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Basic Science Note Primary Four
Basic Science Note Primary Four
- Temporary changes are changes that can be reversed, meaning the substance or material can return to
its original state.
- Examples of temporary changes include melting ice, boiling water, freezing water, crumpling paper, or
bending a piece of wire.
- Temporary changes are often caused by changes in temperature, pressure, or physical manipulation of
the substance or material.
- These changes do not result in the formation of a new substance and do not involve chemical
reactions.
- Students learn that temporary changes are often reversible by restoring the original conditions or
reversing the physical manipulation.
Permanent Changes:
- Permanent changes are changes that cannot be easily reversed, meaning the substance or material
undergoes a permanent transformation.
- Examples of permanent changes include burning wood, cooking food, rusting of iron, or irreversible
chemical reactions.
- Permanent changes often involve chemical reactions, where new substances are formed with different
properties.
- Students learn that permanent changes usually require the input of energy or the use of catalysts to
initiate the chemical reactions.
- Permanent changes are typically irreversible, meaning the original substance or material cannot be
restored to its previous state.
CHANGES IN PLANT
- Leaf fall is a natural process that occurs in many plants, especially during certain seasons like autumn
or in response to environmental factors.
- As days become shorter and temperatures drop, some plants shed their leaves as a way to conserve
energy and prepare for winter.
- Before leaf fall, plants reabsorb valuable nutrients from the leaves and create a protective layer at the
base of the leaf stem, resulting in the leaf eventually detaching and falling off.
2. Color of Leaves:
- The color of leaves can change throughout the year and can vary depending on the species of the
plant.
- In autumn, as chlorophyll production decreases, other pigments like carotenoids (yellow, orange) and
anthocyanins (red, purple) become more visible, resulting in the vibrant colors associated with fall
foliage.
- In some plants, leaves may also change color due to stress factors like nutrient deficiencies, diseases,
or environmental stresses like drought.
3. Flower Changes:
- Flowers typically start as buds, which gradually open up to reveal the petals and reproductive parts.
- The color of flowers can change as they mature or as a response to pollination. Some flowers change
color to attract pollinators, while others may change color as they age or wilt.
4. Fruit Changes:
- Fruits often change color to signal their readiness for consumption or to attract animals for seed
dispersal.
- The ripening process involves changes in the levels of hormones, enzymes, and sugars within the fruit.
WEEDS
1. Definition of Weeds:
- Weeds are plants that grow in places where they are not wanted or intentionally planted.
- They can be found in gardens, lawns, fields, and even cracks in sidewalks.
- Weeds often grow quickly and can spread rapidly, outcompeting other plants.
2. Characteristics of Weeds:
- Weeds have adaptive features that help them survive and spread, such as fast growth, prolific seed
production, and the ability to tolerate a wide range of conditions.
- They are often hardy and can thrive in poor soil, drought conditions, or areas with limited sunlight.
- Weeds can reproduce through seeds, underground rhizomes, or by producing new plants from stem
fragments.
- Common examples of weeds include dandelions, crabgrass, chickweed, purslane, and bindweed.
- Dandelions have yellow flowers and produce wind-dispersed seeds with fluffy white structures.
- Crabgrass is a grassy weed that spreads quickly and can be challenging to control.
- Chickweed is a low-growing weed with small white flowers that can quickly form dense mats.
- Bindweed is a vine-like weed that wraps around other plants and can be challenging to eradicate.
CHANGES IN ANIMAL
Changes in animals can be observed in various aspects, including their life cycles. Here are some notes
on changes in animals, specifically focusing on the life cycles of insects like cockroaches and butterflies:
- Cockroaches undergo incomplete metamorphosis, which means they go through three stages: egg,
nymph, and adult.
- The eggs hatch into nymphs, which resemble miniature versions of the adult cockroach but lack wings.
- Nymphs molt several times, shedding their exoskeleton and growing larger with each molt.
- After multiple molts, the nymphs reach adulthood and develop wings to become sexually mature adult
cockroaches.
- Butterflies undergo complete metamorphosis, which consists of four distinct stages: egg, larva
(caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult.
- Female butterflies lay eggs on specific host plants that will serve as food for the emerging caterpillars.
- The eggs hatch into caterpillars, which actively feed and grow.
- The caterpillar molts several times, shedding its skin and growing larger each time.
- When the caterpillar reaches its final molt, it forms a pupa or chrysalis, within which the
transformation into an adult butterfly occurs.
- Inside the pupa, the caterpillar undergoes a process of metamorphosis, during which its body
undergoes significant changes.
- After a period of time, the adult butterfly emerges from the pupa with fully developed wings and
reproductive organs, ready to mate and continue the life cycle.
GROWTH IN ANIMAL
Growth in animals involves various changes from young ones to adults. Here are some notes on the
growth and development process in animals:
1. Birth or Hatching:
- Many animals start their life cycle as offspring born from their parents or hatched from eggs.
- The young ones are usually smaller, less developed, and more vulnerable compared to the adults.
- They gradually increase in size and undergo physical changes as their bodies mature.
- This growth process involves the development of organs, tissues, and skeletal structures.
3. Feeding and Nutrition:
- During the growth phase, young animals require proper nutrition to support their development.
- They may rely on their parents for milk, regurgitated food, or specific food sources suitable for their
species.
- Adequate nutrition is crucial for their overall growth, including the development of muscles and bones.
- Sexual maturity marks the point at which animals are capable of reproducing and passing on their
genes to the next generation.
- The timing of sexual maturity varies among different species and can be influenced by factors such as
nutrition, environment, and genetics.
- As animals grow and mature, there are often noticeable changes in their physical appearance.
- They may develop distinct coloration, patterns, or features that differentiate them from young
individuals.
- Additionally, their behavior may change as they acquire skills, instincts, and social behaviors necessary
for their survival and reproduction.
Changes in non-living things can be observed in various processes such as melting, rusting, molding, and
burning. Here are some notes on these changes for primary four:
1. Melting:
- Melting is a process where a solid substance changes into a liquid state when heated.
- When heat is applied to a solid, its particles gain energy and start vibrating faster, causing the solid to
break down into a liquid.
- Common examples of melting include ice melting into water when heated, or solid chocolate melting
when exposed to heat.
2. Rusting:
- Rusting is a chemical process that occurs when iron or steel comes into contact with oxygen and
moisture over time.
- The iron or steel reacts with oxygen in the presence of water to form iron oxide, commonly known as
rust.
- Rusting can cause the affected metal to weaken, change color, and eventually deteriorate if not
prevented or treated.
3. Molding:
- Molding refers to the process of shaping or forming a material into a specific shape or object.
- Materials like clay, plastic, or molten metal can be molded into various forms using molds, tools, or
machines.
- Molding can involve techniques such as pouring, pressing, or shaping the material to achieve the
desired shape or structure.
4. Burning:
- Burning is a chemical process that occurs when a substance reacts with oxygen in the presence of heat,
resulting in combustion.
- Common examples of burning include wood burning in a fire, candles burning, or paper burning when
exposed to flames.
WEATHER
Weather refers to the conditions of the atmosphere at a particular time and place. It includes elements
such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. Here are some
notes on weather, factors affecting weather, and weather instruments for primary four:
1. Weather:
- Humidity: The amount of moisture or water vapor in the air affects how hot or cold it feels.
- Air pressure: Differences in air pressure create wind and affect weather patterns.
- Wind: The movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure affects weather
conditions.
- Precipitation: Rain, snow, sleet, or hail can occur depending on temperature and moisture levels.
- Sunlight: The amount of sunlight received affects temperature and weather patterns.
3. Weather Instruments:
- Various instruments are used to measure and observe weather conditions. Some common weather
instruments include:
- Weather Vane: Shows the direction from which the wind is blowing.
- Weather Balloon: Carries instruments to measure temperature, humidity, and air pressure at different
altitudes.
- Weather Satellites: Orbiting satellites provide images and data about cloud cover, storms, and other
weather patterns.
WEATHER CONTINUED
1. Weather Symbols:
- Weather symbols are graphical representations used to depict different weather conditions on
weather maps, charts, and forecasts.
- Common weather symbols include the sun for clear skies, clouds for cloudy conditions, raindrops for
rain, snowflakes for snow, and lightning bolts for thunderstorms.
- Keeping weather records involves observing and recording weather conditions over a period of time.
- Important elements to record include temperature, precipitation (rainfall or snowfall), wind speed and
direction, cloud cover, and any significant weather events.
- Regularly recording weather data helps identify patterns and trends, and it can be a fun way to learn
about the weather.
3. Weather Forecasting:
- Weather forecasting involves predicting future weather conditions based on current observations and
historical data.
- Meteorologists use weather instruments, satellite imagery, computer models, and historical weather
patterns to make forecasts.
- Weather forecasts provide information about temperature, precipitation, wind, and other weather
conditions for specific locations and timeframes.
- Understanding weather forecasts helps people plan their activities, make informed decisions, and stay
safe during extreme weather events
WEATHER CONTINUED
Weather refers to the day-to-day conditions of the atmosphere in a particular place. It includes
elements such as temperature, humidity, wind, precipitation, cloud cover, and atmospheric pressure.
Here are some notes on weather, its meaning, and factors that influence it for primary four:
1. Meaning of Weather:
- Weather describes the state of the atmosphere at a specific time and place.
- It includes various elements like temperature, humidity, wind, and precipitation that can change
throughout the day.
- Weather conditions can be observed and experienced, and they can have a significant impact on our
daily lives and activities.
2. Weather Factors:
- Sunshine: The amount of sunlight received affects temperature and can lead to warmer or cooler
weather.
- Temperature: It measures how hot or cold the air is and is influenced by factors like sunlight, cloud
cover, and air masses.
- Humidity: It refers to the amount of moisture or water vapor present in the air.
- Wind: The movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure creates winds that
can be gentle or strong.
- Precipitation: Rain, snow, sleet, or hail are forms of precipitation that occur when moisture in the air
condenses and falls to the ground.
- Cloud Cover: Clouds are formed by the condensation of water vapor in the air and can affect
temperature and precipitation.
- Atmospheric Pressure: It is the force exerted by the weight of the air above a given point and
influences weather patterns.
WEATHER CONTINUED
Weather instruments are tools used to measure and observe various weather conditions. Here are some
notes on common weather instruments, their uses, and the importance of keeping weather records for
primary four:
1. Wind Vane:
- A wind vane, also known as a weather vane, is used to measure wind direction.
- It has an arrow-shaped pointer that rotates with the wind and points in the direction from which the
wind is blowing.
- Wind vanes help us understand wind patterns and how they change over time.
2. Rain Gauge:
- Rain gauges help us track rainfall patterns, which are important for agriculture, water management,
and understanding local climate.
3. Thermometer:
- It typically consists of a glass tube filled with a liquid, such as mercury or alcohol, that expands or
contracts with temperature changes.
- Thermometers help us monitor and record temperature variations, which are important for predicting
weather patterns and understanding climate.
4. Barometer:
- A barometer measures atmospheric pressure, which is the force exerted by the weight of the air.
- It helps us understand changes in air pressure, which can indicate approaching weather systems and
help predict weather conditions.
- A common type of barometer is a mercury barometer, which measures pressure by the height of a
column of mercury in a glass tube.
- Weather instruments are used to collect data and observations that help meteorologists and scientists
study and understand weather patterns.
- The information gathered from these instruments is used to make weather forecasts, monitor climate
changes, and study long-term weather trends.
- Weather instruments also help in making decisions related to agriculture, transportation, and disaster
preparedness.
Weather Records:
- Keeping weather records involves observing and recording weather conditions over time.
- Weather records help scientists analyze long-term weather patterns and climate changes.
- Weather records also help individuals and communities make informed decisions, such as planning
outdoor activities or preparing for severe weather events.
- By regularly recording weather data, we can identify trends, compare weather conditions over
different periods, and deepen our understanding of the local climate.
COLOURS
1. Colors:
- Colors are the different visual perceptions produced by the human eye in response to different
wavelengths of light.
- They play an important role in our daily lives, influencing our emotions, communication, and
aesthetics.
2. Primary Colors:
- Primary colors are the three colors from which all other colors can be created. They are red, blue, and
yellow.
3. Secondary Colors:
- The colors of the rainbow are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
- They are produced when white light from the sun is refracted (bent) by water droplets in the air,
creating a spectrum of colors.
- By combining different primary and secondary colors, we can create a wide variety of new colors.
- For example, mixing red and yellow creates orange, and mixing blue and green creates turquoise.
- Additionally, colors can be altered by changing their brightness or saturation. Brightness refers to how
light or dark a color appears, while saturation refers to the intensity or purity of a color.
Exploring colors in nature, art, and everyday objects can be a fun and creative way for primary four
students to learn about colors and their various combinations.
CYCLE OF AN INSECT
The life cycle of an insect can vary depending on the species. There are two main types of insect life
cycles: complete metamorphosis and incomplete metamorphosis. Here are some notes on these life
cycles for primary four:
1. Complete Metamorphosis:
- The life cycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.
- Egg Stage: The life cycle begins with an egg laid by an adult insect.
- Larva Stage: The egg hatches into a larva, also known as a caterpillar or grub. The larva looks different
from the adult and goes through several growth stages.
- Pupa Stage: The larva transforms into a pupa, which is a resting stage. Inside the pupa, the insect
undergoes significant changes and transforms into its adult form.
- Adult Stage: The adult insect emerges from the pupa with fully developed wings and reproductive
organs. It is now capable of reproducing and starting the cycle again.
2. Incomplete Metamorphosis:
- The life cycle consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult.
- Egg Stage: The life cycle begins with an egg laid by an adult insect.
- Nymph Stage: The egg hatches into a nymph, which resembles a miniature version of the adult but
without wings. The nymph goes through several molts, shedding its exoskeleton and growing larger each
time.
- Adult Stage: The nymph eventually reaches adulthood, growing wings and reproductive organs. The
adult is now capable of reproducing and starting the cycle again.
1. Meaning of Safety:
- Safety refers to the condition of being protected from harm, danger, or injury.
- It involves taking preventive measures and following rules and guidelines to minimize risks and
promote well-being.
2. Right to Life:
- The right to life is a fundamental human right that ensures every individual has the right to live and be
protected from harm or violence.
- It means that everyone should be able to go about their daily lives without the fear of injury or death.
- This right emphasizes that everyone has the right to travel on roads safely, without the risk of getting
injured or losing their life.
- It highlights the importance of following traffic rules, being vigilant, and respecting the rights of other
road users.
- Some items require special care and attention to ensure safety. These include:
- Sharp objects like knives or scissors: They should be handled with caution, keeping them away from
children and using them responsibly.
- Chemicals or cleaning products: These should be stored securely and used according to instructions,
avoiding contact with eyes or skin.
- Electrical appliances or cords: They should be used responsibly, kept away from water, and
unplugged when not in use.
- At Home:
- Use safety gates, outlet covers, and cabinet locks to protect young children.
- At School:
- On the Road:
- Safety in our environment involves taking precautions to prevent accidents, injuries, and hazards in the
places we live, learn, and travel.
- It includes being aware of potential dangers, following safety guidelines, and utilizing safety devices.
- At School:
- Fire extinguishers: Used to control small fires and prevent them from spreading.
- First aid kits: Contain basic medical supplies for treating minor injuries.
- At Home:
- Smoke detectors: Sound an alarm when they sense smoke, alerting residents to a potential fire.
- Carbon monoxide detectors: Detect the presence of this odorless, deadly gas.
- Safety gates: Used to block off staircases and prevent young children from falling.
- On the Road:
- Road safety is essential for protecting lives and preventing injuries. Here are some advantages:
- Reduces accidents: Following road safety rules and practicing defensive driving can help minimize the
risk of accidents.
- Saves lives: By obeying traffic laws, using seat belts, and avoiding dangerous behaviors, we can
prevent fatalities on the road.
- Promotes efficiency: Road safety measures such as traffic lights, signs, and lane markings help
maintain smooth traffic flow and reduce congestion.
- Enhances public health: Road safety reduces the number of injuries and disabilities caused by
accidents, leading to a healthier population.
- Supports economic growth: A safe road network encourages tourism, trade, and transportation,
contributing to economic development.
Understanding and practicing safety in various environments, along with utilizing safety devices, can
help create a secure and protected environment for everyone.
REVISION
EXAMINATION