Rocks and soil — Earth science, 4–6 years
The ground is not just one thing: it contains hard rocks and softer soil that can hold plant roots.
What is under our feet
Rocks are hard pieces of Earth, from tiny grains to large boulders. Soil is a loose mixture of small rock pieces, air, water and remains of living things, so it can feel crumbly and help plants grow.
Why tell them apart?
People need to know what the ground can do: a rock may support a wall, while soil may support a plant. Looking closely also helps us find safe places to walk, choose where to grow food and notice how rain changes the ground.
Sorting what we find
Take three safe samples from the ground: a pebble, a handful of soil and a dry leaf. The pebble stays hard and keeps its shape; the soil falls into crumbs; the leaf is once-living material that can become part of soil.
Dirt is not rubbish
It is reasonable to call soil dirt because it can stain hands and clothes. But soil is a living place and a useful material: it stores water, holds roots and contains tiny organisms that help break down dead leaves.
Where rocks and soil matter
Rocks are used for paths, buildings and walls, while soil grows vegetables, trees and flowers. Earthworms, beetles and many tiny living things use soil as a home, so healthy ground matters to more than people.
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