The middle and lower course of a river
I can describe the characteristics and landforms associated with the middle and lower course of a river.
The middle and lower course of a river
I can describe the characteristics and landforms associated with the middle and lower course of a river.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- As the river flows downstream, the gradient becomes flatter and the river becomes wider and deeper.
- Landforms such as meanders form in the middle course of a river.
- Landforms such as levees, flodplains, estuaries and deltas can be found in the lower course.
- Over time oxbow lakes can form when meander loops become cut off following a flood.
- Deposition occurs in the lower course and this forms landforms such as deltas and estuaries.
Keywords
Meander - a winding bend in a river
Oxbow lake - a curved lake formed by an old meander
Levee - an embankment alongside a river
Floodplain - a flat area of land either side of a river which experiences flood in periods of high river flow
Estuary - the tidal mouth of a river, where the river meets the sea or ocean
Common misconception
Levees are man made.
Levees can be built as a flood defence but they can also be created naturally.
To help you plan your year 9 geography lesson on: The middle and lower course of a river, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 geography lesson on: The middle and lower course of a river, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Rivers: How do rivers shape the land? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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