- -   AGRICULTURE CORE CURRICULUM  - -

(CLF7000)  Advanced Core Cluster:  PLANT SCIENCE AND SOIL SCIENCE

    (CLF7400)  Unit Title:  SOILS

                               UNIT DIRECTORY:

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        Code         Topic Title                          Hours     Year(s)
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       (CLF7401)     Introduction to Soils                   1         3/4  
                                                                            
       (CLF7402)     Soil Forming Factors                    2         3/4  
                                                                            
       (CLF7403)     Soil Horizons Text and Structures       4         3/4  
                                                                            
       (CLF7404)     Basic Soil Components                   1         3/4  
                                                                       
       (CLF7405)     Benefits of Soil Organisms              5         3/4   
                                                                            
       (CLF7406)     Organic Matter in the Soil              2         3/4  
                                                                            
       (CLF7407)     Soil Environment Problems               4         3/4  
                                                                            
       (CLF7408)     Soil Compaction                         3         3/4   
                                                                            
       (CLF7409)     Soil Moisture Behavior                  3         3/4
                                                                            
       (CLF7410)     Soil Water                              3         3/4
                                                                      
       (CLF7411)     Soil Classification Systems             2         3/4
                                                                            
       (CLF7412)     Mgmt. Practices for Sandy & Organic     2         3/4
                     Soils                                                  
                                                                            
                                    TOTAL TIME FOR UNIT =    32

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UNIT GOAL:  Students will identify the basic components of soil, the types
            of soil, the rating procedures used and the properties of soil 
            that are necessary for successful crop production.

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UNIT OBJECTIVES:  Upon completion of this unit, the students will be able 
                  to:

1.  List four functions the soil provides for the growing plants.

2.  Define soil in terms of its functions; relationship to earth, economic 
    uses, and components.

3.  Name the five major factors in the formation of soils.

4.  Compare and contrast the three horizons in a soil profile. 

5.  Define soil texture and soil structure and identify soil texture by 
    touch.

6.  List the four basic components of soil.

7.  List the benefits of earthworms and microorganisms in the soil.

8.  Identify types of organic matter in the soil and list ways they benefit 
    the soil.

9.  Determine soil pH using a soil test kit.

10. Distinguish between and alkali, alkaline, and saline soil conditions and
    describe their effects on plant growth.

11. List soil environmental factors affecting plant nutrient availability.

12. Identify four visible effects of soil compaction on plants and four 
    effects it has on the soil.

13. List ways to improve soil structure.

14. Define tilth.

15. List two factors that contribute to soil compaction and the destruction