Mystery Soils

Directions: As soil scientists it is important that you closely examine each unknown sample of soil. Texture and color are two important clues that will help you determine what the mystery soils are, but make sure to include other observations such as smell, differences in dry and damp characteristics and anything else you might notice.

Use these texture words to help you describe your mystery soils

Gritty Smooth Sticky Crumbly Slick

Clumpy Grainy Soft Rough Rocky

Questions:

1. Which soil would you find at the beach?

1. Which soil would you use to make a sculpture out of?

1. Which soil would be good for growing plants?