K-6 Science for the Next Generation

Lesson Plans
Weathering and Erosion by People

Learning Objectives

  • Understand how human activities such as mining and quarrying contribute to weathering and erosion.
  • Explain the impact of deforestation on soil erosion and land stability.
  • Describe how the construction of dams can alter natural erosion patterns.
  • Identify the effects of vegetation removal for agriculture and urban development on soil erosion.

Introduction and Hook

Begin the lesson by discussing how human activities can alter the Earth's surface, focusing on mining, deforestation, and construction. This introduction sets the stage for understanding the impact of human actions on weathering and erosion.

Go to the Lesson

Direct Instruction

Use the video 'Weathering and Erosion – A Visit to Bryce Canyon National Park' to illustrate natural weathering processes and compare them with human-induced changes.

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Explain the impact of deforestation on soil erosion using real-world examples and visuals to enhance understanding.

Guided Exploration

Watch 'The Grand Canyon' video to explore how natural erosion shapes landscapes over time, providing a basis for understanding human impacts.

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Discuss how the construction of dams alters natural erosion patterns, using images and diagrams to visualize these changes.

Hands-On Activity

Engage students in a hands-on activity where they simulate erosion using sand, water, and small plants to observe the effects of vegetation removal.

Use the 'Weathering, Erosion and Deposition' assessment to build a model of a natural environment and explore these processes.

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Independent Practice

Assign students to research a local area affected by human-induced erosion and propose solutions to mitigate the impact.

Check for Understanding

Conduct a class discussion to review the effects of mining, deforestation, and dam construction on erosion, encouraging students to share their findings from independent practice.

Review and Reflection

Have students reflect on how human activities can be altered to reduce negative impacts on the Earth's surface, using examples from the lesson.

Assessment and Extension

Use the 'Comprehension – Erosion' assessment to evaluate students' understanding of erosion and its causes.

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For further exploration, encourage students to watch the 'Lighthouse Lab – Coastal Erosion' video to understand human interventions in erosion control.

Try the Quiz
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