Soil Layers Teacher Resources

Learners build a model of the soil layers by filling a clear mason jar with six different colors of sand. The students work together to identify which color stands for which layer. They record the layers of their jar in a journal.

Students explore the soil layers in their local community. In this earth science lesson, students classify soil samples according to their texture. They explain how to estimate the depth of the active layer with measuring it.

Fourth graders explore the environment by experimenting with candy. In this soil layer lesson, 4th graders examine and describe the three layers of soil and factors that can degrade their quality. Students utilize cocoa puffs,...

Simulate soil sample assemblages. Individuals create soil layers in a cup. They then use straws to collect core samples from these layers. What information can they glean from the core samples, I wonder?

Test your class on earth science with this extensive resource. This test, created by The University of the State of New York Regents, is made up of 50 multiple choice questions and 32 short answer questions that cover the branches of...

In this soil learning exercise, students will use a diagram of a soil profile showing different soil layers to complete 7 short answer questions.

Fourth graders research soil layers and create a soil profile in a jar.  In 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 worksheet. ...

In this soil formation worksheet, students will review examples of chemical weathering and biological weathering. Students will also review the different soil layers and how they are created. This worksheet has 6 matching, 5 multiple...

"God made dirt, so dirt don't hurt!" In fact, dirt is soil, which is an amazingly dynamic material that we cannot live without! Dig into the depths of soil development, topography, and layers with this PowerPoint. The photos are fuzzy,...

Students discuss what is found in soil. In this science lesson, students observe the soil outside and write down information in regards to location, vegetation, and topography. Students experiment with the soil and its many properties...

A set of 27 slides systematically shows how weathering, erosion, and deposition contribute to soil formation. Both chemical and mechanical weathering are described, as are resulting soil layers and properties. There is no longer any need...

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...

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

Students study and classify soil. In this soil science lesson, students classify soil by texture and size and study soil horizons. Students label the soil types with their specific soil horizon and learn about permafrost. Students...

In this rocks and soils worksheet, students will complete a Venn diagram comparing the specific characteristics of rocks and soils.

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...

Through a presentation, class members explore the two different types of weathering, mechanical and chemical, see how these forces change the earth, and delve into how soil forms because of weathering.

Varve: a deposit of cyclical sediments that help scientists determine historical climates. Individuals analyze the topography of a region and then study varve datasets from the same area. Using this information, they determine the...

The average student scores less than three points, out of five, on the AP Environmental Science test. Most do well on the multiple choice and struggle with the free-response section. Encourage extra free-response practice with actual...

Ninth graders identify the different layers of soil. In this earth science lesson, 9th graders explain how limestone layers are formed. They identify the different parts of the coral colony.

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....

Students discover how palaeontologists conduct a dig for fossils and how they interpret the age of the fossils. In small groups, they prepare a "dig site" consisting of bones, rocks and soil layered in a cardboard box. They switch boxes...

For this soil research worksheet, students read the questions about soil and complete research over soil formation, soil layers, and soil composition.