Description
Do you need to teach your students about soil properties and types? In this unit, students will learn about loam, silt, sand, and clay soil types. They will examine and test soil samples and learn about the properties of soil, including water retention in different soil types and pH levels.
What is included in this soil unit?
•Suggested Schedule
•Slide Show on Properties of Matter
•Slide Show Notes
•Two Labs
•Lab Pages
•Thinking Questions
•Discussion Questions
•Teacher Notes
•Quiz
•Answer Keys
Science Concepts:
- Soil types of different properties
- Some types of soil are better for agriculture than others
- Soils can be improved
- Soils consist of rock pieces and organic material
- There are four main types of soil: Sand and Loam. Silt and Clay
Only a few materials are needed:
•Four samples of soil
•Spray water bottle
•Hand lenses
•Optional pH soil kit
Aligns with Ohio Science
6.ESS.4 Soil is unconsolidated material that contains nutrient matter and weathered rock.
6.ESS.5 Rocks, mineral and soils have common and practical uses.
TEKS Sci.4.7.a examine properties of soils, including color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants.
VA Sol 3.6.a and bThe student will investigate and understand that soil is important in ecosystems. Key ideas include
a) soil, with its different components, is important to organisms; and
b) soil provides support and nutrients necessary for plant growth.
If you like this unit on the properties of soil, you might also like my unit on the Properties of Minerals!
