Structure and Function: From Cells to Organisms
Understanding how structure relates to function in living things. All living organisms have structures that allow them to interact and survive in their environment. Understanding the function linked to such structures allows us to better care for living things and also adapt as humans.
Grade Four Expectations for Structure and Function
Essential Learning Outcome 1: Develop models to describe that organisms have unique and diverse life cycles but all have in common birth, growth, reproduction, and death
- Identify the major structures of plants (roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds)
- Explain how each plant structure contributes to survival and reproduction
- Compare different plant adaptations to various environments
- Investigate how plant structures respond to environmental stimuli
- Create models showing the relationship between structure and function in plants
Specific Curriculum Outcomes
By the end of Grade Four, the learner will be expected to:
Inclusive Assessment Strategies
Assessment strategies that provide information about learning:
- Observations: Teacher observations during plant dissections, animal structure investigations, and model-building activities
- Conversations: Student explanations of structure-function relationships, adaptations, and environmental interactions
Sample Assessment Tools:
- Labeled diagrams of plant and animal structures with function descriptions
- Structure-function matching activities and quizzes
- Science journals documenting observations of living organisms
- 3D models showing how structures support specific functions
Inclusive Learning Strategies
Additional Resources and Materials
For Teachers
- Plant and animal structure diagrams and posters
- Magnifying glasses and digital microscopes
- Seeds, plants, and gardening materials
- Videos and images of plant and animal adaptations
- OECS Grade 4 Science Curriculum Guide
- Field guides to local Caribbean plants and animals
For Students
- Science journals for recording observations and drawings
- Materials for creating structure-function models
- Plant and animal vocabulary cards
- Observation tools (hand lenses, rulers, etc.)
- Structure-function matching cards and games
- Plant growing kits and observation journals
Teacher Content Knowledge
Structure and Function in Grade 4 enables students to develop a deeper understanding of how living things are organized and how their parts work together. Students learn that all organisms have structures with specific functions that help them survive, grow, and reproduce in their environments. This foundational understanding helps students recognize patterns across living things while appreciating the diversity of adaptations in the natural world.