How Rivers Are Formed

This scene takes the form of three rivers. Each of them has the same origin, but lead into a valley, canon, and gorge. Within the scene there are three sections that can be explored including a mountain, a glacier, and a lake. In this scene you will be exploring three different river sources and looking at how they carved their path through the environment. Each river starts in its own unique way and has a different impact on the land that it moves through, and you will have the chance to walk alongside them – and even over them if you dare.

# Learning objectives

1: To understand the different sources of a river.{.info}

2: To describe glacial runoff.{.info}

3: To explain the formation of lakes.{.info}

4: To explain the differences between valleys, canyons and gorges.{.info}

# Mountain Sources{.objective .objective1}

In this section there is one area where our river begins. In this activity students are asked to enter the scene to investigate the source of the river.

# Glacial Runoff{.objective .objective2}

In this section the glaciers get larger and as its gradually melts in the sunlight, students can learn about what is causing ‘runoff’. They are asked to investigate the effect glacial runoff has on the environment.

# Lakes{.objective .objective3}

In this section students can learn how lakes are formed. Students will investigate the effects of gravity.


# Valleys, Canyons and Gorges{.objective .objective4}

In this section students can learn how valleys, canyons and gorges are formed. Students are asked to enter the scene to look for evidence that reveals how valleys, canyons and gorges are different from one another.

# Teacher Resources

### Download Teacher Notes

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/792360/files/How%20Rivers+Are+Formed+Teacher+Notes+1.pdf?date=1676367048&size=824676&md5=8c378e63809f2d28d4a8af578ebae79c)

### Student Quiz Answers Document

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/792361/files/How%20Rivers+Are+Formed+Teacher+Notes+2.pdf?date=1676389595&size=369509&md5=94edb4fab5a9529584b14a2528009d6d)

### Download Student Quiz Document

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/792364/files/How%20Rivers+Are+Formed+Teacher+Notes+3.pdf?date=1676367515&size=68446&md5=b398e5d8bc7da75786f46c37755320df)