Soil is a fundamental component of Earth’s ecosystems, playing a crucial role in supporting plant life, regulating water cycles, and storing carbon. In IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) Topic 5.1, students explore soil formation, composition, and its importance in sustaining terrestrial ecosystems. Understanding soil properties such as texture, permeability, and nutrient cycling helps us assess its role in agriculture, biodiversity, and environmental management. This webpage provides in-depth resources, including presentations and Theory of Knowledge questions to support this content within the IB ESS framework.
Lessons
Lesson 1: The Soil System
- Presentation
- Worksheet: Soil texture practice
Lesson 2: Soil Formation
Theory of Knowledge
- How do cultural and historical perspectives shape different societies’ approaches to soil conservation and land use?
- What role does language play in shaping our perception of soil as a natural resource versus a commodity?