Soil and the Environment

Open Ended

In what ways does soil contribute to the environment and living things around us?

Multiple Choice

Why is soil important for life on Earth?

• It supports plant growth and provides habitat for organisms.

• It is only made of rocks and minerals.

• It is not needed for clean water.

• It is harmful to living things.

Multiple Choice

Which layer of soil contains the most organic material and is where plants and organisms like to live?

• Topsoil

• Subsoil

• Parent material

• Bedrock

Open Ended

Name one creature that lives in soil.

Fill in the Blanks

Name two examples of burrowing animals that make their homes in the soil.

Open Ended

How do earthworms contribute to the health of soil and the growth of plants?

Multiple Choice

Which of the following soil particles is the smallest in size?

• Sand

• Silt

• Clay

• Gravel

Fill in the Blanks

Loamy soil is best for gardening because it contains almost equal amounts of

and silt and a bit of clay.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a step in the process of soil erosion?

• Detachment

• Transportation

• Deposition

• Decomposition

Open Ended

Explain how humans can help prevent soil erosion, using information from the images.

Open Ended

What are two possible negative effects of using pesticides on soil and wildlife?

Multiple Select

Which of the following are good materials to add to a compost bin?

• Rotten fruit/vegetables

• Plastic/metal recycling

• Eggshells

• Meat scraps

Fill in the Blanks

The compost cycle helps new plants grow by breaking down

materials.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a way humans impact soil?

• Adding compost as fertilizer

• Removing rocks from soil

• Watering plants

• Building houses

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is NOT a strategy used to maintain and improve soil health in Ontario?

• Planting a variety of different plants

• Adding fertilizers and compost to the soil

• Testing and monitoring soil health

• Removing all plants from the soil

Open Ended

After learning about soil, what is one question you still have or something you would like to know more about?

Multiple Choice

What are two important reasons why soil is necessary for life on Earth?

• It helps plants grow and provides a home for organisms.

• It is used to build houses and roads.

• It is a source of electricity and fuel.

• It is only found in deserts and mountains.

Open Ended

Describe two ways that playing in dirt or soil can benefit children, based on the information provided in the images.