Students investigate how organic matter increases the amount of water soil will hold. In this water soil lesson plan, students use soil and measure water amounts using organic matter. Students measure the water holding capacities.

Students recognize the presence of organic matter in soils from their immediate area and recognize which soil sample contains the highest concentration of organic matter.

Students explore how coal is formed. They then discuss the information and answer any questions that they may have on the formation of coal. Students then answer questions in reference to the coal discussion and reading.

Students examine soil samples for the presence of organic matter. They determine which soil sample from their area contains the highest amount of organic matter.