New Learning Scenarios from LOESS on Scientix: Teach Soil Health with STEM Subjects!

Funded by Horizon Europe under the EU Mission ‘A Soil Deal for Europe’, LOESS recognises soil as a key factor in addressing climate change, sustaining biodiversity, and ensuring food security. But raising awareness and improving soil literacy across all layers of society takes more than just facts and data. It requires educational tools that connect with students’ everyday lives.

These new learning scenarios are a step in that direction. Developed by teachers involved in the LOESS project, they include science education subjects like biology, chemistry, geography, physics, and more, offering engaging, curriculum-ready resources for classrooms across Europe. Each of these, along with 12 more learning scenarios developed by teachers who participated in the LOESS MOOC “Soil Education: A STEM Integrated Approach”, will be published in the upcoming LOESS Atlas of Soil Education.

Here’s a look at the four new additions to the Scientix resource repository:

Exploring Soil: A Learning Across STEM

A multidisciplinary series of lessons on the components of soil, its organisms, and physical properties. Designed for learners aged 11-13, this scenario uses biology, chemistry, physics, and math to help reach an understanding of soil’s role in ecosystems and sustainability.
By Sarika Chawla and Nikita Poirier

SOS! Save Our Soils!

A hands-on experience facilitated by digital tools for students aged 15-18. Learners explore soil degradation, conduct virtual lab experiments, and work with GIS tools to build critical thinking and persuasive communication skills.
By Emma Abbate and Vittoria Buccigrossi

The Life Beneath Our Feet

Students aged 11-16 investigate soil biodiversity and use mathematical analysis to understand its health across various environments. The scenario encourages local environmental awareness and problem-solving.
By Bosiljko Đerek and Tina Copot

Soil Detectives

A creative, lab-based scenario for students aged 14-16, where learners analyse local soils and present findings in a GIS and even in a song. The activity also explores the ethical use of AI and sustainable agriculture.
By Ana Belén Yuste Martínez and Javier Calamardo Murat​​​​​​​

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Each learning scenario is available in 13 different languages and can be adapted to fit various curricula. Download and explore them all and bring soil literacy to your classroom today!