Youth Education Resources for Ages 5-11

How Dirt Works

Soil sustains plant and animal life, regulates water, filters pollutants, cycles nutrients and supports structures. In this lesson, students learn the value of soil and its role as a natural resource. This lesson uses the video "How Dirt Works" below.

The Role of Soil

Soil is the building block of all natural systems and is a crucial resource for all life on earth. When managed properly, soil supports healthy and productive habitats in your garden and in nature. In this lesson, students conduct soil analyses to understand soil types and determine the health of their garden soil. This lesson uses the video "How Dirt Works" below.

How Water Works in Your Garden

By filtering rainwater and slowing the movement of water to rivers, lakes and oceans, your garden works as a mini-watershed. In this lesson, students calculate the permeable surface area of their garden and periodically measure rainfall amounts, acting as junior hydrologists. Watch the Educator Support Video.

Food and Carbon

Students will consider different ways food is produced, transported and consumed and will evaluate how food they grow locally may have a smaller carbon footprint than food found in the grocery store. The Industrial Tomato and The Local Tomato highlight the differences between the two types of tomatoes.

Gardens as Living Systems

In this lesson, students explore how a garden works as a living natural system. A garden filters water, provides habitat, improves soil, reduces your carbon footprint and engages the community.