4th Grade Science

Studying Earth systems, energy transfer, and the scientific method for fourth grade students.

Earth's Four SystemsEnergy Transfer in NatureThe Scientific Method
The Water CycleWeather and ClimateErosion and Earth's Changing Surface
Observing Nature's SystemsSimple Energy ExperimentsMaking a Mini Water Cycle
Using Diagrams and ModelsAsking Good Science QuestionsOrganizing Observations
Earth's Four SystemsEnergy Transfer in N...The Scientific Metho...The Water CycleWeather and ClimateErosion and Earth's ...Observing Nature's S...Simple Energy Experi...Making a Mini Water ...Using Diagrams and M...Asking Good Science ...Organizing Observati...
Basic Concepts

Energy Transfer in Nature

How Does Energy Move Around Us?

Energy is always on the move! It helps plants grow, keeps us warm, and powers all living things. In science, "energy transfer" means moving energy from one place or thing to another.

Types of Energy Transfer

  • Light Energy: The Sun gives energy to plants, which use it to make food.
  • Heat Energy: Heat can move from warm things to cooler things.
  • Movement Energy: Animals use energy to run, jump, or fly.

The Food Chain

Plants get energy from the Sun. Animals eat plants to get energy, and bigger animals eat smaller ones. This is called a food chain.

Real-Life Examples

  • When you touch a warm rock, heat moves from the rock to your hand.
  • When you eat lunch, your body gets energy from the food.

Why Does It Matter?

Knowing about energy transfer helps us save energy and understand how life survives on Earth.

Examples

  • A cat warms itself in a sunny spot—energy from the Sun heats the cat.

  • A bird eats a berry and uses the energy to fly.

In a Nutshell

Energy moves from the Sun to plants to animals, powering all life on Earth.

Key Terms

Energy
The ability to do work or cause change.
Food Chain
The path energy takes as it moves from one living thing to another.
Next
The Scientific Method