Lesson Plan

Soil Exploration - Middle School (Tennessee)

Grade Level:
Sixth Grade-Eighth Grade
Setting:
in the park
Keywords:
biological inventory, long-term monitoring, soil, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, all taxa biodiversity inventory, terrestrial invertebrates

Overview

Soils are the literal foundation of life in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As a habitat, an influence on the climate of micro-niches, a sponge for rainfall, a surface for plant and tree growth, soils are a valuable resource. Students are often unaware of the biotic and abiotic factors of soils. This field experience allows classes to explore the elements of a deciduous forest with emphasis on the world below their feet.

Objective(s)

1) Students will explore the soil in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to learn about the biotic and abiotic factors in the environment.
2) To understand what the term "Stewardship" means and how students can become a steward in their school and their community.

Last updated: April 14, 2015