Page 26 - FOUNDATIONS FOR LIFE; EXPLORING GOD’S UNIVERSE

Science Y5 – Living and non-living things – week 10
SOW ON FERTILE SOIL

Truth to Teach (Source)

Matthew 13:1-8 Parable of the Sower

 To discover how soils are made

 To realise that soils are different because rocks are different

Way to Work (Means)

1. Review the previous lesson.

2. Read and discuss the Parable of the Sower.

3. Show a variety of different coloured soils and talk about why they are different.

Worn-down rock + humus + air + water = soil

Explain that humus is dead and rotting material. Use different adjectives to describe the

soils, e.g. gravely, sandy, heavy, light, rich.

4. Talk about the suitability of each soil for various jobs, e.g. soil for a long-jump pit, soil for a
drive, soil for a playing field.

5. Equip the children with the apparatus they need to conduct experiments on the soils (see
worksheet). Let them create their own tests on the soils too; emphasise the importance of
clear and accurate recording. Remind them of the importance of fair testing. Talk about the
meaning of ‘sediment’, ‘solution’ and ‘filtration’.

6 Gather back to share findings. Share briefly about the use of fertilisers to change soils and
the importance of composting.

7. End by praying that our lives will provide good soil for the Word of God to take root and
grow.

Learning for Life (Fulfilment)

The children will have gained experience in designing their own fair tests, recording results and in
working together. They should have learnt more of the importance of the correct soil for the correct
task. The spiritual lessons we can learn from soil are also important.

24