Get your colouring pencils ready  Rivers and people Pg 10,11 L.O: To learn about the influence that rivers had on people and settlement. Get your colouring pencils ready 

Villages and rivers.. Why was it important for people to build their villages and or towns near rivers? The rivers were a form of protection; by creating a natural barrier from enemies. Water could be used by people and animals for drinking and growing crops. The soil by the river was extremely fertile and moist so crops grew well, while the fish from the river provided food. Rivers were also used as paths for transport, like roads are used today. Back then they didn’t have roads and used boats to transport people and goods.

From the earliest times settlements have developed by rivers, particularly at crossing points. This is reflected in place names. Examples include: Camelford - ford on the River Camel Cambridge - bridge on the River Cam

Settlement size There tends to be a pattern in the size of settlements by rivers Settlements are usually smaller near the source (where the valleys are narrower and steeper) and get bigger downstream (where the valleys are wider and gentler).

Old civilisations Old civilisation flourished near rivers, as they were a life line.

Habitats Rivers provide excellent habitat and food for many of the earth's organisms. Many rare plants and trees grow by rivers. Ducks, voles, otters and beavers make their homes on the river banks. Reeds and other plants like bulrushes grow along the river banks.

Other animals use the river for food and drink Other animals use the river for food and drink. Birds such as kingfishers eat small fish from the river. In Africa, animals such as antelopes, lions and elephants go to rivers for water to drink. Other animals such as bears catch fish from rivers.

Transport Rivers provide travel routes for exploration, commerce and recreation.

Farming River valleys and plains provide fertile soils. Farmers in dry regions irrigate their cropland using water carried by irrigation ditches from nearby rivers.

Energy Rivers are an important energy source. During the early industrial era, mills, shops, and factories were built near fast-flowing rivers where water could be used to power machines. Today steep rivers are still used to power hydroelectric plants and their water turbines.

Classwork/homework Pg11, questions 1 and 2. Draw a picture of a river in your book showing all the useful things we can do because of rivers. Label it. i.e. fishing, kayaking, water mill, animals drinking, boating, etc… Something like these..