My Science Box

Time
45-55 minutes

Grouping
individual

Materials

1. Computer with internet access, preferably with a projector for the whole class to watch at once, although multiple computers that groups of 4 students can share will also work.
2. Watering can to simulate rain
3. Pitcher, watering can, or container you can pour muddy water from
4. Masking tape
5. Clear plastic tray or cup with 3-4 holes punched in the bottom (the clear lids of take-out salad containers are perfect although clear plastic cups will do as well.)
6. Square of cheesecloth large enough to cover the bottom of the tray or cup
7. Good loamy soil with a mix of sand, silt, clay and organic matter to represent marsh soil (garden soil is fine although you can always collect soil from a marsh to study and observe the real thing)
8. Hand trowel
9. Large basin that your tray can sit in (a large plastic dishwashing basin works well)

Setting
classroom