Optional Laboratory: Soil Particle Size and Texture

Teach your class the descriptive characteristics of soil. Provide information about particle size and a flow chart for assessing texture. Soil scientists then analyze samples and hypothesize which would be the best type for a rain...

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,...

Soil scientists gain experience with an infiltrometer can to determine the infiltration rates at different locations on campus. If you are using the entire unit, the class has already analyzed water flow and soil types, so they should...

In this soil analysis worksheet, young scholars are given instructions for analyzing a soil sample. Students fill in 23 blanks with data from their sample. Young scholars use the data and charts given to answer 10 questions about soil.

Seventh graders make a KWL chart about soil erosion. In this earth science lesson, 7th graders discuss erosion's harmful environmental effect. They investigate how vegetation help prevent erosion.

In this soil worksheet, students are given a "Textural Triangle" showing the percent of clay, sand and silt in soil as well as measurements of the particles found in soil.

Students 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...

Young scholars 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,...

Young scholars explore the porosity of soil. In this soil lesson, students conduct an experiment which shows the porosity of different types of soil. They use sand, silt, and clay to see how soil particles are more or less aerated and...

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.