Lesson Plan

• Describe the key characteristics of arid environments and the water‑balance equation.
• Explain how physical, chemical and biological weathering operate in desert settings.
• Analyse the role of wind and water processes in creating typical arid landforms.
• Evaluate human management strategies that reduce desertification.

• Projector and laptop for PowerPoint slides
• Handout with diagrams of desert landforms
• Sand tray and fine sand for demonstration
• Worksheet with case‑study questions
• World map or digital GIS tool
• Whiteboard and markers

Begin with striking images of dunes and flash‑flood canyons to spark curiosity. Ask students what they already know about how deserts shape the land. Explain that today they will identify the processes behind those features and how we can manage fragile desert landscapes. Success will be measured by their ability to link processes to specific landforms and propose mitigation ideas.

1. Do‑now (5') – Quick quiz on climate classifications and precipitation vs. PET.
2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Water‑balance equation, dominant physical weathering, and brief overview of chemical/biological weathering in arid zones.
3. Demonstration (10') – Using a sand tray to show deflation, saltation, and dune formation.
4. Group activity (15') – Analyse a case study of a flash‑flood creating an alluvial fan; complete worksheet questions.
5. Interactive mapping (10') – Locate and label desert landforms (yardangs, ventifacts, playas, etc.) on a world map, discussing the responsible processes.
6. Check for understanding (5') – Exit ticket: list two management techniques and explain which process each addresses.

Recap how weathering, wind, and episodic water shape the distinctive landforms of arid environments. Collect exit tickets to gauge understanding and assign a short homework: research a local or regional arid area and propose one practical measure to reduce desertification there.