Virginia SOL 4.1.c.iv

Science4th GradeScientific and Engineering Practices

The Standard

analyze data from tests of an object or tool to determine whether it works as intended

Virginia Standards of Learning for Science · The student will demonstrate an understanding of scientific and engineering practices by

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students compare test results with a clear purpose or success target. They use measurements and observations to decide whether an object or tool works as intended. They support the decision with data.
What Mastery Looks Like: Students can read a table of results, spot patterns across trials, and compare each result with the target. They make a clear claim and cite specific measurements as evidence.
Common Misconceptions: Students may judge an object by its appearance or by one successful trial. They may ignore results that do not support their claim. Some confuse personal opinions with measured data.
How to Assess It: Give this exit ticket: “A paper bridge must hold at least 20 washers in each of three trials. It held 18, 22, and 21. Did it work as intended? Use data to explain.”

Lesson moves

Teams test three paper-towel designs on measured water spills, record the amount absorbed, and decide which design meets a stated target.
Show mixed flashlight test results and ask, “Does the flashlight work as intended, and which two results support your claim?”
Play Data Detective: pairs sort test cards into meets, does not meet, or needs more evidence, then defend one choice.
Compare helmet test data from three designs with a maximum-impact limit, then recommend the design a bike shop should stock.

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