Define and explain the four main types of fluvial erosion — hydraulic action, abrasion, attrition and solution — using clear diagrams and real‑river examples that build precise GCSE terminology.

Describe the methods by which a river transports its load including traction, saltation, suspension and solution, supported by visual models that help pupils understand how sediment moves downstream.

Explain why and where deposition occurs by linking changes in velocity, discharge and gradient to the formation of bars, floodplains and other depositional features.

Contrast vertical and lateral erosion across the river’s course so pupils can confidently explain why steep upper‑course valleys deepen while lower‑course channels widen and meanders develop.

This lesson is exam‑focused, visually rich, and easy to teach, giving pupils a strong conceptual foundation before moving into river landforms, flooding and management.

Some visuals in this resource were made with AI to help bring ideas to life and support student understanding.