💦 Waterfall
Exploring the wonder of a waterfall!
A Waterfall is a place where a river drops suddenly over a steep cliff.
🌍 What Is a Waterfall?
A waterfall is a place where a river or stream drops over a steep edge. The flowing water wears away soft rock at the bottom faster than the hard rock at the top, so the edge becomes steeper over time. Below the waterfall, the crashing water often digs out a deep pool, called a plunge pool.
🌟 Fun Facts about Waterfall
- Waterfalls form when flowing water tumbles over rocks that are harder to wear away than the rock below.
- Angel Falls in Venezuela is the tallest waterfall in the world.
- The crashing water of a waterfall creates a cool mist you can feel from far away.
- Rainbows often appear in the misty spray near a sunny waterfall.
🔎 Where to See a Waterfall
Famous waterfalls include Niagara Falls between the USA and Canada, Victoria Falls in Africa and Iguazu Falls in South America. Many parks have smaller waterfalls with safe walking trails. Stay behind the railings, because the rocks near a waterfall are slippery.
🧠 Quick Quiz!
What is a Waterfall?
🏫 Classroom Activity
Pour water off a small ledge into a bin and watch it splash, then have children draw a waterfall with a rainbow in the mist.
🏠 Homeschool Activity
Watch a video of a real waterfall together, like Angel Falls, and talk about how tall and powerful it looks.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do waterfalls form?
Water tumbles over rock that's harder than the rock below.
What is the tallest waterfall in the world?
Angel Falls in Venezuela.
Why does a waterfall feel misty from far away?
Crashing water creates a cool mist.
Why do rainbows appear near waterfalls?
In the misty spray on a sunny day.
What activities help kids learn about waterfalls?
Pouring water off a ledge, drawing a rainbow waterfall, watching a video, or coloring a printable worksheet.