Zambia Grade 4 Integrated Science

This course introduces learners to scientific concepts related to the human body, health, the environment, plants and animals, and materials and energy. It emphasizes hands-on activities and learning through exploration. The curriculum integrates environmental science, home economics, and agricultural science, along with cross-cutting issues like environmental care, reproductive health, HIV/AIDS awareness, hygiene, nutrition, substance abuse, and water and sanitation.

The Human Body

Learners explore the external and internal parts of the human body, their functions, and the five senses. They also learn about the stages of human life and the role of clinics in community health.

Specific topics include:

• External Body Parts: Identifying and appreciating the various external parts of the human body.
• Senses: Understanding the five senses and their associated organs.
• Stages of Human Life: Recognizing the different stages of the human life cycle and the activities associated with each stage.
• The Eye: Learning the basic parts and function of the eye.
• The Ear: Learning the basic parts and function of the ear.
• The Skin: Identifying the parts and functions of the skin.

Health

This section focuses on personal hygiene, common diseases, and the importance of clean food and water. Traditional and conventional medicines are also discussed.

Specific topics include:

• Personal Hygiene: Understanding the importance of cleanliness for disease prevention and practicing proper hygiene habits.
• Water in the Body: Learning about the importance of water for bodily functions and the effects of dehydration.
• Medicines: Identifying traditional and conventional medicines used for common ailments.
• Common Diseases: Learning about common communicable diseases and their prevention.

The Environment

Learners study the local environment, its features, and the importance of environmental care. They also explore different types of pollution and ways to conserve natural resources.

Specific topics include:

• Local Environment: Identifying features of the local environment and distinguishing between urban and rural environments.
• Forests: Understanding the importance of forests and the effects of human activities on them.
• Game Management Areas: Learning about wildlife conservation and threats to wildlife.
• Soils: Classifying soil types and understanding how to improve soil fertility.
• Pollution: Identifying different types of pollution and their sources.

Plants and Animals

This section covers the classification of plants and animals, their life cycles, and their roles in the environment. Learners also explore the importance of domestic animals and the control of pests and parasites.

Specific topics include:

• Flowering Plants: Learning about the parts and functions of flowering plants.
• Plant Growth: Investigating the conditions necessary for seed germination and plant growth.
• Domestic Animals: Identifying common domestic animals and their importance in the community.
• Animal Classification: Classifying animals into vertebrates and invertebrates.

Materials and Energy

Learners investigate different types of materials, their properties, and their uses. They also explore concepts related to forces, air, magnets, light, and simple machines.

Specific topics include:

• Forces: Identifying different types of forces and their effects.
• Air: Understanding the properties and uses of air.
• Magnets: Exploring the properties of magnets and magnetic materials.
• Light: Investigating the movement and passage of light through different materials.

This comprehensive curriculum aims to equip Grade 4 learners in Zambia with a foundational understanding of scientific concepts and principles, fostering curiosity and an appreciation for the natural world.