Noah's class concluded their unit on soil by making "dirt". Soil forms from the breakdown of rocks over time. In addition, soil contains air, water and humus, the decayed remains of dead plants and animals. The class was asked to provide a soil sample from their backyard and determine the inorganic and organic components of the soil. Noah was not impressed when his organic component was a spider! The class also learned that earthworms and insects dig tunnels in the soil allowing air and water to reach plant roots secured in the soil. It was a fascinating unit and everyone learned a lot. The highlight was making dirt. Before adding any of the ingredients the class had to identify each part of the soil.
Each child was given 2 oreos in a ziploc bag and asked to smash the oreos with a book representing the rocks deteriorating over time to form soil. Pudding, butter, powdered sugar and cream cheese were also added to the "soil". Mrs. Kay indicated that this is the "yummy portion and has no real significance". Next the children were given raisins (rocks), gummy worms (earth worms) and sprinkles (insects). Before the class could enjoy their "dirt" they took a straw and placed it straight into their layered "dirt. Mrs. Kay asked them to lick the edges and then look at the straw and notice the different layers. It was a wonderful and yummy way to conclude their unit and I'm so happy that I was able to be a part of the fun!
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