Investigating the Uses of Backyard Bacteria

In this lab, students learn how to select for protein-digesting bacteria from various soil samples. After isolating the colonies, students are then encouraged to investigate ways to test the effectiveness of their specimens in breaking down protein stains on clothing.

Discipline
Physical Sciences
Grade Level
9-12
Lesson Area
Soil Biology
Lesson Type
Lab Experiment
Lesson Keywords
Bacteria
Organisms
Decomposition
Protein
Soil Biology

Who Did it?

Students use forensics to hone science and lab skills in order to conclude who committed a crime.

Discipline
Physical Sciences
Grade Level
9-12
Lesson Area
Soil Forensics/Archaeology
Lesson Type
Activity
Lesson Keywords
Soil Forensics
Soil Structure
Soil color
human culture
Soil Forensics/Archaeology

CSI: Forensic Soil Analysis

Students will attempt to solve a “cold case” crime based on evidence from the suspects and the crime scene in the form of soil samples.

Discipline
Physical Sciences
Grade Level
6-8
9-12
Lesson Area
Soil Forensics/Archaeology
Lesson Type
Activity
Lesson Keywords
Forensics
Soil Structure
Soil color
Clay
Culture
Soils and Art/Culture

Soil is a Filter

Students will discover that soils physically and chemically filter impurities out of water. They will also discover the role of soil in having good drinking water.

Organization
Soil Science Society of America
Discipline
Earth and Space Sciences
Grade Level
3-5
6-8
Lesson Area
Soil Chemistry
Lesson Type
Activity
Lab Experiment
Lesson Keywords
Filter
Charge
Subscribe to PS1.B: Chemical reactions