Soil are compound mixtures found at the upper most layer of the surface of the Earth. It is mostly loose materials that are composed of rock, minerals, water, and decaying plant and animal matter. Soil has all the nutrients and raw materials needed for the growth of plant life. Plants are vital for the continuation of life on Earth; hence soil is an essential material for life as well it provides shelter for many different animals as dig they into it and use it for their needs. This material also has a natural capacity to filter and clean water which is a crucial compound for life.

Soil is composed of five distinctive layers. The topmost layer is composed of the remains of leaves and twigs. This organic material provides plenty of nutrients for plants. Just below that layer is topsoil which is where a variety of minerals are located. Subsoil is found beneath topsoil which is mostly clay and minerals. Large rocks are found beneath the subsoil they provide a foundation for all layers that sit on top of it. The primary foundation is located below this and is called the bedrock. This series of science reading worksheets investigates many different aspects of soil including the composition of a rich and fertile medium for plants and other living organisms. We look at the rocks and minerals that can contribute to the positive health of an ecosystem. For the first time students will begin the value the role that decomposers have for the environment. Students explore the benefits and challenges that are presented by consistent erosion of the Earth’s surface. Students also look at how water and flows of it contribute to shaping landforms.