facilitating experiments, encouraging reflection, and helping students communicate their understanding effectively.

Preparing Students for Advanced Scientific Learning

By the end of Grade 4, students demonstrate increased confidence in their ability to investigate complex questions, analyze evidence, and apply scientific knowledge responsibly. Their growing awareness of environmental stewardship and technological impact prepares them for the deeper scientific expectations of the junior grades.

At Trinity Ontario Elementary School, every learning experience reflects the vision of Trinity Ontario Global Academy by combining academic excellence with character development and global perspective. Students complete Grade 4 Science and Technology with the curiosity, analytical skills, and confidence needed for continued success in science.