Weathering and Erosion

Weathering and Erosion

What students learn

Students learn that weathering breaks rock into smaller pieces and that erosion moves those pieces from one place to another. Begin with Weathering and Erosion: See Rock Break Down to name the first process.

Why it matters

This lesson helps students understand why hills, cliffs, riverbanks, and shores do not stay exactly the same forever. Use Weathering and Erosion: Notice Wind and Water Move Soil to show how moving water and wind can carry material away.

Learn the idea

Weathering and erosion work slowly, but over time they can shape new landforms and make soil from rock pieces. Watch Weathering and Erosion: Explain How Land Changes and ask students to name one force that changes Earth over time.

Try it

Give students a handful of sand, soil, or small stones and ask them to describe what would happen if wind or water moved it. Have them explain which part is weathering and which part is erosion.

Parent guide

Keep the explanation simple: weathering breaks, erosion moves. Use a sidewalk crack, a muddy puddle, or a windy day as an example. If the child is ready, ask how weathering and erosion can eventually form soil.