Understand the importance of soil and how what's in it relates to its ability to support good plant growth. Tell how plants adapt to soils that aren't perfect. Describe the relationship between soil and plant life. Recognize that there is a lot of important activity going on below the surface where the roots of plants are located. Use new vocabulary words such as nutrients, soil particles, texture, structure, organic matter, topsoil, and subsoil. Describe what types of living organisms can be found in and around soil. Use observation and classification to identify components of the soil. Recognize other things that can be used in place of soil. Describe the importance of the soil "critters" and how they break down organic matter.

Soil makeup is important in keeping plants alive. We can change soil composition in ways that will help a plant's ability to survive and grow. Microbes, solid particles, chemicals, and living plant material all work together to produce a balance that supports a variety of life forms. Soil is made up of three basic units: sand, silt, and clay. Composting is nature's way of changing organic wastes into plant food that is used to keep many living things alive.