Activity

Water run-off

In this activity, students construct models that resemble rain falling on a hillside to observe factors affecting soil erosion and ground stability.

Stanley Park lake in the rain

The water cycle plays an important role in our weather in ways we can see, like rain and clouds, and in many ways that we can’t easily see.

Rights: Public domain – worldwide

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • explain that erosion is the wearing away of soil by water

  • demonstrate that steepness of land affects rate of water flow and potential for erosion

  • demonstrate two ways in which vegetation prevents or lessens erosion.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

  • introduction/background notes

  • what you need

  • what to do

  • discussion questions

  • extension ideas.

Published: 3 June 2009,Updated: 1 October 2012