Title: Explain soil composition and health.
Course: Agriscience & Technology (18001-18A) > Section: Exploring Natural Resources

Explanation should include

- soil type
- soil properties
  - biological
  - chemical
  - mechanical
  - physical
- soil conservation and management practices
  - cover crops
  - tillage practices
  - BMPs.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is soil important to the environment, to the economy, and to life?
- What are different soil types and their uses?
- What are the five soil formation factors?
- How does the age of a soil influence its fertility? Why?
- How does pH affect nutrient availability? Why?
- What is soil texture, and how does it affect fertility?
- What are some careers related to soil management?
- Why are soil management practices important in managing the health of the soil?
- How can cover crops be used to improve soil health?
- How does soil biology affect soil health and function?
- What are some management practices that adversely affect soil biology?

Teacher Resources:

- Soil Science Society of America
- Dig It! The Secrets of Soil, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
- Virginia’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation