Lesson 1: The Soil Textural Triangle

How can math identify why a garden is struggling? What is the "ideal" recipe for soil?

Sand, Silt, Clay, Loam, Percent Composition, Textural Triangle.

DCI: ESS2.A (Earth Materials); SEP: Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking; CCC: Patterns.

Mathematics in Science: Calculating percentages and navigating a non-Cartesian coordinate system (the three-axis triangular grid).

(DOK 3) Students use sedimentation tubes in the "Soil ID Lab" to measure layers. They apply the percent composition formula and practice navigating the soil triangle to find exact classifications.

Neighbor’s Flowerbeds: Students determine that the "puddling" bed has a high percentage of clay, while the healthy bed is a balanced "loam" that allows for both water storage and drainage.

Students frequently try to read the triangular grid lines horizontally like a standard X-Y graph rather than following the slanted axis lines.

Differentiation by Content:
Tiered Assignments: Create assignments with varying levels of difficulty to cater to students' abilities. For example, offer a basic level assignment, an intermediate level assignment, and an advanced level assignment.
Flexible Grouping: Group students based on their readiness levels or learning styles. This allows you to provide targeted instruction and support to different groups of students.
Choice Boards: Offer students a variety of activities to choose from, allowing them to select tasks that align with their interests and learning styles.
Differentiation by Process:
Scaffolded Instruction: Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps to support students who need additional guidance.
Graphic Organizers: Provide students with visual tools like Venn diagrams, concept maps, and timelines to help them organize information and make connections.
Technology Integration: Utilize technology tools like simulations, online resources, and educational apps to engage students and provide alternative learning pathways.
Differentiation by Product:
Multiple Assessment Options: Offer students a variety of ways to demonstrate their understanding, such as written reports, presentations, models, or digital projects.
Student Choice: Allow students to choose the format for their final projects, giving them ownership over their learning.
Rubrics: Develop clear and specific rubrics to provide students with expectations and guidelines for their work.

LP 2.2 Checkpoint (Quiz)

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ETw0o2YUnT2IGA_8N06jmUwxOpffeDGa?usp=drive_link