Explore the Properties of Soil

What could be better than getting your hands dirty and learning at the same time? This soil properties activity will excite students as they observe different types of soil. Students will create a brochure to record their findings, draw models and answer reflection questions. 

To prepare for this activity, prepare different stations with four different soil types:

• Sand
• Silt
• Clay
• Loam

Students will visit each station, observe the soils, then record information about the following properties:

• Colour
• Particle size
• Texture
• Moisture

Through this activity, students will explore and record the different properties of various soil types.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

If you’re catering to a wide range of learning needs in your classroom (and we’re fairly certain that you are!), check out the tips below for differentiating this activity to accommodate students of all abilities.

🆘 Support Struggling Students

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by limiting the number of soil types to observe. This activity could also be completed with the help of a teacher in a small group. Additionally, provide access to previous assignments to help students recall the content addressed in past lessons.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

Challenge more-capable students by encouraging them to list different places where each soil type can be found. Students could share their further learnings with the rest of the class.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. 

When printing, make sure to print double-sided and select ‘Flip on short edge.’ Fold along the solid lines to create the soil properties brochure.

This resource was created by Melissa McLaren, a Teach Starter collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

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Types of Soil – Teaching Presentation

Practise identifying different types of soil with this 18-slide teaching presentation.

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Label a Soil Profile – Worksheet

Identify and label different layers with this soil profile worksheet.

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Soil Creation – Worksheet

Integrate reading and science with this 7-question comprehension worksheet about soil.