The formation of mountains
I can use geographical vocabulary to describe and explain how mountains are formed and shaped over time.
The formation of mountains
I can use geographical vocabulary to describe and explain how mountains are formed and shaped over time.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Earth’s crust is made from a series of tectonic plates, which constantly move, but so slowly that we don’t notice.
- Mountains are formed when tectonic plates move towards each other, pushing the ground upwards, lifting and folding it.
- There are three common types of mountain: fold, fault-block and dome.
- Mountains are formed over millions of years during which time they are shaped by the action of weathering and erosion.
Common misconception
A mountain is any area of high land.
A mountain has different definitions. In the UK the height is taken to be land over 2000 ft or 610 m
Keywords
Tectonic plates - The huge pieces that Earth’s crust is broken into are known as tectonic plates.
Converge - Converge means two things move towards each other, such as when two tectonic plates come towards one another.
Mountain - A mountain is a natural raised part of Earth’s surface that is higher than a hill.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
Loading...
Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
are often not very wide and have a pointy top
are often quite block-like
are often rounded at their summit