The lessons in this unit provide students with a basic understanding of the fundamentals of soils and soil science through the integration of disciplinary core ideas, science and engineering practices, and crosscutting concepts in the lessons, investigations, and activities. It is designed for grades 6-8 and may be adapted as needed for other grade levels. Focus areas are:

  • Overview of the Fundamentals
  • Introduction to ClORPT - soil formation
  • Characteristics of Soil - texture, structure, color, profiles
  • Soil Degradation and Environmental Sustainability
  • Soil is Inter-Disciplinary

Download and print the complete Soils Overview Unit as a pdf (all URLs are linked in the document).

Individual links are:

Part 1: Soils Sustain Life Overview/Introduction

Part 2: Soil Formation - Introduction to ClORPT

Part 3: Characteristics of Soil

Part 4: Soil Degradation & Environmental Sustainability

Part 5: Soil is Inter-disciplinary; Soil Science is an Applied Science
Teacher Notes: The content for this part of the unit reminds students how important soils are to so many aspects of our lives. The year 2015 was the International Year of Soils, and the year-long celebration included monthly themes. With each of these themes there is a video and a set of classroom activities selected to support the content of the videos. Use these links to explore the many applications of soils in our lives.

 

book

Know Soil, Know Life

For high school and introductory college students, gain a foundation about the world of soils with our book - Know Soil, Know Life.

Visit the Society Store to learn more and purchase your copy today