Presents a long-term investigation designed to provide practice for students in thinking in a scientific manner about a real problem--the impact that waste products may have on soil. Focuses on student questions that have some connection to the local community. (JRH)

Two easy student activities that demonstrate physical weathering by expansion are described. The first demonstrates ice wedging and the second root wedging. A list of the needed materials, procedure, and observations are included. (KR)

Advocates wildflower collecting as a class project, citing instances of interest in studies of soil composition, growing wildflowers, and increased student motivation toward the subject of botany as basis for the activity. (CP)

Activities for use in a field trip to an ancient mud flow are provided. Photographs illustrate the techniques described. (CP)

Describes a technique for comparing the number of bacteria in various soil samples. The equipment and materials are readily available, and the technique is suitable for high school students. (JR)

Consumer chemistry projects using houseplant fertilizers are described. Background information on fertilizer elements and different brands are discussed. The procedures for the activities (reading fertilizer labels, calculating the cost of various fertilizers, and calculating the amount of nitrogen in solution) are included. (KR)

Describes a lab investigation designed to introduce students to soil compaction and help them to learn to design and adapt procedures that scientists use when they plan and conduct controlled investigations. Provided are objectives, a list of materials, procedures, and a sample student handout. (CW)

Describes an inexpensive technique for providing student opportunities to observe and identify the variety of small animals living in the first few inches below the surface of the soil. A classification key to some small soil animals is also presented. (HM)

Presents activities to be used by a class of fifth graders on a field trip to a stream. Photographs illustrate the techniques and the setting described. (HM)