Provided by: Soil Quest |Published on: June 14, 2022
Videos Grades 6-8
Synopsis
This resource lets students interact with, investigate, brainstorm, and write about soil.
Students will observe, touch, feel, and smell the soil, perform a simple experiment, record their observations, and write what they know, need to know, and can do to help restore soil health in their area.
The instructional student videos do a great job of explaining the tasks associated with this section.
The journal is a great way for students to integrate art and writing skills into this science-based inquiry activity.
Additional Prerequisites
This is the second step of the Soil Quest.
Students will need access to some soil samples and jars with lids for the experiment.
The activities can be done inside or outside during any time of the year.
This resource includes links to additional resources (by clicking on the book icon), two student guide videos to explain the activities, and text for students to read.
Differentiation
Elementary students could use this soil video to introduce the properties of soil and then use this resource as a stand-alone lesson.
Younger students will likely enjoy getting their hands dirty in the soil, but students of all ages may appreciate the opportunity to go outside for this activity. Try integrating art, social-emotional learning, or physical activity into this lesson to engage all types of students.
Social studies classes could relate this resource to lessons about green spaces, gardens, and human health.