Soil has rock bits, water, air and old plant bits.
Soil holds roots and gives plants water and food.
Sand lets water through fast. Clay holds water.
Worms breathe through damp skin and live in damp soil.
Worm tunnels and casts make soil better for plants.
◇ FAMILY SOIL SORT
Put on gloves together. A grown-up puts a scoop of soil on a tray. Use craft sticks to gently spread the soil. Look with a magnifier. Make piles: rock bits, plant bits and other things. Found a worm? Watch it, then put it back outside.
Safety first
Wear gloves the whole time. A grown-up gets the soil and handles any tools. Keep soil away from your face and mouth. Wash your hands well when you finish.
For a grown-up
Ask: which pile is the biggest? Ask: what bits came from plants? Praise slow, careful looking.
SOIL SORT CHECK
Read the question.
Tap your answer.
A tiny pebble goes in which pile?
A bit of old leaf goes in which pile?
What do you do when you finish?
Draw your soil piles.
You are a true soil explorer!
Next week, you will see plants change their place.