Concepts Soil contains particles of different sizes. Soil may contain animals, plants, and their remains. Over time, dead plants become part of soil. Sand, clay, and humus are three of the basic components in soil. Every soil component has unique properties that can be identified using simple tests.
Different soils absorb water at different rates.
Many factors, including soil, affect plant and root growth. Skills Performing simple tests to describe and identify soil components. Observing, recording, and organizing test results. Interpreting test results to draw conclusions about soil composition. Reflecting on test results to predict how plants will grow in different soils.