Soil Principles Formative Assessment

Abigail is studying the factors that contribute to the formation of soil in her local area. During her research, she learns about various elements that play a role in soil development. However, she comes across a term that seems out of place. Which of the following is NOT considered one of the five major factors of soil formation?

• Parent Material

• Topography

• Climate

• Animal Size

• Time

Harper, a farmer, is considering different practices for managing his soil. He wants to ensure that his farming methods are sustainable and beneficial for the environment. What should he aim for?

• Maximize short-term crop yields regardless of long-term impact

• Promote soil degradation to reduce pest populations

• Maintain or enhance soil health, productivity, and ecosystem services for the long term.

• Rely solely on synthetic fertilizers.

Charlotte is a gardener who is trying to improve the quality of her soil. She learns about different components of soil and comes across a term that describes a specific type of organic matter. What is humus?

• Undecomposed plant material on the soil surface

• The solid bedrock beneath the soil.

• Stable, decomposed organic matter in the soil.

• A type of soil fertilizer.

Emma is a gardener who loves to cultivate her vegetable patch. She finds that the soil in her garden has good "tilth"; it is easy to work, crumbles well, and has a favorable structure for plant growth.

• True

• False

Nora is a gardener who has been observing how rainwater seeps into her garden soil. She notices that as the water moves downwards, it carries along with it various nutrients and minerals. She wonders what this process is called.

• Erosion

• Infiltration

• Leaching

• Compaction

In a garden, Anika notices that the soil is rich and healthy. She learns that the primary role of earthworms in soil is to mix organic matter, which helps plants grow better. What is the primary role of earthworms in soil?

In a community garden, Maya is trying to understand which soil component will help her plants retain water and nutrients effectively. She learns that one of the soil components is particularly known for its ability to provide most of the water-holding capacity and nutrient retention. Which component is she referring to?

Aria is a gardener who wants to grow vegetables in her backyard. She tests the soil and finds that it has a pH of 5. What does this indicate about the soil's acidity or alkalinity?

• It is strongly alkaline

• It is neutral

• Moderately acidic

• Very basic

In a local park, Abigail noticed that the O Horizon (organic layer) of the soil near the trees is primarily composed of weathered bedrock.

• False

• True

Abigail is a gardener who wants to improve her garden's soil quality. She learns that soil texture refers to the proportion of which three primary mineral particles?

• Sand, Silt, and Gravel

• Sand, Silt, and Clay

• Loam, Clay, and Humus

• Sand, Rock, and Water