Soil Lesson Plans

Students examine the importance of soil as a world resources. In this soil resources activity, students participate in a demonstration that uses an apple to represent the portions of the world. They watch as the teacher divides the apple until there is 3% left which represents the area left to grow food. They carry out a discussion of the necessity to maintain open spaces.

Learners model the soils layers using Oreo's. In this lesson students use their favorite food items to create a model of soil layers. A discovery lesson from a youth camp is adapted for classroom modeling and discussion of soil ecology.  Teachers can customize to add depth to meet their needs.

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 create a piece of art.

Students collect samples of different kinds of soil to match to the soil terms in Filet of Soil: dirt, mud, dust, soot, etc. They Start a displayable glossary for the project on index cards or large sheets of paper. Post them on a wall. The definitions in Filet of Soil can be used to start.

This instructional activity is an investigation of soil properties, particularly texture, color and space for air and water. Student inspect soil samples found in their locale, perform several tests to determine different properties, and involves a field-site investigation of soil detailed in individual science journals.

Students name three general kinds of soil: sand, silt and clay. They explain how percolation rates differ with the soil type. Students name two characteristics of wetland soils. They test soils to demonstrate how soil texture affects percolation rates and will'become' soil particles to experience soil types in an imaginary flower pot.

Students are introduced to the concept of acids and bases and arouse curiosity about acids and bases in daily life. They are introduced to the measurement of soil pH. Pupils are introduced to the effect of soil pH on nutrient cycling and loss. They are also introduced to the environmental impact of soil acidity.

Students show how soil varies across the landscape, they explain how soil can be used to solve mysteries. Pupils are introduced to techniques that would be used to distinguish soils from different places.

Young scholars are introduced to soil textures and why they are important in examining soil quality. They find out how to feel the difference between soil textures. Pupils describe which soil texture is best for gardens and growing healthy plants.

Third graders examine geography by creating a booklet. In this natural resources lesson, 3rd graders investigate the agriculture in the state of Louisiana by utilizing the web and completing a graphic organizer. Students collaborate with classmates and compile their Louisiana natural resource information into a readable booklet.