Lesson plan: Soil-Vegetation Connections in the Boreal Forest

Grade Level:

Grade 12 (secondary school)

Time Required:

Two classes (One class in the field and one class for analysis and interpretation.)

Main Objective

To investigate the relationship between soil type and boreal forest vegetation cover.

Curriculum Connection

Atlantic Provinces Curriculum for Social Studies: Council of Atlantic Ministers of Education and Training (CAMET): Newfoundland and Labrador

Canadian Geography 1202, Section 3.3 (This lesson should be used at the end of the unit, after students have learned about soil characteristics.)

This lesson may be modified for any similar courses across Canada. It is also a good fit with the Higher Level IB Geography programme.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

perform basic observations on a soil profile;
recognize differences between different types of soil profiles (podzolic and brunisolic soils) common in Newfoundland and Labrador and other Canadian boreal forests;
assess the role of boreal forest trees and understory vegetation in soil development;
recognize the interplay between soil, vegetation, and climate;
appreciate the importance of sustainable forest management practices.

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Lesson Plan

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Overview

The boreal forest is identified as being a key ecosystem which contributes much to the world and Canada. Understanding its formation, role, fragility, resources, and maintenance will enable the nurturing of sound sustainable practices.

This lesson involves two components. First, students will observe and measure a soil profile in the field. Next, they will analyze and interpret the profiles in the classroom. This process will enable students to make connections between soils and forest cover.