Shropshire Hills Learning

River Study

Systematic enquiry through recording, timing and measuring to compile data of a valley site. Such data can include widths of valley, size of channel and water surface, depths across and downstream, velocity down a 10 metre section and use of a Cailleaux index with random bedload samples. This can act as a springboard for GCSE students to return to school and undertake their own studies. Altrnatively we can conduct studies of more than one site to provide comparative data for formulating hypotheses about the cutting and depositional sections of the valley and changes along the river length. Separate groups can compare and discuss differing measurements from various parts of the valley back at school/college.

For this service, we guarantee one adult leader per class (but often 1:15 with the 15 students splitting into 3 groups).

For primary pupils, graphs, charts, averages and comparisons by using the collected data back at school will lead to much mathematical discussion and organisation. The fieldwork enables children to use the full range of science processes in their investigations and ‘life processes' can be part of looking for and identifying invertebrates in the stream (see Field Laboratories).

Secondary students may likewise wish to follow up with comparisons but use the gathered data to draw cross sections, calculate volume flow and justify their hypotheses. If so required, we can organise comparing four or so sites. We provide all measuring equipment, clipboards for sketching and recording sheets.

Why not take advantage of our early spring or late autumn opening to avoid the summer congestion and to be surer of finding sufficient depths of water for river study?