Describing Physical Properties Activities for 4th Grade Science

The Kesler Science 4th grade chemistry unit on classifying and describing matter helps students explore physical properties such as temperature, mass, magnetism, relative density, and physical state. The lesson includes editable PowerPoints, worksheets, student-choice projects, and assessments, all designed for differentiated, student-led learning. It follows the 5E model with activities that engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate. 

Students answer the key question: "In what ways are physical properties used for classification of matter?" The unit features nine differentiated exploration stations, including hands-on demos, reading passages in English and Spanish, interactive websites, and video discussions. Output stations provide opportunities for students to demonstrate their understanding through activities like card sorts, written responses, and illustrations.

Additional materials include interactive notebooks, teacher files, and extension activities for early finishers. The unit is aligned with the 2021 TEKS 4.6A standard and is suitable for both in-class and virtual learning. Assessment questions are updated for STAAR 2.0, with options for modified versions.

This student-led station lab covers the 2021 TEKS 4.6A standard on describing and classifying the physical properties of matter. Designed for 4th grade, it engages students with nine modular activities that foster independent learning. The stations allow students to explore physical properties of matter and classify them through a variety of tasks. Teachers facilitate learning while students take the lead, engaging in activities such as reading passages, watching videos, and using digital tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides.

The lab includes both input and output stations. Input stations like “Explore It!” and “Watch It!” allow students to interact with information through activities, videos, and readings. Output stations, such as “Organize It!” and “Illustrate It!” let students apply their learning by drawing, writing, or working hands-on with materials. “Assess It!” challenges students to demonstrate understanding with task cards, while the "Challenge It!” bonus station offers extension activities for advanced learners. 

This resource is versatile for both in-person and virtual learning environments, with activities requiring minimal prep and resources you likely already have.

The Describing Physical Properties Student Choice Projects align with the 2021 TEKS standard 4.6A for chemistry, allowing 4th graders to select a project based on their preferred output style. The project page presents six student-led options plus a “design your own” project, with a customizable grading rubric for teacher, peer, or self-assessment. Teachers can adjust the rubric to meet their grading needs.

The projects offer flexible, multimodal choices, allowing students to creatively demonstrate their understanding. The resource includes nine project options, a Teacher Directions page with helpful tips, and editable rubric pages to assess vocabulary, concepts, presentation, clarity, and accuracy. Differentiation is built in, with modified options for students who need additional support and advanced projects for those seeking a challenge. Many projects can be completed using standard classroom supplies or digitally.