Green Pencil Foundation | 3 October 2026 | GTB Nagar, Delhi
Soil is often something we walk on, build on and grow food in, but rarely stop to think about. Yet beneath our feet exists a complex living system filled with organisms, nutrients and natural processes that support life.
On 3 October 2026, Green Pencil Foundation conducted its weekly Nature Education Program at its adopted Delhi Government School in GTB Nagar, Delhi, engaging students from Grades 5 and 8 in an experiential learning session focused on soil and its relationship with nature, people and culture.
Understanding Soil as a Living System
The session began by encouraging students to look at soil differently not simply as dirt, but as a living system that plays an essential role in sustaining ecosystems.
Students explored how soil is formed over time and discussed the different organisms that live within it. From tiny organisms that are difficult to see with the naked eye to larger creatures that interact with the soil, students learnt how these organisms contribute to the health and functioning of ecosystems.
The discussion also helped students understand that healthy soil is connected to healthy plants, biodiversity and, ultimately, human life.
Connecting Soil with Everyday Life, Art and Culture
The learning extended beyond science.
Students explored the ways in which soil has been connected with human life, art and culture for generations. Soil and natural earth materials have traditionally been used in different forms of art, craft, construction and cultural practices.
This helped students see that nature is not something separate from our lives. It is closely connected to the way communities live, create and interact with their surroundings.
Learning Through Soil-Based Art
The session concluded with a hands-on soil-based art activity.
Instead of simply listening to information about soil, students had the opportunity to work with it directly and express their understanding creatively. The activity encouraged observation, experimentation and imagination while creating a stronger connection between classroom learning and the natural world.
For the students, it was an opportunity to learn by doing and to discover that even an ordinary handful of soil can become a source of curiosity and creativity.
Making Nature Education Experiential
Green Pencil Foundation’s Nature Education Program focuses on helping children build a meaningful relationship with nature through observation, exploration and experiential learning.
Sessions such as this are designed to move environmental education beyond textbooks and classrooms. When students observe soil, birds, plants, insects and other elements of their surroundings directly, they begin to understand nature as something they are part of not merely something they study.
The Soil Module was another step towards encouraging young learners to ask questions, explore their surroundings and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural systems that sustain life.
Looking Beyond What We See
The soil beneath our feet may appear ordinary, but it supports an extraordinary amount of life.
Through the weekly Nature Education Program, Green Pencil Foundation continues to create opportunities for students to pause, observe and understand these often-overlooked connections.
Because environmental education is not only about learning about nature.
It is about learning with nature.
And sometimes, the best way to begin is simply by getting our hands into the soil.
