Through a PowerPoint presentation and the embedded animation and video, earth science enthusiasts find out about the moisture in the soil beneath our feet. In the animation, follow a water molecule on its path through the water cycle. As...

This presentation on soil shows how it is formed, what the different types of soil are, how soil is eroded, and how soil can be conserved. Fantastic photos and excellent graphics and text are found in each of the slides. The last slide...

NASA has crafted an imaginative and memorable series of lessons, "NASA and Jamestown Education Module." This lesson is one of the five components. In it, middle schoolers connect history and science by comparing the settlement of...

Students compare the organic matter found in soil. In this soil lesson, students compare a commercial garden mix soil to their local soil and determine which has more organic material.

Students investigate the use of soil, an important natural resource in artwork. They experiment by crushing soil particles and adding the different color samples to artist acrylic to create true "earth colors". Using this paint, they...

The different types of soil are the focus of this science lesson. Students gather clues about soil samples by viewing a PowerPoint presentation and using an Intel microscope. Learners view three different types of soil in bags, and make...

Seven superb slides sharpen science students' scoop on soil. In viewing them and reading the accompanying captions, your class will uncover the importance, different types, horizons, and protection of soil. They can then assess their new...

Rock the classroom with this hip video clip about dirt and rocks! Contents and the process of producing soil and sand are explained in the forest and on the beach. Time, pressure, and high temperatures are introduced as the requirements...

Study the properties of soil and water absorption with a science activity. Based on a paragraph with background knowledge on sandy soil, silt, and clay soil, third graders choose which illustration represents a bottle full of sandy soil....

Students explore natural resources of our planet. In this natural resources activity, students use an apple to explore the land, water, and climate. Students also use the apples to explore the part of our planet that can grow food and...

Fourth graders experiment with compost. For this Science lesson, 4th graders begin a worm compost as well as an outdoor compost. Students discuss decomposition.

Students explore decomposition and soil health by creating their own garden.  In this agriculture lesson, students build a "lasagna garden" with organic matter found in the area and plant perennials native to their region.  Students are...

Your geology class practices taking core samples of a potato to examine the stratigraphy. This is a terrific modeling lesson plan that helps youngsters visualize strata that cannot be seen from the surface of the ground. The directions...

Young scientists study three different types of soil, and discover their levels of permeability. The types of soil tested are loam, clay, and sand. After placing a coffee filter in a plastic trap on top of a jar, students pour water into...

Students identify the four basic natural resources. They distinguish bettween renewable and non-renewable resources. Pupils recognize that all natural resources are needed by living plants and animals. Students list consequences for...

Students apply knowledge of soil, environmental impacts, economics, multiple human demands, and use given data for a proposed scenario in making land use decisions. They debate land use issues and/or scenarios and discuss a case study.

What a great way to give a gift that keeps on giving! These homemade plantable cards are not only beautiful, but can be planted into the ground to sprout in the right season. Incorporate this project in a science unit, or for a Mother's...

Learners investigate how earthworms mix and till the soil. Each student brings in a 1 gallon plastic milk jug. Holes are poked into the jug, bedding mixture is added, some earthworms are added, and some food for the worms. Additionally,...

If you are looking for how to introduce elementary environmentalists to the process of composting, here is a comprehensive outline for making it happen. The plan is to set this up at the beginning of a school year in order to observe the...

Looking at an image of plant systems with their roots in the ground, learners determine which would be the most or least difficult to pull. They write short sentences describing which plant they chose and why. Intended for 3rd or 4th...

Students explore the layers of soil. In this soil lesson, students investigate the different layers of soil. Students use cookies, crackers, and pudding to create an edible model of the soil layers.

Learners create their own compost.  In this soil lesson, students fill a bag with waste and soil, in order to create a mini compost bin. Learners observe the baggies over a 6 week period, they record their findings and collect data on...

Drawings of four groups of soil particles of varying sizes are displayed across the page for soil scientists to examine. As they complete the worksheet, place a set of similar soils at each table for hands-on experience. In this way,...

Students examine the basics about soil.  In this soil lesson students describe the physical properties of soil and explain what soil profile is.