EITHER Session 1a (with foreshore fieldwork)
Fieldwork includes recording simple abiotic data (water temperature, weather, state of tide), assessing water quality through chemical tests and invertebrate sampling and assessing the impact of rubbish on local wildlife, plus investigation of river features such as erosion, transportation and deposition. An Environmental Impact trail gathers evidence of how riverside settlements have adapted the river for different purposes including flood protection.
OR Session 1b (no foreshore, as tide is high)
On a waterfront trail, we gather evidence of how riverside settlements have adapted the river for different purposes and record different types of flood protection. Impact of change is assessed. Physical geography fieldwork includes recording and sketching key features such as meanders, island formation and tides (plus erosion and deposition if visible); measuring and recording activities (depth, speed, width, temperature, pH, hardness).
Session 2
Pupils find “pollution solutions” to help devise a sustainable future for the river. A PowerPoint talk highlights main geographic features, human impacts and options for future management.
Sites: Chiswick Kew Bridge
