Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 1
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.1 Describe a testable hypothesis and an experimental procedure
Answer Key: B
Four identical glass jars are painted different colors. The jars are filled with equal
volumes of water and then placed in direct sunlight for four hours. The water
temperature in each jar is measured at the beginning and the end of the four hours. The
results of the investigation are shown below.
Which of the following was most likely the hypothesis for this investigation?
A. Glass jars hold more water than plastic jars.
This answer is not correct. It is stated that identical glass jars are filled with equal
volumes of water. Therefore, the hypothesis for the investigation is not comparing
whether jars made from different materials can hold different amounts of water.
B. Dark colors absorb more heat than light colors.
This answer is correct. It is stated that the four identical glass jars are all painted
with different colors. It is also stated that the starting temperatures and the
temperatures after four hours in direct sunlight are measured. Therefore, a
hypothesis for this investigation is whether dark colors absorb more heat than light
colors.
C. The amount of water in a jar affects water temperature.
This answer is not correct. It is stated that identical glass jars are filled with equal
volumes of water. Therefore, the hypothesis for the investigation is not comparing
how different amounts of water in a jar affect their temperature.
D. Most water evaporates in four hours.
This answer is not correct. The starting temperatures and the temperatures after four
hours in the sun are measured. The volume of water in each jar is not measured.
Therefore, the hypothesis for this investigation is not how much water evaporates
from the jar after four hours.
Page 1 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 2
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.2 Differentiate between an observation and an inference
Answer Key: C
A student performed an activity with soil and water. The table below shows the kind of
soil that was added to each of two cans. After the soil was added, holes were made in
the bottom of each can. Then a total of 200 milliliters of water was added to each can.
The water that dripped from each can was collected for one minute.
Which of the following is an observation in this experiment?
A. Sunlight heats water in clay faster than water in sand.
This answer is not correct. Sunlight is not part of this experimental procedure, so this
statement cannot be an observation from this experiment.
B. Plants grow better in clay than in sand.
This answer is not correct. Growing plants is not part of this experimental procedure,
so this statement cannot be an observation from this experiment.
C. Water flows through sand faster than through clay.
This answer is correct. An observation is information collected by the five senses.
In this experiment, the student collected the amount of water that flowed through
lualualei clay and sand in one minute. The student was able to see that more water
flowed through the sand than through the clay in the same amount of time.
D. Insects are more active in sand than in clay.
This answer is not correct. Insects are not part of this experimental procedure, so
this statement cannot be an observation from this experiment.
Page 2 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 3
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.2.1 Describe how the use of technology has influenced the economy,
demography, and environment of Hawai‘i
Answer Key: D
A weather satellite can take a picture of a hurricane from space and send it to Earth in
seconds.
How would the people of Hawaii benefit by having a picture of a hurricane so quickly?
A. The picture can change the direction of the hurricane.
This answer is not correct. A picture can provide information about the size and
location of a hurricane, but it cannot change the path of a hurricane.
B. People will know how long the hurricane will last.
This answer is not correct. A picture can provide information about the size and
location of a hurricane, but it cannot predict how long a hurricane will last.
C. The effect of the hurricane on the beach will be changed.
This answer is not correct. A picture can provide information about the size and
location of a hurricane, but it cannot predict how a hurricane will affect a beach.
D. People can be warned about the approaching hurricane.
This answer is correct. Satellite images of hurricanes provide information about the
size and location of a hurricane. This information can be shared with the public in
order for people to prepare for a hurricane and make decisions on whether or not to
move to safer areas.
Page 3 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 4
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.1 Compare fossils and living things
Answer Key: C
The picture below shows a fossil of a body section.
Which of the following is most similar to the body section shown above?
A.
This answer is not correct. The fossil shows the bones of a wing and this is a picture
of a single bone from a joint. The structures are not similar.
B.
This answer is not correct. The fossil shows the bones of a wing and this is a picture
of the bones from part of a backbone. The structures are not similar.
Page 4 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
C.
This answer is correct. The fossil shows the bones of a wing, which is a limb
structure. The bones of a hand are also from a limb structure. These two structures
are similar to one another.
D.
This answer is not correct. The fossil shows the bones of a wing and this is a picture
of the bones of a skull. The structures are not similar.
Page 5 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 5
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.6.1 Describe how some materials may be combined to form new
substances
Answer Key: A
Which of the following shows an example of a chemical change?
A.
This answer is correct. A chemical change is a change that results in the formation
of a new substance. Burning wood results in the formation of a new substance, ash.
B.
This answer is not correct. No new substance is formed when a piece of wood is cut
with a saw.
C.
This answer is not correct. No new substance is formed when paper is torn.
D.
This answer is not correct. No new substance is formed when a pencil is sharpened.
Page 6 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 6
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.1 Describe how slow processes sometimes shape and reshape the
surface of the Earth
Answer Key: B
The rocks in the picture below are as large as a house and were under Earth’s surface
for many thousands of years.
Which of the following is most responsible for revealing these rocks on Earth’s surface
today?
A. Falling volcanic ash
This answer is not correct. Falling volcanic ash would conceal the rocks, not expose
them.
B. Moving wind and water
This answer is correct. Moving wind and water can cause erosion. Over time, this
erosion can remove enough soil that objects, such as large rocks and plant roots,
become exposed on Earth’s surface.
C. Varying cloud conditions
This answer is not correct. Cloud conditions do not contribute to erosion. Rain, which
is produced by clouds, does this.
D. Growing plants and animals
This answer is not correct. Animals can cause minor erosion, but not enough to
expose rocks of this size. Moving wind and water erode more material than animals
and plants.
Page 7 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 7
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.3.1 Explain how simple food chains and food webs can be traced
back to plants
Answer Key: C
A food chain is shown.
Which statement describes what will happen if all the frogs die?
A. The hawk population will increase.
This answer is not correct. The snakes eat the frogs. Since the frog population has
decreased, the snake population will decrease because there are no frogs for the
snakes to eat. The hawks eat the snakes. Since the snake population will decrease,
the hawk population will also decrease because there are fewer snakes for the
hawks to eat.
B. The snake population will stay the same.
This answer is not correct. The snakes eat the frogs. Since the frog population has
decreased, the snake population will decrease.
C. The grasshopper population will increase.
This answer is correct. The frogs eat the grasshoppers. Since the frog population
has decreased, the grasshopper population will increase because there are no frogs
to eat the grasshoppers.
D. The grass population will stay the same.
This answer is not correct. The frogs eat the grasshoppers. The grasshoppers eat
the grass. Since the frog population has decreased, the grasshopper population will
increase because there are no frogs to eat the grasshoppers. Since the grasshopper
population will increase, the amount of grass will likely decrease because there are
more grasshoppers to eat the grass.
Page 8 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 8
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.3 Describe how different organisms need specific environmental
conditions to survive
Answer Key: B
The table below describes some characteristics of adult bullfrogs.
Some Characteristics of
Adult Bullfrogs
Characteristic
Bullfrog
Skin
Moist, thin skin
Eggs
Jelly-coated eggs that
dry out quickly when
exposed to air
Mating behavior
Males produce
loud croaking sounds
Breathing
Bring in oxygen
through the skin
and lungs
Food
Insects, crayfish,
small minnows
Which statement explains why bullfrogs need to live near water?
A. Bullfrogs get oxygen from water.
This answer is not correct. Bullfrogs get oxygen from air that they breathe into their
lungs.
B. Bullfrogs lay their eggs in water.
This answer is correct. Bullfrogs and all amphibians lay their jelly-coated eggs in a
water environment so that they will not dry out.
C. Bullfrogs only eat organisms that live in water.
This answer is not correct. Bullfrogs eat land organisms as well as water organisms.
D. Bullfrogs use water to make croaking sounds.
This answer is not correct. Bullfrogs use throat structures and air to produce their
croaking sounds.
Page 9 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 9
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.7.1 Describe that the mass of the Earth exerts a gravitational force
on all objects.
A class investigates whether heavier objects fall faster than lighter objects.
A basketball with a mass of 600 g and a baseball with a mass 145 g are set up to be
released at the same time from the same height as shown in the “Before Release”
diagram.
The balls are released at the same time and fall partway to the ground as shown in the
“After Release” diagram.
A. Place the baseball on the gray dashed line to show where it would be in relation to
the basketball.
B. Place the correct label in the “Type of Force” box to identify the force that the
students are testing.
Answer Key:
2 points
For this item, the response correctly:
• places the baseball on the gray dashed line next to the basketball to show
that they are falling at the same rate
AND
• places the “gravitational” label in the “Type of Force” box.
1 point
For this item, the response correctly:
• places the baseball on the gray dashed line next to the basketball to show
that they are falling at the same rate
OR
• places the “gravitational” label in the “Type of Force” box.
0 points
The response is incorrect for both parts. The response does not have the baseball in the
correct position along the gray dashed line and does not have the correct label in the
“Type of Force” box.
Page 10 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Sample Student Answer:
Explanation of Correct Answer:
The basketball and baseball fall at the same speed. Since the balls are released at the
same time, they will continue to be next to each other during the fall to the ground. The
force that pulls the balls to the ground is the gravitational force.
Page 11 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 10
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.6.2 Explain what is needed for electricity to flow in a circuit to create
light and sound
Answer Key: C
A circuit is shown.
What will happen if a wire is disconnected?
A. Electricity will continue to flow.
This answer is not correct. Disconnecting a wire prevents electricity from flowing.
B. The battery will run out of energy.
This answer is not correct. Disconnecting a wire will not drain the battery's power.
Without a wire, the battery is not able to supply power to the bulb and bell.
C. The bell will be unable to ring.
This answer is correct. The wire moves the electricity throughout the circuit. If a wire is
disconnected, electricity cannot reach the bulb or bell.
D. The bulb will stay lit.
This answer is not correct. Disconnecting a wire will stop electricity from reaching the
bulb. The bulb will not stay lit without electricity.
Page 12 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 11
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.4.1 Identify the basic differences between plant cells and animal cells
Answer Key: C
A student uses a microscope to look at cells from different parts of a plant. She notices
that one cell structure is more common in the leaf cells than in the root cells of the plant.
Which cell structure is found more often in leaf cells than in root cells?
A. Cell membrane
This answer is not correct. A cell membrane surrounds the cytoplasm of a cell. All
plant cells, including root cells, have a cell membrane.
B. Cell nucleus
This answer is not correct. A cell’s nucleus contains genetic material. Plants cells,
including leaf and root cells, have a nucleus.
C. Chloroplast
This answer is correct. Chloroplasts produce food for the plant from sunlight. A
plant’s root cells are usually underground where there is no light so there are few
chloroplasts in these cells. Leaf cells are usually above ground where there is a lot of
light, so there are a lot of chloroplasts in these cells.
D. Cytoplasm
This answer is not correct. All plant cells, including root cells, have cytoplasm that
fills the cells.
Page 13 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 12
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.2 Differentiate between an observation and an inference
Answer Key: A
A student makes a model of a volcano using paper and glue. The student’s teacher puts
on goggles and an apron. The teacher pours baking soda and vinegar into the volcano
model. For 30 seconds, a white substance bubbles and expands out of the volcano.
Which observation allows the student to conclude that a chemical reaction occurred?
A. A white substance bubbled and expanded.
This answer is correct. Expansion and bubbling are common pieces of evidence
that a chemical reaction is occurring.
B. Something happened for 30 seconds.
This answer is not correct. The duration of the eruption provides no evidence that
would allow the student to conclude that the eruption was caused by a chemical
reaction.
C. The teacher wore goggles and an apron.
This answer is not correct. The safety precautions the teacher took while performing
the demonstration provide no evidence that would allow the student to conclude that
the eruption was caused by a chemical reaction.
D. The volcano was made from paper and glue.
This answer is not correct. The materials used to make the volcano provide no
evidence that would allow the student to conclude that the eruption was caused by a
chemical reaction.
Page 14 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 13
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.2 Describe the roles of various organisms in the same environment
The picture shows a meadow ecosystem.
A. Find a producer in the ecosystem and move it to the Producer box.
B. Find a consumer in the ecosystem and move it to the Consumer box.
C. Find a decomposer in the ecosystem and move it to the Decomposer box.
•
Move only one organism into each box.
Answer Key:
2 points
For this item, the response correctly:
• places the shrub or flower in the Producer box
AND
• places the deer, hawk, or rabbit in the Consumer box
AND
• places the worm or mushrooms in the Decomposer box.
1 point
For this item, the response correctly:
• includes any of the three bullets above.
0 points
The response is incorrect for all three parts. The response does not have the shrub or
flower in the Producer box, does not have the deer, hawk or rabbit in the Consumer box
and does not have the worm or mushrooms in the Decomposer box.
Page 15 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Sample Student Answer:
Explanation of Correct Answer:
The shrub and flower are producers because they convert water and carbon dioxide to
oxygen and sugar through the process of photosynthesis. The deer, hawk, and rabbit
are consumers because they eat the shrubs, flowers, and/or other animals. The worms
and mushrooms are decomposers because they break down dead plants and animals.
Page 16 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 14
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.3 Describe the relationship between the sun and the Earth's daily
rotation and annual revolution
Answer Key: A
The Earth, moon and sun have regular and predictable motions.
Which pair of models shows a correct comparison of the motions of these objects?
A.
This answer is correct. Earth's revolution takes 365 days and Earth's rotation
takes 24 hours.
B.
This answer is not correct. The moon's rotation is 27 days and Earth's revolution is
365 days.
C.
This answer is not correct. Earth's rotation is 24 hours and the moon's revolution is
27 days.
D.
This answer is not correct. The moon's revolution and the moon's rotation are of
equal length.
Page 17 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 15
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.3.2 Describe how an organism's behavior is determined by its
environment
Answer Key: D
The ‘opihi is a snail that has a soft body under a hard shell. ‘Opihi live on rocks along the
ocean shore. They are underwater during high tide and out of the water during low tide.
When the ‘opihi are out of the water, they press their shells tightly against rock surfaces.
Which statement explains why the ‘opihi press their shells tightly against the rocks when
they are out of the water?
A. Pressing against the rocks helps the ‘opihi catch food.
This answer is not correct. The ‘opihi eat when they are out of their shells and
moving along the rocks.
B. Pressing against the rocks keeps the ‘opihi from getting wet.
This answer is not correct. The ‘opihi press against the rocks when they are out of
the water. There is no need to protect themselves from getting wet.
C. Pressing against the rocks keeps the ‘opihi warm.
This answer is not correct. When out of the water, the ‘opihi will be in the sun. The
sun will warm them.
D. Pressing against the rocks protects the ‘opihi from drying out.
This answer is correct. Pressing against rocks when not underwater protects the
‘opihi’s body from the drying effects of the wind and sun.
Page 18 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 16
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.2 Describe the roles of various organisms in the same environment
Answer Key: D
Pitcher plants make nectar, which attracts insects. These plants also have leaves that
hold small pools of water. The insides of these leaves are slippery. Insects that fall into
the water cannot climb out, and are consumed by the plant.
Which statement describes the relationship of the pitcher plants and the insects?
A. The insects and the pitcher plants are predators of each other.
This answer is not correct. The pitcher plant traps and consumes the insects. The
insects are prey, not predators.
B. The insects are producers for the pitcher plants.
This answer is not correct. Insects are not producers. They do not perform
photosynthesis.
C. The pitcher plant is a decomposer of the insects.
This answer is not correct. Decomposers break down dead matter. The pitcher plant
traps live insects, so it is not a decomposer.
D. The pitcher plant preys on the insects.
This answer is correct. A pitcher plant is a predator that feeds on insects (its prey).
Page 19 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 17
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.2 Describe how fast processes (e.g., volcanoes, earthquakes)
sometimes shape and reshape the surface of the Earth
Answer Key: B
A student drew the graphic organizer below for an assignment on natural events.
Which of the following best completes the graphic organizer?
A. Glaciers
This answer is not correct. Glaciers are huge rivers or sheets of ice. Ash, steam,
and lava are too hot to be characteristics of glaciers.
B. Volcanoes
This answer is correct. Volcanoes happen when lava, ash, and steam escape from
an opening in Earth’s crust. Some volcanoes form islands.
C. Hurricanes
This answer is not correct. Hurricanes are storms with high winds and rain.
D. Earthquakes
This answer is not correct. Lava and ash are not characteristics of earthquakes.
Page 20 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 18
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.2 Describe how fast processes (e.g., volcanoes, earthquakes)
sometimes shape and reshape the surface of the Earth
Answer Key: C
An area received constant, heavy rain for one week.
How could the land surface change quickly as a result of this rain?
A. Earthquakes would cause cracks in the surface of the land.
This answer is not correct. Earthquakes are an example of a geologic event that
happens quickly, but earthquakes are not the result of rainfall.
B. Jagged mountains would become smooth hills.
This answer is not correct. Rain contributes to jagged mountains becoming smooth
hills, but this is a slow process.
C. Mud and soil would slide downward on steep hillsides.
This answer is correct. Landslides and mudslides often are triggered by heavy
rainfall that loosens steep slopes.
D. Sharp rocks in a stream would become smooth and round.
This answer is not correct. Rain can contribute to faster-flowing streams that lead to
the weathering of rocks. However, this is a slow process.
Page 21 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 19
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.1: Compare fossils and living things
Answer Key: C
Answer Key (Part II): B; H
Part A
While digging in a desert, scientists find a trilobite fossil. The fossil is shown.
Which type of environment did the desert area used to be?
A. Desert
This answer is not correct. Trilobites lived in the ocean. Discovery of their fossils
would indicate a previous ocean environment, not a desert environment.
B. Forest
This answer is not correct. Trilobites lived in the ocean. Discovery of their fossils
would indicate a previous ocean environment, not a forest environment.
C. Ocean
This answer is correct. Trilobites lived in the ocean. Their fossils would indicate
a previous ocean environment.
D. River
This answer is not correct. Trilobites lived in the ocean. Their fossils would
indicate a previous ocean environment, not a river environment.
Page 22 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Part B
Select two fossils that would provide supporting evidence for this past environment if
found in the desert.
A.
This answer is not correct. Birds are land organisms and the discovery of a bird
fossil would indicate a past forest environment, not an ocean environment.
B.
This answer is correct. Coral is a marine organism and the discovery of a coral
fossil would indicate a previous ocean environment.
C.
This answer is not correct. This type of dinosaur was a land organism and the
discovery of this dinosaur fossil would indicate a past desert or forest
environment, not an ocean environment.
Page 23 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
D.
This answer is not correct. Frogs typically live in shallow, freshwater
environments such as lakes, rivers, and swamps. The discovery of a frog fossil
would indicate a past river environment, not an ocean environment.
E.
This answer is not correct. Leaves fall from trees on land and the discovery of a
leaf fossil would indicate a past forest environment, not an ocean environment.
F.
This answer is not correct. This lizard is a land organism and the discovery of this
lizard fossil would indicate a past forest or desert environment, not an ocean
environment.
G.
This answer is not correct. A mastodon was a land organism and the discovery of
a mastodon fossil would indicate a past forest environment, not an ocean
environment.
Page 24 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
H.
This answer is correct. A shark is a marine organism and the discovery of a
fossil of part of a shark would indicate a past ocean environment.
Page 25 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 20
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.2 Describe how fast processes (e.g., volcanoes, earthquakes)
sometimes shape and reshape the surface of the Earth).
A list of natural events is shown.
Click and drag the natural events to classify each natural event as either a fast or slow
process that could shape and reshape Earth’s surface.
Page 26 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Exemplar:
For this item, a full-credit response includes
Under fast process:
An earthquake causing a crack along a road
A mountain side collapses causing a landslide
A tsunami pushes sediment inland
Under slow process:
A glacier melts depositing sediment
Wind weathers a rock
Waves carve an arch in a sea cliff
Page 27 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Simulation for Question 21
Students conduct a variety of experiments to understand how electricity flows through a
circuit to produce light.
Use the simulation to conduct your own experiments. Your results will be shown in the
table.
Explanation of How to Use Simulation:
The student can choose zero, one, or two batteries from the “Number of Batteries” drop‒down
menu.
The student can choose a light bulb, closed switch, buzzer, or wire from the “Circuit
Components” drop‒down menu.
The student can choose one of four mystery components from the “Mystery Components”
drop‒down menu.
After making these choices, the student presses the green “Start” button. An animation shows
the circuit’s behavior in the chosen conditions, and the output table populates with the
information shown, depending on the student’s choices.
Page 28 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Number of
Batteries
0
1
2
0
1
2
Circuit
Component
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Mystery Component
Observations
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
0
Buzzer
Mystery Component 1
1
Buzzer
Mystery Component 1
2
Buzzer
Mystery Component 1
0
1
2
0
1
2
0
1
2
0
Wire
Wire
Wire
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Buzzer
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 1
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
1
Buzzer
Mystery Component 2
2
Buzzer
Mystery Component 2
0
1
2
0
1
2
0
1
2
0
Wire
Wire
Wire
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Buzzer
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 2
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
1
Buzzer
Mystery Component 3
2
Buzzer
Mystery Component 3
0
1
2
0
Wire
Wire
Wire
Light Bulb
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 3
Mystery Component 4
Neither light bulb turns on
Light bulb is dimly lit
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is brightly lit
Neither light bulb nor buzzer turn
on
Light bulb is dimly lit; Buzzer
makes soft noise
Light bulb is a normal
brightness; Buzzer makes a
noise
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is brightly lit
Neither light bulb turns on
Both light bulbs do not turn on
Both light bulbs do not turn on
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb does not turn on
Neither light bulb nor buzzer turn
on
Neither light bulb nor buzzer turn
on
Neither light bulb nor buzzer turn
on
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb does not turn on
Neither light bulb turns on
Light bulb is very dimly lit
Light bulb is dimly lit
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb is dimly lit
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Neither light bulb nor buzzer turn
on
Light bulb is very dimly lit;
Buzzer makes very soft noise
Light bulb is dimly lit; Buzzer
makes a soft noise
Light bulb does not turn on
Light bulb is dimly lit
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is dimly lit
Page 29 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Number of
Batteries
1
2
0
1
2
0
Circuit
Component
Light Bulb
Light Bulb
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Closed Switch
Buzzer
Mystery Component
Observations
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
1
Buzzer
Mystery Component 4
2
Buzzer
Mystery Component 4
0
1
2
Wire
Wire
Wire
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Mystery Component 4
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is brightly lit
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is brightly lit
Light bulb is very brightly lit
Light bulb is dimly lit; Buzzer
makes soft noise
Light bulb is a normal
brightness; Buzzer makes a
noise
Light bulb is brightly lit; Buzzer
makes a loud noise
Light bulb is a normal brightness
Light bulb is brightly lit
Light bulb is very brightly lit
Page 30 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 21
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.6.2 Explain what is needed for electricity to flow in a circuit to create
light and sound
Answer Key: B
A student constructs the circuit shown.
Use the simulation to build the same circuit.
Which component is in the circuit?
A. Mystery Component 1
This answer is not correct. The light bulb would be dimly lit if it was Mystery
Component.
B. Mystery Component 2
This answer is correct. The light bulb is not lit. This is the same result as
Mystery Component 2 in the simulation.
C. Mystery Component 3
This answer is not correct. The light bulb would be very dimly lit if it was Mystery
Component 3.
D. Mystery Component 4
This answer is not correct. The light bulb would be lit at an intensity of normal
brightness if it was Mystery Component 4.
Page 31 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 22
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.2 Differentiate between and observation and an inference
Answer Key: D
Using only the senses of touch and smell, a class is examining a substance.
Which of the following statements is most likely to be an inference about the substance?
A. The substance sticks to the fingers when touched.
This answer is not correct. This is an observation about the substance’s behavior.
B. The substance has no odor.
This answer is not correct. This is an observation about the substance’s smell.
C. The substance feels very soft when touched by the fingers.
This answer is not correct. This is an observation about the substance’s texture.
D. The substance is powdered sugar.
This answer is correct. This is an inference about what the substance is, based on
the observations.
Page 32 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 23
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.6.1 Describe how some materials may be combined to form new
substances
Answer Key: C
A class performed four activities. In each activity, two materials were combined and
stirred. The results for each activity are shown below.
Class Activity Results
Activity
Material X
Material Y
Results
1
Vinegar
Water
Clear liquid
2
Cereal
flakes
Milk
Cereal flakes float in milk
3
Vinegar
Milk
Bits of white solids form
4
Cereal
flakes
Water
Cereal flakes float in
water
Which activity resulted in a new substance being produced?
A. Activity 1
This answer is not correct. When two clear liquids mix to make another clear liquid,
there is no evidence of a new substance being formed.
B. Activity 2
This answer is not correct. The flakes and milk are being mixed but they are not
forming a new substance.
C. Activity 3
This answer is correct. The bits of white solid forming are evidence of a new
substance.
D. Activity 4
This answer is not correct. The flakes and water are being mixed but not forming a
new substance.
Page 33 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 24
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.7.1 Describe that the mass of the Earth exerts a gravitational force
on all objects.
Answer Key: C
The moon orbits Earth.
What keeps the moon in its orbit around Earth?
A. The asteroid belt
This answer is not correct. The asteroid belt does not keep the moon in its orbit.
B. The outer planets
This answer is not correct. The outer planets do not keep the moon in its orbit around
Earth.
C. Gravitational force
This answer is correct. Gravity from Earth keeps the moon in orbit.
D. Reflected sunlight
This answer is not correct. Reflected sunlight is the reason we can see the moon’s
phases, but it does not cause its orbit.
Page 34 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 25
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.1 Describe how slow processes sometimes shape and reshape the
surface of the Earth
Answer Key: A
Which of the following most likely takes the longest time?
A. A mountaintop moving upward because of plate movement
This answer is correct. The pace of plate movements is very slow. Plates can only
move a few centimeters a year.
B. Water moving small rocks down a river over a waterfall
This answer is not correct. It may take minutes for this to happen, which is faster
than plate movement.
C. Wind blowing dirt from a river bank into a river
This answer is not correct. Wind erosion happens over shorter timescales than plate
movements.
D. An earthquake causing a large rock to fall off the side of a mountain
This answer is not correct. An earthquake is an instantaneous Earth process. It
happens very fast.
Page 35 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 26
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.7.1 Describe that the mass of the Earth exerts a gravitational force
on all objects.
Answer Key: C
A student jumps up in the air.
The arrow in which picture shows the force of gravity on the student?
A.
This answer is not correct. The force of gravity on Earth always pulls down toward
Earth, not parallel to Earth.
B.
This answer is not correct. The force of gravity on Earth always pulls down toward
Earth instead of pushing away from Earth.
Page 36 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
C.
This answer is correct. The force of gravity on Earth always pulls down toward
Earth.
D.
This answer is not correct. The force of gravity on Earth always pulls down toward
Earth, not parallel to Earth.
Page 37 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 27
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.3 Describe how different organisms need specific environmental
conditions to survive
Answer Key: B
Certain pine trees store their seeds in tightly closed pine cones. Very high temperatures
make these pine cones burst open and release many seeds.
Which event would cause many pine cones to open?
A. A heavy rain
This answer is not correct. Heavy rain may help seeds germinate, but it will not
cause the pine cones to burst open.
B. A natural wildfire
This answer is correct. A forest fire would expose the pine cones to the high heat
required to trigger it to burst open.
C. An increase in nutrients
This answer is not correct. An increase in nutrients could help new plants grow, but it
will not cause the pine cones to burst open.
D. A strong wind
This answer is not correct. A strong wind could spread seeds once they are
released, but it will not cause the pine cones to burst open.
Page 38 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 28
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.3.1 Explain how simple food chains and food webs can be traced
back to plants
Answer Key: D
Which organism in the food web shown makes its own food instead of eating other
organisms?
A. Clam
This answer is not correct. The food web shows that the clam feeds on plankton.
B. Sea star
This answer is not correct. The sea star is shown to consume the snail and the clam
in the web.
C. Snail
This answer is not correct. The food web shows that the snail feeds on plankton.
D. Plankton
This answer is correct. The food web shows that phytoplankton do not feed on
other organisms. Phytoplankton make their own food using the energy in sunlight.
Page 39 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 29
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.4.1 Identify the basic differences between plant cells and animal cells
Answer Key: B
Which structure is found in plant cells and not in animal cells?
A. Cell membrane
This answer is not correct. Both plant and animal cells have cell membranes.
B. Cell wall
This answer is correct. Plant cells have cell walls and animal cells do not.
C. Mitochondrion
This answer is not correct. Both plant and animal cells have mitochondria.
D. Nucleus
This answer is not correct. Both plant and animal cells have nuclei.
Page 40 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 30
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.3.2 Describe how an organism's behavior is determined by its
environment
Answer Key: C
Deserts receive very little rainfall each year. The air is very dry and daytime
temperatures can reach 120 °F.
Which behavior would help an organism survive in a desert environment?
A. Building nests in open areas
This answer is not correct. Building a nest in an open area would not protect the
organism from heat and would provide less protection against predator attacks.
B. Drinking less water than necessary
This answer is not correct. Organisms need to drink water in order to stay hydrated
in a dry desert environment. Drinking less would be harmful to the organism.
C. Searching for food during the night
This answer is correct. Being active at night when temperatures are lower is a
behavioral adaptation seen in many desert organisms. This helps the organism avoid
getting overheated during the day.
D. Traveling long distances during the day
This answer is not correct. Traveling long distances could use up energy and water
and would not protect the organisms from heat.
Page 41 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 31
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.5.3 Describe how different organisms need specific environmental
conditions to survive
Answer Key: B
This picture shows two moths that belong to the same species. These moths live in
forests and are often hunted by birds.
Which type of environment would help both moths survive?
A. Trees with dark bark
This answer is not correct. Without trees with light bark or light-colored moss to
provide camouflage, the lighter form of the moth would be more easily hunted by the
birds.
B. Trees with dark bark and some light-colored moss
This answer is correct. The dark bark provides camouflage to the darker form of
the moth, and the presence of light-colored moss provides camouflage to the lighter
form of the moth. This environment enhances the chances of survival of both types
of moth against predation by birds.
C. Trees with light bark
This answer is not correct. Without dark bark to provide camouflage, the darker form
of the moth would be more easily hunted by birds.
D. Trees with light bark and some light-colored moss
This answer is not correct. The darker moths would be more visible to predators on
trees with light-colored bark and moss.
Page 42 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 32
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.6.2 Explain what is needed for electricity to flow in a circuit to create
light and sound
Answer Key: B
A student has the four objects shown.
Which three objects are needed to make a circuit that will light the light bulb?
A. Battery, light bulb, and switch
This answer is not correct. The student will need wires to connect the light bulb and
battery.
B. Light bulb, wires, and battery
This answer is correct. The battery powers the light bulb and these two objects are
electrically connected by the wires.
C. Switch, battery, and wires
This answer is not correct. The student will need a light bulb to create a circuit that
lights the bulb.
D. Wires, light bulb, and switch
This answer is not correct. The student will need a battery to provide electricity to the
bulb.
Page 43 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 33
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.3.2 Describe how an organism’s behavior is determined by its
environment
Answer Key: C
The ‘ina ‘ula is a sea urchin that lives on rocks in the tide pools in Hawai‘i. Strong waves
wash over the rocks during parts of the day. The ‘ina ‘ula uses its teeth and spines to dig
holes in the rocks. It spends most of its time in these holes.
Which statement best explains why the ‘ina ‘ula digs holes in rocks?
A. To find a mate
This answer is not correct. Mates are not found inside the holes in the rocks.
B. To keep dry
This answer is not correct. The sea urchin is adapted to living in sea water and does
not need to keep dry.
C. To protect itself
This answer is correct. Spending time in the rock holes protects the sea urchin
from the strong waves that pelt the rocks.
D. To stay warm
This answer is not correct. The sea urchin is not warm-blooded and does not need to
maintain a particular body temperature.
Page 44 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 34
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.2.1 Describe how the use of technology has influenced the economy,
demography, and environment of Hawaii
Answer Key: B
Kilauea Volcano is located on the island of Hawai‘i. Energy from this volcano is used by
a power plant to produce electricity for the island. This power plant helps the economy of
Hawai‘i. It also uses a renewable resource.
What type of energy from the Kilauea Volcano is used to produce electricity?
A. Fossil fuel
This answer is not correct. Fossil fuels form when plant or animal remains are buried
for a long time and turn to fuels. This does not happen in volcanoes.
B. Geothermal
This answer is correct. Geothermal energy uses heat within Earth to generate
electricity. A large amount of heat is present at a volcano.
C. Solar
This answer is not correct. Solar energy comes from the sun.
D. Wind
This answer is not correct. Wind is not produced by a volcano.
Page 45 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 35
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.3 Describe the relationship between the sun and the Earth’s daily
rotation and annual revolution
Answer Key: D
The picture shows the sun and Earth. The point of view is from above the North Pole,
looking down. Notice where Hawai‘i is located.
About what time is it in Hawai‘i?
A. Sunrise
This answer is not correct. Hawai‘i is on the opposite side of Earth from the sun. The
sun will not rise for about 6 hours when Earth turns so that Hawai‘i is at the top of the
circle.
B. Noon
This answer is not correct. Hawai‘i will be facing the sun when it experiences noon.
Noon will be 12 hours later.
C. Sunset
This answer is not correct. Sunset was about 6 hours ago. Hawai‘i will be near the
bottom of the circle when it experiences sunset.
D. Midnight
This answer is correct. Hawai‘i is in Earth’s shadow on the side opposite the sun
and has been there for about 6 hours, and so it is about midnight.
Page 46 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 36
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.2 Differentiate between an observation and an inference
Answer Key: B
Which statement about dolphins is an observation?
A. Dolphins are the smartest animals.
This answer is not correct. This is an interpretation of dolphin behavior.
B. Dolphins can jump out of the water.
This answer is correct. This statement is an observation about dolphins.
C. Dolphins eat too many fish.
This answer is not correct. This is an opinion about dolphins and their environment.
D. Dolphins should be protected.
This answer is not correct. This is an opinion about how people should interact with
dolphins.
Page 47 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 37
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.2.1 Describe how the use of technology has influenced the economy,
demography, and environment of Hawai‘i
Answer Key: A
Some garbage contains materials that can be recycled. In parts of Hawai‘i, materials in
garbage that cannot be recycled are separated and burned in special machines that
generate electricity. When garbage is recycled or burned, less trash goes into landfills.
Which statement describes a positive result of using garbage to generate electricity?
A. Less habitat is destroyed to make landfills.
This answer is correct. When less space is needed for landfills, less habitat is
likely to be destroyed.
B. People throw away less garbage.
This answer is not correct. The burning of garbage for energy can dispose of some
garbage, but it is unlikely to impact how much garbage people produce.
C. People use less electricity in their homes.
This answer is not correct. The way electricity is produced will not necessarily
change the amount of electricity people use.
D. Recycled materials are used more often.
This answer is not correct. The production of energy from garbage is not related to
the use of recycled materials.
Page 48 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 38
Reporting Category: Life Science
Benchmark: SC.4.4.1 Identify the basic differences between plant cells and animal cells
An animal and a plant cell are shown.
A. Place the correct number and type of structures into the Animal Cell to identify the
structures in an animal cell.
B. Place the correct number and type of structures into the Plant Cell to identify the
structures in a plant cell.
•
You may use each structure more than once.
Answer Key:
2 points
For this item, the response correctly:
• places only one Nucleus AND at least one Mitochondrion AND zero Chloroplasts,
and zero or more Vacuoles in the Animal Cell (1 point);
AND
• places only one Nucleus AND only one Vacuole, AND at least one Chloroplast, and
Mitochondrion in the Plant Cell (1 point).
Note: The student neither gains nor loses credit for including or not including vacuoles in
the animal cell.
1 point
For this item, the response correctly:
• places only one Nucleus AND at least one Mitochondrion AND zero Chloroplasts,
and zero or more Vacuoles in the Animal Cell (1 point);
OR
• places only one Nucleus AND only one Vacuole, AND at least one Chloroplast, and
Mitochondrion in the Plant Cell (1 point).
0 points
The response is incorrect for both parts. The student does not put the correct organelles
in either cell.
Page 49 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Sample Student Answer:
Explanation of Correct Answer:
Animal cells and plant cells have different organelles. While they both have a nucleus
and mitochondria, only a plant cell has chloroplasts. Plant cells have one large vacuole.
Animal cells may have one or more smaller vacuoles.
Page 50 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 39
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.1 Describe a testable hypothesis and an experimental procedure
Students are studying different kinds of plants and the conditions that they grow in. They
have planted four kinds of young plants.
Design and run an experiment that will show the effects of different amounts of water on
these plants.
Explanation of How to Use Simulation:
The student can choose Little, Medium, or A Lot from the “Amount of Water” drop‒down menu.
The student can choose Shade or Direct Sun from the “Amount of Light” drop‒down menu.
After making these choices, the student presses the green “Start” button. An animation shows
the plants respond to the chosen conditions and the output table populates with the information
shown, depending on the student’s choices.
Page 51 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Answer Key:
1 point:
For this item the response correctly:
• selects each “Amount of Water” once for a total of three trials;
AND
• the “Amount of Light” kept constant for each of the three trials;
OR
•
•
selects two different “Amount of Water” once for a total of two trials;
AND
the “Amount of Light” kept constant for each of the two trials;
OR
•
•
selects two different “Amount of Water” twice for a total of four trials;
AND
the “Amount of light” kept constant for each of the four trials
Example of Student Answer:
Explanation of Correct Answer:
In order to test the plants’ reactions to different amounts of water, the student should test
different levels of water, while keeping the amount of sunlight constant. The student may
test two or three levels of water, and some students may choose to repeat the trials
more than once.
Page 52 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 40
Reporting Category: Scientific Process
Benchmark: SC.4.1.1 Describe a testable hypothesis and an experimental procedure
Answer Key: B
A student notices that apples vary in sweetness, and he wants to determine the cause.
Which of the following should be done first when developing a scientific investigation
based on this observation?
A. Perform an experiment.
This answer is not correct. It is important to determine what is being testing before
the experiment.
B. Form a hypothesis.
This answer is correct. Forming a hypothesis is a first step in this inquiry.
C. Write a conclusion.
This answer is not correct. Writing a conclusion comes after experimentation and
data analysis.
D. Construct a graph.
This answer is not correct. Constructing a graph comes after collecting the data to be
graphed.
Page 53 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Question 41
Reporting Category: Physical, Earth, and Space Science
Benchmark: SC.4.8.3 Describe the relationship between the sun and the Earth’s daily
rotation and annual revolution
Earth’s motions cause different conditions to occur on Earth.
A. Place the correct label(s) in “Earth’s Motion Around Sun” blank boxes to show which
characteristics are caused by Earth moving around the sun.
B. Place the correct label(s) in “Earth’s Motion Around Its Axis” blank boxes to show which
characteristics are caused by Earth moving around its axis.
•
•
You do not need to put a label in each blank box.
You do not need to use every label.
Answer Key:
2 points
For this item, the response correctly:
• places length of year in “Earth’s Motion Around Sun” boxes with no incorrect labels in
“Earth’s Motion Around Sun” boxes (1 point)
AND
• places cycle of day and night and hours of sunlight per day in “Earth’s Motion Around Its
Axis” boxes with no incorrect labels in “Earth’s Motion Around Its Axis” boxes (1 point).
1 point
For this item, the response correctly:
• places length of year in “Earth’s Motion Around Sun” boxes with no incorrect labels in
“Earth’s Motion Around Sun” boxes (1 point)
OR
• places cycle of day and night and hours of sunlight per day in “Earth’s Motion Around Its
Axis” boxes with no incorrect labels in “Earth’s Motion Around Its Axis” boxes (1 point).
0 points
Neither “Earth’s Motion Around Sun” nor “Earth’s Motion Around Its Axis” boxes contain
the correct statements.
Page 54 of 55
Grade 4 Science Practice Test Answer Key
Sample Student Answer:
Explanation of Correct Answer:
One year is the amount of time it takes for the Earth to revolve around the sun, so the
Earth’s motion around the sun determines the length of the year. The motion of Earth
around its axis is responsible for the day-night cycle. The hours of sunlight per day is
part of the day-night cycle.
Page 55 of 55