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changes carefully, observe closely, and look for patterns. What's exciting is
that even something as ordinary as a puri puffing up in hot oil is still not fully

understood by scientists! In the same way, nature is full of mysteries, like
how the bright part of the Moon slowly shrinks after purnima (full moon).
The key is to let your curiosity and careful observations lead the way. That is
how you can explore the investigative world of science, step by step, just

like a true scientist.

Know Your Scientist
Marie Curie (1867-1934) Marie Curie was a pioneering scientist who discovered the elements polonium and
radium. She was the first person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences – Physics and Chemistry. Her
research on radioactivity helped develop X- ray machines and cancer treatments. Her work showed how
careful observation and experiment can lead to discoveries that change the world.

Grasp-Up

Inves ga on: A careful study or observa on to find answers to ques ons.
Hypothesis: A possible explana on that can be tested through experiments.
Experiment: A planned ac vity to test a hypothesis or observe results.
Observa on: Using our senses or instruments to gather informa on.
Inference: A logical conclusion based on observa ons and evidence.
Variable: A factor that can change in an experiment.
Force: A push or pull that changes the mo on or shape of an object.
Pressure: The force ac ng on a surface per unit area.
Ma er: Anything that has mass and occupies space.
Element: A pure substance made of only one kind of atom.
Compound: A substance formed when two or more elements combine chemically.
Mixture: A combina on of substances that can be separated physically.
Light: A form of energy that enables us to see things.
Reflec on: The bouncing back of light from a surface.
Refrac on: The bending of light when it passes from one medium to another.
Phase of the Moon: The changing appearance of the Moon due to its revolu on around Earth.
Ecosystem: A system formed by the interac on of living organisms with each other and with their
surroundings.

Points to Reflect
• Science helps us to ask questions, observe carefully, and find answers to everyday mysteries.
• We can investigate things around us, like why a puri puffs up or how the Moon changes shape.
• Forces and pressure explain motion, air movement, and weather changes.
• All substances around us are made of elements, compounds, and mixtures.
• Light helps us understand reflection, refraction, and the phases of the Moon.

• Living things depend on air, water, sunlight, and each other to form balanced ecosystems.
• By being curious and thoughtful, we can use science to understand and improve our world.

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