Mesopotamian Agriculture and Soil- Part 1

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NOTES

This lesson is the first of two parts

OBJECTIVE

Students understand the relationship between irrigation and salt build up. 

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

How do soil health, plant health, and peoples’ health relate?

MATERIALS NEEDED

Salt

Trays labeled “salt,” “no salt,” “no water”

Soil

Sunflower seeds

Tape

Sharpie

Two solo cups (one labeled “with salt,” one labeled “no salt”)

PROCEDURE

Introduction: What happens to water on a field in a hot, dry climate? What does it leave behind? What does that do to the soil? 

Activity: Divide students into three groups. 

Wrap up: write down hypothesis: what do you think will happen to each tray?

Extensions: