Soil Composition and Management Teacher Resources

Students are introduces to soil profile classification. They remember that classification of soils is an important aspect of studying soils as it aids in predicting how soils react to weathering, transport nutrients or pollution. ...

From types of rocks to types of weathering, learners gain knowledge on minerals, composition of soil, and the effects of weathering on Earth.

Young scientists conduct a series of experiments to determine what type of soils produce the best results in roof-top gardens.

Organic or mineral? How does the matter matter? Second graders use their knowledge of the rock cycle to label the different components in garden soil.

Fourth graders research soil layers and create a soil profile in a jar.  For this soil profile lesson, 4th graders working in groups, research a given layer of soil, make a 3-5 minute presentation to the class, and complete a...

Fourth graders study the components of soil. They observe the basic components of soil and relate the components to plant growth. They record color, texture, and kinds of materials on their profile log (light color, denser, grittier -...

Students investigate how soil composition affects plant growth. In small groups, they plant various seeds in different soil mixtures, record plant and seed growth, and analyze the results.

Seventy thousand different types of soil exist in the United States alone. Young scientists learn about the importance of soil to the food supply. They test soil for a variety of factors and determine the best place to set up a community...

Understanding soil composition requires an understanding of chemical bonding. An informative video lesson shows learners how the atoms and molecules in the soil form ions that attract and repel other atoms and molecules. The...

Students identify the location of their school from a 1926 digitized Soil Sample map. Using remaining landforms, they determine the type of soil identified during that time, and compare it to the soil currently found near the school.

Students perform soil tests for pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, composition and water percolation rate and assess the conditions in the schoolyard.

Students are introduced to the differences that exist in soil properties with depth. They are introduced to the factors that influence a soil's development (soil forming factors). Pupils are introduced to the impact of soil of soil...

Dirt or soil? What's the difference? Actually, dirt is soil as explained by the video's high-energy speaker who goes on to emphasize its importance. She describes the composition of soil as minerals, water, air,...

A short video teaches viewers about the Olsen Test, a soil test specific for plants grown in arid regions. The soil in arid regions has a higher pH and plants require special treatment to thrive. The video provides information about the...

Ninth graders recognize differences in soil quality from one area to another. They describe the importance of organic matter in soil health and suggest ideas that help provide adequate food supplies for the world. The interview a person...

In this bellwork learning exercise, learners answer questions about chemical and mechanical weathering, particle size, and the soil profile at the start of class.

Students work together to discover the relationship between water holding and drainage characteristics of soils. They record their observations and discuss the results. They examine particle size and pore sizes as well.

Students study the different soil types and describe the different soils in various environments.  For this soil lesson students walk to a reserve and discuss what they saw. 

Eighth graders identify the composition of a soil sample. In this archaeology lesson, 8th graders describe the different soil layers formed in their activity. They explain how this pattern help archaeologists evaluate soil types.

Seventh graders investigate how soil is formed. They analyze types of soil samples, examine soil using a magnifying glass or microscope, complete a chart, conduct a soil and plant experiment, and construct a soil profile.

Students conduct background research on the decomposition process, soil composition, and the life cycle using the resources provided for Internet searches. They work in collaborative groups to research topics as a particular plant, soil...

In this soil science worksheet, students read about layers of soil and the order they are arranged. Students analyze a labeled diagram of a soil profile. Students use the provided soil profile cards and one inch carpet tape to measure...

It takes a strong foundation to build a house and a stronger one for a bridge. This resource presents the effects of geology and soil on bridge foundations. Working in groups, the class investigates the interaction of shallow and deep...

Poor soil actually grows the most diverse plants. Although this sounds like a contradictory statement, the video lesson explains how and why this is true. Learners discover how rich soils typically cater to the stronger, faster-growing...