Soil Investigation

WHAT IS SOIL?

Soil is made up of four main components:

Air

Water

Organic matter
(like decaying plant parts or insects)

Minerals
(like rocks)

Background:

Whether you are new to gardening or are an experienced gardener looking for a deeper connection, investigating soil is a great learning opportunity for all ages! In this activity, you will explore the wonders of soil and learn its components by using your senses.

Soil Safety:

  • Soil in around your home can contain pieces of glass, sharp objects, or contaminants. Unless you are familiar with the safety of soil in your backyard/neighborhood, we recommend using bagged soil or potting mix for this activity.

  • Dry soil can blow into eyes/mouths/noses easily when picked up or dropped! 

  • Keep soil at least a few inches from your face at all times. 

  • Make sure to wear eye coverings of some kind if you’re working outside on a windy day.

Materials:

  • Soil*

  • A large bag, bowl, or bin if you are collecting soil and bringing it inside

  • A shovel or trowel to break up soil, if compacted or dry

  • Eye goggles/glasses/covering if you’re working outside on a windy day

  • Soil Investigation (PK-K or 1-8) printables (No printer? Just copy down the prompts in your child’s journal or a notebook!)

  • Something solid to write on like a clipboard, book, notepad, or sturdy cardboard

  • Pencil or coloring tools (or, pointing works great for preschoolers!) 

Activity:

Use the activity worksheet (PK-K or 1-8) to guide your investigation. Feel free to discuss observations out loud, or jot them down in a journal or piece of paper.

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*Remember that plants need nutrients to grow! While you may have access to soil in your environment, it may not be best for growing.

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Soil Podcasts & Journaling

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3 Unexpected Ways to Start Seeds: Citrus Peels, Cotton Balls, and Tea Bags!