Take a soil sample

What can we use instead of a small trowel, clear jar, or magnifying glass if we don't have them?

If you don't have the small trowel use a sturdy spoon or stick to dig about 5 centimeters, substitute the clear jar with a resealable clear plastic bag or clear plastic cup to hold the soil, and use a phone camera zoom or reading glasses instead of the magnifying glass to look closely at the sample.

What should we do if it's hard to dig 5 centimeters or the soil keeps spilling from the jar?

If the ground is too hard to reach 5 centimeters choose a softer spot or loosen the soil with the trowel or stick before scooping, and if the clear jar won't close tightly transfer the soil into a resealable plastic bag or press the lid down and wrap it with tape so the soil stays inside.

How can we change the steps for different ages of children?

For preschoolers have an adult dig the hole and let them do simple tasks like naming the soil color and feeling a tiny pinch, for elementary kids follow all steps including writing the date/place and one-sentence texture notes, and for older kids add detailed notebook sketches with the magnifying glass and compare multiple samples before sharing on DIY.org.

How can we extend or personalize the soil sampling activity after finishing the basic steps?

Turn it into a mini-project by taking samples from several spots, labeling each clear jar or bag with the date and place in your notebook, comparing colors and textures side-by-side, trying simple moisture or pH tests, planting seeds in different samples, and posting photos and notes on DIY.org.