Soil - Diggin' Up the Facts about Dirt

• Introduction
• Learners
• Standards
• Process
• Resources


• Student Page

by Karen Barfuss, Beehive Elementary

This WebQuest is designed for students to learn about and classify the four types of soil (sand, silt, clay and loam) based on their physical characteristics. The students will discover the importance and composition of soil. Students will also complete a scientific investigation to determine the type of soil found in their schoolyard. They will predict if their schoolyard will be a good place for a garden to grow and explain why or why not.

Teacher Introduction

How can I get my students excited about dirt?  This WebQuest is designed to help students have a hands on approach to learning more about soil.  This WebQuest is based on the the 4th grade Utah State Earth Science Standards.  They will be able to classify clay, loam, sand, and silt based on their physical characteristics. They will also be able to conduct a simple scientific investigation. It will take about a week for students to complete this adventure.  The only materials needed are computers, a little dirt, a little water, and a little child creativity. *** Get ready to "Dig" in!!