Format
1. Investigate the composition and characteristics of (different) soils with simple observations and feel tests to be conducted with presenter. Review results of Settling Soil activity.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the composition of soils, the types of soils. Discover how to determine the type of soil you have by various "feel" tests... get ready to get messy!
3. Discover the relationship between soils and other living things within the soil ecosystem and the interactions between the soil and living things.
4. Assess the impact of soils on society and the environment, and of society and the environment on soils (optional and after discussion with teacher)
Objectives
Key Concepts/Ideas to be discovered:
• Soil is made up of living and non-living things.
• The composition, characteristics, and condition of soil determine its capacity to sustain life.
• Soil is an essential source of life and nutrients for many living things.
• Living things, including humans, interact with soils and can cause positive or negative changes.
Standards Alignment
National Standards
ESS2A 3-5 -- Earth materials and systems
ESS2C 3-5 -- The roles of water in Earth's surface processes
State Standards
Ontario
Grade 3: Science: Soils in the Environment
• Soil is made up of living and non-living things. (Overall expectations 1, 2, and 3)
• The composition, characteristics, and condition of soil determine its capacity to sustain life. (Overall expectations 1, 2, and 3)
• Soil is an essential source of life and nutrients for many living things. (Overall expectation 3)
• Living things, including humans, interact with soils and can cause positive or negative changes. (Overall expectation 1)