Embedded Files
At Carver Elementary, the Soil Lab is deeply integrated with the GLOBE Program’s pedosphere protocols, providing students with authentic, hands-on experiences in earth science. Using GLOBE’s standardized methods for soil sampling, analysis, and data collection, students investigate soil texture, color, moisture, pH, and horizon identification across different habitats on campus. This alignment with GLOBE pedosphere protocols ensures that student investigations mirror professional scientific research, fostering rigor and credibility in their work. By participating in these global science practices, Carver students not only develop a strong foundation in soil science but also contribute meaningful data to the worldwide GLOBE community, connecting their local observations to broader environmental research and stewardship efforts. This approach reinforces critical inquiry skills, data literacy, and a sense of place-based stewardship rooted in real scientific protocols.
Bulk Density - Students will measure the mass of a dry soil sample of known total volume including pore space to determine the density of the whole sample.
Soil Fertility - Students will use a GLOBE Soil Fertility Kit to prepare samples and determine whether nitrate, phosphate, and potassium are absent from a soil sample or present in low, medium or high concentrations.
Soil Infiltration - Students will use a dual ring infiltrometer that they can construct from large food container cans to measure the rate at which water soaks into the soil during a roughly 45-minute period.
Soil Moisture (Gravimetric): Students will measure soil water content by comparing the wet and dry masses of samples.
Soil pH - Students will prepare a one-to-one mixture of dry soil and distilled water and then measure the pH of the liquid left after most of the soil has settled to the bottom of the mixture.
Soil Temperature - Students will measure near-surface soil temperature frequently near local solar noon and seasonally throughout two diurnal cycles.
Page updated
Report abuse