Soil

What students need to know about soil:

K, 1st, 2nd 
Observe and describe properties of soil such as color and texture.  Give examples of how we use soil.  Plants need soil to grow.

3rd, 4th
Identify and describe the importance of earth materials including soil and classify them as renewable, nonrenewable, or inexhaustible resources. Identify and record properties of soils such as color and texture, capacity to retain water, and ability to support the growth of plants

Lab Activities
Edible Model of Soil Layers
Size of Particles in Soil to be followed by Soil Sizes
Sponge model of water retention of soil
Soil Filters Ground Water - Also use to show how some soils hold (retain) water better than others.

Online Facts and Readings
Minerals in Soil - Click to see how minerals are in each layer of rock and soil.
Types of Earth's Soils - Click and read about each one.
Facts about Soil
Sammy Soil - As you read the book to the class, ask them to be on the lookout for examples of erosion and how trees are helpful to soil.
Soil Forming Factors
El suelo - SPANISH!!!
Tipos de suelo - SPANISH!!!

Interactive Sites
Soil Safari - Dig inside the soil and explore what you find.