Basic Science Primary 3 First Term Notes

Complete Lesson Notes • NERDC Aligned • 2026

SCHEME OF WORK – FIRST TERM

1. WEEK 1: Measurement of Length
2. WEEK 2: Measurement of Mass
3. WEEK 3: Instruments for Measurements
4. WEEK 4: Traditional and Modern Methods of Measuring Time
5. WEEK 5: Meaning and Types of Soil
6. WEEK 6: Wind
7. WEEK 7: MID TERM BREAK
8. WEEK 8: Air-borne Diseases / Air Pollution
9. WEEK 9: Contaminated and Portable Water
10. WEEK 10: Water and Waterborne Diseases

TOPIC: Measurement of Length

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• State the units of Length
• Discuss methods of measuring Length

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Metric Units of Length

Metric units of length are based on the International System of Units (SI). The basic unit of length in the SI system is the meter (m). Here are some other commonly used metric units of length:

• Kilometer (km): 1,000 meters
• Meter (m): Basic unit
• Centimeter (cm): 100 centimeters make 1 meter
• Millimeter (mm): 1,000 millimeters make 1 meter

Methods of Measuring Length

There are several methods of measuring length. Some of the most common ones are:

1. Ruler or Tape Measure: This is the most basic method of measuring length. A ruler or tape measure is used to measure the distance between two points.

2. Vernier Caliper: This is used to measure the distance between two points with greater accuracy. It uses a sliding scale.

3. Laser Distance Meter: This is an electronic device that uses a laser beam to measure distances with high accuracy. It can be used in construction and engineering.

4. Micrometer: This is used for measuring small distances with high accuracy. It consists of a calibrated screw and is commonly used in manufacturing and engineering.

EVALUATION:

1. List 4 units Length is measured in.
2. Discuss 4 methods of measuring Length.

TOPIC: Measurement of Mass

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• State the units of Mass
• List instruments used for measuring Mass

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Metric Units of Mass

The metric system is the standard system of measurement used in most countries around the world, and it is based on the International System of Units (SI).

There are other metric units of mass that are commonly used, including:

• Kilogram (kg): The basic unit of mass
• Gram (g): 1,000g make up one kilogram
• Milligram (mg): 1,000mg make up one gram
• Tonne (t): 1,000 kg make up one tonne

Standard Instruments for Measuring Mass

There are several instruments that are used to measure mass, including:

1. Balance: A balance is a device that compares the mass of an object to a known standard mass. There are different types of balances, including beam balances, electronic balances, and spring balances. Balances are often used in laboratories to measure small quantities of substances.

2. Weighing Scale: A weighing scale is a device that measures the weight of an object. Weighing scales are often used in homes, grocery stores, and other commercial settings to weigh everyday objects.

3. Spring Scale: A spring scale is a type of weighing scale that uses a spring to measure the weight of an object. Spring scales are often used to weigh small objects, such as letters or packages.

4. Triple Beam Balance: A triple beam balance is a type of balance that has three beams with sliding weights. It is very accurate and commonly used in science laboratories.

EVALUATION:

1. List the units Mass can be measured in.
2. Mention and explain the instruments used in measuring Mass.

TOPIC: Instruments for Measurements

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• List the instruments for measuring Mass, Length, Breadth and Height

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Measuring Mass

There are several instruments that can be used to measure mass in a primary class, including:

Balance Scale: This is a classic tool for measuring mass. It consists of two pans that hang from a center pivot point. Objects can be placed on one pan and weights on the other until the two pans are balanced, indicating that the masses are equal.

Spring Scale: A spring scale measures the force exerted on a spring when an object is placed on it.

Electronic Scale: An electronic scale uses a sensor to measure the weight of an object and displays the result on a digital screen.

Measuring Length

Some instruments for measuring length include:

Ruler: A ruler is a flat, straight tool that is used to measure distances. It typically has markings in centimeters or inches, and is usually made of plastic or metal.

Tape Measure: A tape measure is a long, flexible strip that can be used to measure distances that are difficult to reach with a ruler. Tape measures typically have markings in centimeters or inches.

Calipers: Calipers are used to measure the distance between two points that are difficult to measure with a ruler or tape measure.

Measuring Breadth

Measuring breadth, or width, is often done using a ruler, which can measure both length and width. However, other tools that can be used include:

Calipers: Calipers can also be used to measure the width of an object.

Micrometer: A micrometer is a more precise tool for measuring width than a ruler or calipers. It consists of a U-shaped frame with a movable anvil and spindle.

Measuring Height

Measuring height is often done using a tape measure or ruler. However, for larger objects or objects that are difficult to reach, other tools can be used, such as:

Measuring Stick: A measuring stick is a long pole with markings that can be used to measure the height of objects that are out of reach.

Clinometer: A clinometer is a tool that measures the angle between the ground and the object being measured.

EVALUATION:

1. List and explain 2 instruments each for measuring Mass, Length, Breadth and Height.

TOPIC: Traditional and Modern Methods of Measuring Time

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• State the traditional and modern methods of measuring time

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Measuring time is very important in our daily lives. There are two main ways we measure time: the traditional way and the modern way.

Traditional Methods of Measuring Time

The traditional way of measuring time involves using things like sundials, hourglasses, and water clocks. These methods use natural elements to measure time, like the position of the sun or the flow of water. People have been using these methods for thousands of years!

Sundials: Use the shadow cast by the sun to tell time.

Hourglasses: Use the flow of sand from one container to another.

Water Clocks: Use the steady flow of water to measure time.

Modern Methods of Measuring Time

The modern way of measuring time involves using things like digital clocks and watches. These methods use electronic technology to measure time with incredible precision. We can measure time down to the tiniest fraction of a second with modern methods!

Digital Clocks: Display time using electronic numbers.

Watches: Portable time-keeping devices worn on the wrist.

Atomic Clocks: The most accurate time-keeping devices.

Comparison

Both traditional and modern methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Traditional methods don’t need electricity, but they’re not as precise as modern methods. Modern methods are very precise, but they need electricity to work.

EVALUATION:

1. Describe the traditional and modern methods of measuring Time.

TOPIC: Meaning and Types of Soil

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Define Soil
• State the types of Soil

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

What is Soil?

Soil is a mixture of tiny pieces of rocks, minerals, decayed plants and animals, and other natural materials. It’s what covers the ground and helps plants grow. You might have seen soil in your garden or on the playground. Soil is very important for our planet because it helps to grow food and supports different types of life.

Types of Soil

There are three main types of soil: sand, silt, and clay.

1. Sand: Sand is made up of large grains that are easy to see and feel. When you pick up sand, it might feel rough or gritty. This type of soil is good for plants that don’t need a lot of water, like cactus.

2. Silt: Silt is made up of smaller grains than sand, but larger than clay. Silt feels smooth and powdery, and it’s often found near riverbanks. This type of soil is good for growing vegetables like carrots and lettuce.

3. Clay: Clay is made up of very small grains that stick together tightly. When you pick up clay, it might feel sticky or gooey. This type of soil is good for growing plants that need a lot of water, like rice or cranberries.

EVALUATION:

1. What is Soil?
2. List and explain the types of Soil.

TOPIC: Wind

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Define Wind
• State the uses of Wind
• Discuss the negative effects of Wind
• Explain how Sound travels in Air

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

What is Wind?

Wind is the movement of air. You can’t see it, but you can feel it when it blows on your face. Wind can be gentle or strong, and it can come from any direction. It’s caused by differences in air pressure and temperature.

Uses of Wind

Wind is very important for our planet:

• It helps to distribute heat and moisture around the world. This means that some places are cooler than others, and some places are wetter than others.
• Wind is also used to generate electricity with wind turbines.
• Wind helps sailing ships and boats move across water.
• Wind helps in drying clothes and seeds.

Negative Effects of Wind

Sometimes, wind can have negative effects:

• It can cause damage to buildings and trees.
• It can make it difficult to do outdoor activities.
• Strong winds can cause erosion of soil.
• Hurricanes and tornadoes are dangerous types of wind.

But, if we are prepared and take precautions, we can stay safe during windy weather.

How Sound Travels in Air

When we make a sound, like clapping our hands, it creates vibrations. These vibrations travel through the air as sound waves. Our ears pick up these sound waves and we hear the sound.

Sound travels fastest through solids, like metal, and slower through liquids, like water, and even slower through gases, like air. That’s why you can hear someone talking to you if they are standing next to you, but it’s harder to hear them if they are far away.

EVALUATION:

1. Discuss 2 uses of Wind.
2. List 2 negative effects of Wind.
3. Discuss how Sound travels in Air.

WEEK 7

MID TERM BREAK

TOPIC: Air-borne Diseases / Air Pollution

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• State the examples of Air-borne Diseases
• List how to prevent Airborne diseases

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

What are Airborne Diseases?

Airborne diseases are illnesses that are caused by tiny organisms that float in the air. These organisms are called germs, and they can make you sick when you breathe them in. Some examples of airborne diseases are:

• Flu (Influenza)
• Measles
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Common cold
• Chickenpox

What is Air Pollution?

Air pollution is another thing that can make you sick when you breathe it in. Air pollution is when the air around us is full of things that are harmful to our health, like smoke, dust, and chemicals. This can happen when factories and cars release pollutants into the air.

Effects on Health

Both airborne diseases and air pollution can affect your health in many ways. They can cause you to cough, sneeze, and have trouble breathing. They can also make you more likely to get sick from other illnesses.

How to Prevent Airborne Diseases

These are things you can do to protect yourself:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water to get rid of germs.
2. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
3. Stay away from people who are sick.
4. Wear a mask when you are around people who are sick.
5. Try to avoid going outside when the air quality is bad.
6. If you have to go outside, wear a mask to protect your lungs.

EVALUATION:

1. List 4 ways to prevent Airborne diseases.

TOPIC: Contaminated and Portable Water

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Define Contaminated Water
• Define Portable Water

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Water is an essential part of our lives. We need it to drink, cook, clean, and stay healthy. But not all water is the same. Some water is safe to drink, and some can make us sick. Let’s talk about two kinds of water: contaminated water and portable water.

Contaminated Water

Contaminated water is water that has harmful things in it. These harmful things are called contaminants. Contaminants can be things like germs, bacteria, and viruses. They can also be things like chemicals, pollution, and waste. Contaminated water can make us sick if we drink it or use it to clean ourselves or our things.

How Water Gets Contaminated

There are many ways water can become contaminated:

• Sometimes, factories or farms can dump chemicals or waste into rivers and lakes. This can make the water dirty and dangerous.
• Germs and bacteria can also get into the water from animal waste or sewage.
• Improper disposal of garbage near water sources.
• Oil spills and industrial waste.

This is why it’s important to be careful where we get our water from.

Portable Water (Potable Water)

Portable water (also called potable water) is water that is safe to drink. It doesn’t have any harmful things in it that can make us sick. Portable water is also called clean water or drinking water. Portable water comes from sources like rivers, lakes, and underground wells. But before we can drink it, it needs to be treated and cleaned.

How to Get Portable Water

There are many ways to get portable water:

• Some people get their portable water from a tap in their home. This water comes from a treatment plant that cleans the water before it gets to our homes.
• Some people get their portable water from a well in their backyard. This water also needs to be tested and treated before we can drink it.
• Boiling water kills germs and makes it safe to drink.
• Using water filters and purification tablets.

EVALUATION:

1. Define Contaminated Water and state how Water is contaminated.
2. Define Portable Water and state how it can be gotten.

TOPIC: Water and Waterborne Diseases

CLASS: Primary 3

SUBJECT: Basic Science

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

• State the Uses of Water
• State the harmful effects of Water
• Discuss Waterborne diseases

LEARNING RESOURCES:

Audio-visual resources, Textbook, charts, posters.

CONTENT:

Water is a very important resource for all living things on our planet. It is essential for many things, such as staying hydrated, growing plants, and keeping our environment clean. However, water can also be harmful in certain circumstances.

Uses of Water

• Drinking: We need to drink water to stay hydrated and healthy.
• Cleaning: We use water to wash our hands, clothes, and dishes.
• Cooking: We use water to boil and cook food.
• Bathing: We use water to bathe and keep ourselves clean.
• Irrigation: We use water to grow crops and plants.
• Transportation: Water is used for shipping and transportation.
• Recreation: Swimming, fishing, and other water sports.

Harmful Effects of Water

• Floods: When there is too much water in an area, it can cause flooding which can damage homes and infrastructure.
• Drought: When there is not enough water, it can cause a drought which can harm crops and animals.
• Pollution: When water is contaminated with chemicals or waste, it can be harmful to plants, animals, and humans.
• Erosion: Too much water can wash away soil and cause erosion.

Waterborne Diseases

Waterborne diseases are illnesses caused by drinking or coming into contact with contaminated water. Some common waterborne diseases include:

1. Cholera: A bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. It spreads through contaminated water and food.

2. Dysentery: An infection that can cause severe diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stool. It is caused by bacteria or parasites in contaminated water.

3. Typhoid Fever: A bacterial infection that can cause fever, headache, and stomach pain. It spreads through contaminated water and food.

4. Hepatitis A: A viral infection that affects the liver and causes fatigue, nausea, and jaundice.

Prevention of Waterborne Diseases

• Always drink clean, treated water
• Boil water before drinking if you’re unsure of its safety
• Wash hands with soap and clean water before eating
• Keep water sources clean and protected
• Proper disposal of waste away from water sources

EVALUATION:

1. State the uses of Water.
2. List 3 harmful effects of Water.
3. Mention 2 Waterborne diseases.

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