The Dirt on Dirt

Submitted by Anonymous on Fri, 01/27/2012 - 09:47

Source Institution

  • The Exploratorium
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Description

In this fun gardening activity, learners discover their soil type. There are three basic soil types: sand, silt, and clay. Using only a jar, water and a bit of water softener, learners will sort their soil into its parts. The activity includes a "What's going on" section as well as information about what makes a soil ideal for gardening.

Quick Guide

  • Preparation Time: Under 5 minutes
  • Learning Time: 4 to 24 hours
  • Estimated materials cost: 1 cent - $1 per student
  • Age Range: Ages 6 - 14
  • Resource Type: Activity
  • Language: English

Materials List (per student)

  • A clear quart-size jar (such as a mayonnaise jar)
  • One teaspoon water softener (such as Calgon)
  • A stopwatch (or an ordinary watch)
  • A marker or grease pencil
Subjects

Informal Category

  • Gardening

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Structure
      • Rocks and Minerals
Audience

To use this activity learners need to

  • see

Learning styles supported

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other

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Exploratorium

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Exploratorium,

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