Square Foot Science: Soil Shake & Search

Finished off our Square Foot Science week with Soil Labs.

The first half of the lab involved collecting soil specimen for detailed examination. Each child took a small sample from inside their square foot and transferred it to a cedar shim. From there, they could sift through and find roots, insects, moss, fungus, seeds, bark and plant life. We threw in a neighbouring mushroom for good measure!

 They had time to take a closer look with magnifying glasses and jewelers loupes; this allowed them to see clearly, surface area and colour before sketching their observations.

 The second half of the lab involved taking their sample scoop (sifted-through soil) placing it in a clear jar and topping it up with water.

Once it was well shaken and settled, the layers started to become apparent.

Then they drew and labeled the layers: humus, water, silt/clay, sand and gravel.