Lesson Plan

Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Geography
Lesson Topic: River channel processes and landforms: erosion, transport, deposition, flow patterns, landform formation
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe how hydraulic action, abrasion and solution contribute to river erosion.
  • Explain the relationship between discharge, slope and sediment size on transport competence.
  • Identify conditions that cause deposition and the landforms that result.
  • Distinguish between straight, meandering, braided and anastomosing flow patterns.
  • Evaluate flood and erosion hazards based on channel morphology.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides presentation with diagrams
  • Handout summarising erosion, transport, deposition processes
  • River cross‑section diagram worksheets
  • Sample sediment (sand, gravel) for demonstration
  • Whiteboard and markers
Introduction:
Begin with a striking image of a dramatic river gorge to capture interest. Ask students what factors shape a river’s channel and recall previous lessons on the water cycle. Outline today’s success criteria: students will be able to explain erosion, transport and deposition mechanisms, link flow patterns to landforms, and assess related hazards.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – quick quiz on basic river terminology displayed on board.
  2. Mini‑lecture (15’) – overview of erosion processes with video clip and diagram.
  3. Interactive modelling (10’) – students use sand and water trays to observe traction, saltation, and suspension.
  4. Flow patterns & landforms (15’) – group analysis of the flow‑pattern table and creation of a mind map linking patterns to specific landforms.
  5. Hazard case study (10’) – examine a recent flood event and identify river‑bank erosion risks.
  6. Check for understanding (5’) – exit ticket: list three conditions that lead to deposition.
Conclusion:
Summarise how erosion, transport and deposition interact to shape river landforms and influence hazards. Students complete an exit ticket matching a flow pattern to its characteristic landform. For homework, they will research a local river and produce a brief report on its dominant processes.