What’s the Difference in theMeaning of Certain Words

Used in Science Compared to their Use in Everyday Language?

Grade 3 Topic 2Working Like a Scientist

Words in ScienceLesson A

Benchmarks

SC.3.N.3.1 Recognize that words in science can have different or more specific meanings than their use in everyday language; for example, matter, light, heat/cold, and weight. LAFS.3.W.3.8 Recall information from experiences or gather information from print and digital sources; take brief notes on sources and sort evidence into provided categories.LAFS.3.SL.1.1 Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 3 topics and texts, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly.

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Read the sentence below:

The flag flew from the top of the pole. Write a definition for how the word pole is used.

Definition: A pole is long, round post or rod made of metal.

This is the use of pole in everyday language.

The word pole when used in science has a different meaning then when used in everyday language.

What is the meaning of pole is this science sentence?

Opposite or unlike poles on a magnet attract

each other.Division of Academics - Department of Science

What’s the difference in meaning of the word pole?

ScientificA Pole is either of the two points of a magnet where the lines of magnetic force meet and are strongest.Example:• Opposite poles on a magnet

attract each other.

Everyday LanguageA pole is a long, round post or rod made of metal, wood, or some other material.Examples:• The flag flew from the top

of the pole. • Tom went fishing with a

bamboo pole.

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What did you learn when you compared the meaning of pole

when used in science to its use in everyday language?

The meaning of the word pole used in science has a different meaning than when used in everyday language.

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Let’s look at the use of the word: matter

1. Jennifer was crying, so I asked her what was the matter.

Write a definition for how the word matter is used in everyday language.

Definition: Something that is important to talk about or do something about.

2. Water, rocks, and air are made up of matter.

What is the meaning of matter is this science sentence? Definition: A material that has mass and takes space.

Compare the meaning of matter in both sentences. What did you conclude?

The word matter when used in science has a different meaning then when used in everyday language.

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Let’s look at the use of the word Light

Everyday LanguageExamples: • Liz wondered what could be in

the box because it was so light.

• When there is light rain, the rain doesn't come down very hard.

Definition:When something is light, it doesn't have much weight or force.

Scientific Examples: • The sun produces a great

amount of light .• The light from the lamp was

not bright enough for me to read my book.

Definition:Light is the form of energy that allows your eyes to see things.

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What’s the difference in meaning of the word balance?

Everyday LanguageExample: The dancer kept her balance while standing on one toe.

Definition: The state of being steady in body or mind.

Scientific Example: The objects on the balance do not weigh the same.

Definition: An instrument or tool for weighing objects that has two flat pans hanging from or resting on a bar.

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What’s the difference in the meaning of the word weight?

Everyday LanguageExample: My father's advice had a lot of weight in my decision. Definition: importance; influence.

Example: There's a lot of weight to this bowling ball.Definition: the quality of being heavy.

Scientific

Example: Weight is measured using a scale.

Definition: A measure of how hard gravity pulls on an object. It depends on the on how much mass an object has.

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What’s the difference in the meaning of speed?

Everyday LanguageExample: The bicycle picked up speed as the boy rode down the hill.

Definition: the act of moving rapidly or swiftly.

ScientificExample: The speed of the truck broke the speed limit.

Definition: A measure of how fast an object is moving. It is found by dividing distance traveled by time.

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What’s the Difference in the meaning of producer?

Everyday LanguageExample: The Frito-Lay company is a producer of potato chips.

Definition: A producer is a person or company that makes something.

ScientificExample: Plants are producers and use the process of photosynthesis to make their own food.Definition: A producer is an organism or living thing that makes its own food.

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What conclusion can you make about how certain words are used in science as

compared to their use in everyday life?

Certain words that are used in science have a more specific definition than when used in everyday life. Sometimes their meaning is totally different.

Example 1…

Example 2…

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Brain Check: Scientific Meaning1. Balance

2. Light

3. Matter

4. Pole

5. Producer

6. Speed

7. Weight

A. An organism or living thing that makes its own food.

B. A measure of how fast an object is moving. C. Either of the two points of a magnet where

the lines of magnetic force meet and are strongest.

D. Anything that takes up space and has mass.E. A measure of how hard gravity pulls on an

object. F. The form of energy that allows your eyes to

see things. G. A tool for measuring mass that has two flat

pans hanging from or resting on a bar.

Division of Academics - Department of Science