The EU as a context for science lessons may be given scant attention but EU decision-making is a vital factor in everyday life. Lessons on the emergence of soil science with Charles Darwin's simple scientific experiments can be linked with competence through action, inclusion and argumentations in science lessons. Decisions about an EU Soil Directive will have far-reaching effects on future environmental responsibility and sustainable living, requiring pupils to understand their role in data collection and in discussion of scientific concepts in terms of their cultural, economic, commercial and social implications when legislation concerning soil protection is implemented locally. (Contains 3 figures and 1 table.)