Each group will measure one square foot of ground. Suggest that they use a small trowel to take samples of soil. Ask the students to examine carefully all of the soil in this area to a depth of three inches and record what they find. In class, after discussing what each group found, ask students to rewrite their descriptions of soil and compare these with their first descriptions. Discuss the role each component of the soil plays in plant growth.
Evaluation Check the paragraphs for understanding.
Informally assess each group's progress as they are examining soil. Ask the students to pick up some soil form their sample and work it with their fingers. Moist-feels damp, maybe spongy. Wet-drips when you pick it up or squeeze it. Sandy-made up of grains of sand.