Soil slice in a quarry
Diverse Soil
Grades 6-8
Maryland is home to a great deal of fertile soil throughout the state. However, depending on what region of Maryland you are in, you will find that there is a variety of different types of soil. Soil types have both advantages and disadvantages for farmers. In this lesson, you will learn why there is a variety of different types of soil across Maryland and how understanding soil processes can help farmers and agriculture.
Teacher's Guide and Related Standards
Students will be able to explain how soil properties can be used to inform farmers about how to properly use it for agricultural purposes.
- What types of soil are present across different regions in Maryland?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of soil?
- How can farmers use soil properties to make agricultural decisions?
Maryland Farm & Harvest Clip
- What do soil pits give scientists?
- All soil contains a combination of what three materials?
- What makes the Glenleg and Hagerstown soil productive?
- What are the challenges farmers face with a variety of soil?
Vocabulary
Supplemental Enrichment Activities
and Designing Solutions
“Can Soil Make or Break Our Food Future?”
Students will watch a video that addresses soil's crucial role in our food system. Students will uncover the diversity of soil types, the microorganisms vital for their health, and their contributions to processes like nutrient cycling and climate regulation. Students should then complete a Journal Write in which they explain the impacts of soil degradation on food security and ways to promote healthy soil conditions.
“Soil for Schools”
Students will explore this online interactive resource to view different soils around the world, conduct experiments related to soil, and learn other interesting facts regarding soil.
“Soil Erosion”
Students will read an informational article about the causes and effects of soil erosion, why it’s a problem for farmers, and how to prevent it. Students should then develop a public service announcement (PSA) presentation to share, educating the public on strategies to prevent soil erosion.
Career Connections
