4^th Grade Matter Unit Blueprint

Introduction to 12D(6-8)#1: Organize information in simple tables and graphs and identify relationships they reveal. (See essay on page 76 in Benchmarks about the importance of student-generated tables and graphs at this grade level.)

Students construct data tables from a model in student text and enter lab data

Click to view samples of student work.

• Are students able to create a table from a model?
• Do students enter data in an organized method?
• Are their tables legible?

12C(3-5)#2: Measure and mix dry and liquid materials in prescribed amounts, exercising reasonable safety [and demonstrating correct lab techniques].

Teacher observation of students measuring 20 mL of water in Investigating with Water lab

In Checking Understanding activity, student teams measure liquid (See page 55 in Teacher's Edition.)

• Do students accurately measure the prescribed amount of the substance?
• Do students demonstrate correct lab technique?

In general, how does mixing two or more materials affect their properties? Why is this important?

4D(3-5)#4: When a new material is made by combining two or more materials, it has properties that are different from the original materials. For that reason, a lot of different materials can be made from a small number of basic kinds of materials.

Class discussion of Investigating with Water lab results (See page 54, Making Meaning section in Teacher's Edition.)

Checking Understanding #6 (See page 55 in Teacher's Edition.)

Do students recognize that the mixed substance has new properties that are different from the original parts?