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...
Advanced Topics

The Water Cycle

Water's Never-Ending Journey

Water on Earth is always moving in a cycle called the water cycle. This process keeps our lakes, rivers, and oceans full and helps all living things survive.

The Stages

  • Evaporation: The Sun heats up water, turning it into vapor that rises into the air.
  • Condensation: Water vapor cools and changes back into tiny droplets, forming clouds.
  • Precipitation: When clouds get heavy, the water falls back to Earth as rain, snow, or hail.
  • Collection: Water gathers in rivers, lakes, and oceans, and the cycle starts again!

Why Is the Water Cycle Important?

The water cycle cleans and recycles water, making sure plants, animals, and people have what they need.

Observing the Cycle

You can see the water cycle in action on a rainy day, or when dew forms on grass in the morning.

Examples

  • Rain falls, soaks into the ground, and eventually returns to a river or the sea.

  • A puddle dries up in the sun as water evaporates.

In a Nutshell

The water cycle moves and cleans water on Earth, helping all living things survive.

Key Terms

Evaporation
When water changes from a liquid to a gas.
Condensation
When water vapor cools and changes back into liquid drops.
Precipitation
When water falls from clouds as rain, snow, or hail.
Next
Weather and Climate