Elementary earth science topics study the physical movement of the Earth as a celestial body in the universe, its relation to other planets and the sun and movements such as rotation and revolution that create time and seasons. Earth science extends to include interactions that occur on Earth by studying processes such as the water cycle, erosion, deposition, weather, wind and clouds and teaches about the causes and effects of natural disasters including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes, floods and mudslides.
Earth science includes topics of motion such as the force of gravity, speed and sound. Earth science delves into matter by teaching the properties of matter such as texture, temperature, volume, mass, weight and color, allowing students to make observations and classify or test matter using measurement skills and tools. Students study the states of matter through learning about molecular movement in liquids, solids and gases and chemical or physical reactions that change the states of matter.
Plant and animal topics are studied through a science unit on living things. Students study the characteristics of living things such as breathing air, reproducing young and taking in water and nutrients. Lessons on living things include the study of plant and animal behaviors and physical traits through learning the stages of growth and adaptations that assist in survival. Life science consists of exploring plant and animal interactions within ecosystems through food webs and food chains that define relationships between predators and prey and classify animals as producers, primary consumers, secondary consumers or scavengers.
The study of living things extends to include health topics on the human body, teaching the structure and interaction of body parts and organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys so students understand how their own bodies operate. Health topics that investigate the importance of physical activity, hygiene, rest and the affects of drugs, smoking and alcohol on the body teach students to make positive choices for a healthy body.