Fifth graders research soil, its nutrients, and plant growth. In this soil lesson plan, 5th graders create soil journals, trace flowers, and include nutrient information on each petal. Students read an excerpt from "McBroom Tells the Truth." Students discuss adjectives and experiment with soil samples. Students complete a compare/contrast Venn diagram for the soil and create a soil hypothesis. Students illustrate farms and types of soil. Students complete a 'Reader Theatre' and class discussion.