Investigating Soil Composition - Soil Soaks Up Water part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a classroom quick lab where students explore sand, soil, and water in relation to absorption and permeability.

Comparing Soil Samples from different locations part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this field investigation, students compare various soil samples taken from specific locations. Students compare samples, record data, create a chart or graph, and journal.

Combustion/Pollution part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
Students observe a burning candle and the byproducts given off through the burning process. This observation leads to a discussion to the effects of air pollution on our lives.

Water Quality part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This is a field investigation in which students test water quality in 2-3 areas using their own testable question.

Investigating Soil-Which soil help plants grow? part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a guided inquiry investigation where students gather data on which soil is the best for growing plants. Student will interpret their data, and develop a conclusion from the data. The student will determine which type of soil they would like to use in the next activity of making their own terrariums. The data collected could lead to further questions, which can be investigated in some extension activities.

Our Friend the Worm! - Introducing Worm Composting into the Classroom part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is an introduction to setting up a composting worm bin in the classroom. It is part of a yearlong study on the interaction and influences that living system have on each other.

Sinking Water: A Connection With Glaciers, Ocean Currents and Weather Patterns part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This lesson has activities where students will learn about buoyancy and explore how hot water rises and cold water sinks. As an extension and real-life application, students will see that glacial run-off is occurring at a rapid pace and the cold glacial water could potentially change ocean currents thus influencing global climates.

Erosion in Our World part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a field investigation where students find real-life examples of erosion in their school surroundings. Students will extend what they learned during stream table lessons about erosion, deposition, deltas, meandering streams, and dams.

Natural Stream Tables part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
This activity is a field investigation on stream tables.

Minnesota's Natural Resources part of MnSTEP Activity Mini-collection
In this lesson students will learn about Minnesota's natural resources, particularly iron ore.