Sixth Grade Soils
Our sixth grade soils material meets Standards 6.E.2, 6.E.2.3, and 6.E.2.4.
6.E.2--Understand the structure of the earth and how interactions of constructive and destructive forces have resulted in changes in the surface of the Earth over time and the effects of the lithosphere on humans.
6.E.2.3--Explain how the formation of soil is related to the parent rock type and the environment in which it develops.
6.E.2.4--Conclude that the good health of humans requires: monitoring the lithosphere, maintaining soil quality and stewardship.
Classroom lessons include a soil discussion, hands-on activities, and model demonstrations. Activities can include posters, hands-on investigation of various types of soil, Enviroscape® model demonstration of soil conservation and farming practices, and using soil test kits to test soils for properties such as pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Some options include:
Soil Exploration: Students dissect soil to find out if they can identify the various components.
Soil Particle Sizes: Using visual representations, students understand the size comparison between sand, silt, and clay.
Soil Components: Learn the 4 components that make soil soil!
Enviroscape® Model: The popular 3D Enviroscape® education model provides a hands-on, interactive demonstration of the sources and effects of water pollution and soil movement – and allows you to demonstrate ways to prevent it. Easily demonstrate how storm water runoff carries pollutants and sediment through the watershed to a pond, lake, river, bay, or ocean – and the best management practices to prevent this type of pollution from occurring.
Composting and Vermiculture: Does you school compost or want to start? We have a whole selection of activities and resources, just let us know your level of interest!
Soil Test Kits: Using soil test kits, students can test the pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels in the soil. This is a great option for classes wanting to do a school garden or tree planting, or just to learn more about using test kits!
Educational Poster Contest: Sixth grade students are able to participate in our poster contest and essay contest on a various theme each year, complete with prizes! This is a great add-on for classwork or homework!
