Understanding the Water Cycle: Elementary & Middle School Science Guide Subject: Science | Grade: Grade 4-6 The Water Cycle (also known as the hydrological cycle) describes the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth. It is a vital system that supports life by recycling the Earth's water supply. Here is a breakdown of the four primary stages of the water cycle: Evaporation & Transpiration • Evaporation: The sun heats up liquid water in oceans, lakes, and rivers, turning it into water vapor (a gas) that rises into the atmosphere. • Transpiration: Plants also release water vapor into the air through tiny pores in their leaves. Condensation As water vapor rises, it cools down and turns back into tiny liquid water droplets. These droplets cluster together to form clouds and fog. Precipitation When the clouds become too heavy with water droplets, they release the water back to Earth in various forms depending on the temperature: • Rain (liquid water) • Snow (frozen ice crystals) • Sleet (slushy ice/rain mix) • Hail (frozen balls of ice) Collection & Runoff Once