mountain definition for kid essay

Mountains cover one-fifth of the earth’s land surface, and occur in 75 percent of the world’s countries.

How are mountains formed?

Mountains are formed through varying causes, there are several distinct types of mountains. Click here to find out more

What is a mountain range?

Mountain ranges are long chains or groups of mountains. Ranges are usually 1,000 or more miles long.

The Rocky Mountains and the Himalayan Mountains are examples of mountain ranges.

What is a mountain system?

A group of mountain ranges is called a mountain system. For example, the mountain systems of the United States include the Rockies and the Appalachians.

How many people live on mountains?

Mountains are home to approximately one-tenth of the world’s people

Did you know?

More than half of the world’s fresh water originates in mountains, and all the world's major rivers are fed from mountain sources.

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Different Types of Mountains

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Whether you live near the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the Black Hills of South Dakota or the Tetons of Idaho and Wyoming, mountains make the world more beautiful and interesting. They’re fun to hike and they offer a haven for many animals and birds.

During war, people have often fled to the mountains for safety and refuge.These fascinating landforms have unique climates and support interesting plants and animals. Read on to learn more!

Fun Facts about Mountains for Kids

• Any land mass that rises 1,000 feet above the surrounding area is considered a mountain.
• Some mountains are caused by volcanoes spewing lava over and over again. The lava cools and hardens and builds up to form a mountain. The islands of Hawaii are actually volcanoes .

• Sometimes a volcano doesn’t erupt through the crust, but just sort of leaks lava underneath, pushing up a rounded area. This type of mountain is called a dome mountain. The Adirondacks in New York and the Black Hills in South Dakota are dome mountains.
• The summit or peak is the highest point of a mountain.
• A mountain range is a string of mountains near each other. The Rocky Mountain range is the second longest in the world. It stretches more than 3,000 miles from northern Canada through the Southwestern United States.
• Plateau mountains look like tall squares. Plateaus form when  tectonic plates collide with each other but don’t buckle the surface.
• Fault block mountains occur when the tectonic plates collide with each other and form cracks in the earth’s surface. Rocks are pushed upward when this happens. The Sierra Nevadas in California and Nevada, and the Tetons of Wyoming are fault block mountains.

So, what exactly are mountains and how are they made? Firstly, a mountain is a natural geological land formation that forms over millions of years. It is kind of like a hill, but much bigger. To be classified as a mountain, the land formation must be at least 2,000 feet (about 610 meters) high.

The highest mountain in the world is Mount Everest  at 29,029 feet tall. When mountains are formed next to each other, it is called a mountain range. Some of the most popular mountain ranges around the world include the Himalayas in Asia, the Andes in South America, and the Rocky Mountains in North America.

Mountains form over millions of years in several different ways. Some mountains form when volcanoes erupt over and over again. These types of mountains are called volcanoes, of course.

When lava beneath the earth’s crust builds up pressure, it erupts out of small vents in the crust. Sometimes these vents are at the bottom of the ocean, and sometimes they are in the middle of a landmass, like a continent. The islands of Hawai’i are all merely the tips of volcanoes that started under the  ocean .

When lava erupts, it cools and forms a rock layer. This happens over and over again over millions of years until finally the mountain becomes an island. This isn’t how all islands are formed, but there are many volcanic islands around the world.

Other mountains are formed when these enormous plates in the  earth’s crust  slam up against each other. They are called tectonic plates and they are kind of like 17 gigantic puzzle pieces that make up the crust.

They are always moving, but just very, very slowly. When two plates collide, or bump into each other, rock gets pushed up, and up, and up until a whole mountain is formed. These are called fold mountains and they don’t grow overnight. They take millions and millions of years of tectonic plates pushing against each other.

The Himalayan mountains began forming this way about 55 million years ago. This impressive mountain range in Southeast Asia has 30 of the  world’s tallest mountains , including Mount Everest!

When tectonic plates move, they aren’t always running into each other. Sometimes they are moving away from each other forming faults. This is how block mountains are formed. Basically, as these faults open up, some rock can be pushed up while others are pushed down.

Block mountains have a long slope on one side and a steep cliff on the other side. Again, because tectonic plates move so slowly, it takes millions of years for these mountains to form. Most mountain ranges are millions of years old.

The Sierra Nevada mountains in California and Nevada are block mountains that began forming about 40 million years ago.

Mountains are land formations that not only grow, but they also shrink over time. Plateaus are special mountains that are formed from rock and material being removed rather than rock being added.

They look a lot like sanded down mountains, and that is kind of what they really are. Wind, rain, rivers, snow, and glaciers can all slowly remove rock over millions of years. This is called erosion, and it happens everywhere in the world. The Catskill Mountains in southeastern New York are plateaus covered in lush green forests.

If you’re lucky enough to live near mountains, you probably know there’s something special about them. Towering majestically above the surrounding area, they provide shelter from stormy weather and play a major role in moving water into rivers and major waterways as the  snow  melts. They offer a sanctuary for animals and plants, and don’t forget the skiing!

Mountain Vocabulary

• Haven : safe, protected place
• Refuge : comfort, safety, protection
• Erupt : blow up
• Collision : when two things run into each other
• Majestic : awesome, large, grand
• Stormy : storm-like, rough
• Sanctuary : place of shelter, safety and peace
• Collide : run into
• Buckle : collapse, fold, break

Easy Science All About Mountains for Kids Video

Check out this video all about mountains:

A fun exploration video about mountains and how they are formed. Watch this video to learn more all about mountains!

Mountain Q&A

Do mountains affect the weather.

Mountains can slow down storms moving from one ocean to the other, causing rain to drop over them and the surrounding land. The other side of a mountain is usually drier because the rain clouds don’t quite make it that far. Mountains often have unique weather patterns themselves.

Are mountains dangerous?

Weather conditions change rapidly on mountain ranges. Lightning and rain storms are common in the summer and fierce snowstorms rise up quickly in the winter. The air is thin on tall mountains, making it hard to breathe. Always hike with someone who is experienced with mountains.

How high are mountains?

If you’ve ever gone hiking, you might have heard of “14-ers.” Many hikers set a goal of climbing a 14-er, which means climbing a mountain that reaches 14,000 feet high. At this height, the air is thin and thunderstorms are frequent.

You have to know what you’re doing and plan carefully. If you visit the Rocky Mountains, the Tetons, or the Sierra Mountains, you’ll find lots of tall mountains to climb.

But, the highest mountain peak in the world, Mt. Everest, stretches almost 30,000 feet into the air – over 5 ½ miles! Climbing to this height is downright dangerous and many people have died trying.

What Does A Mountain Look Like

A mountain is a large natural elevation of the earth’s surface that typically has a super distinct peak at the top. It can also have steep slopes and a rocky surface.

They can have different appearances depending on their location and the type of rock they are made of, but they are generally characterized by their height and steepness.

Some mountains may sport snow-capped peaks, while others may be densely forested. The Rocky Mountains, the Himalayas, and the Alps are all well-known mountain ranges.

What Are Mountains

Geological activities such as tectonic activity, erosion, and sedimentation all contribute to their formation. Mountains may be found on every continent and come in a vast range of sizes and forms.

Some mountains are single summits, while others form a range or chain. Mount Everest, with a height of 29,029 feet, is the tallest peak in the world (8,848 meters).

Mountains may provide a number of resources such as lumber, minerals, and freshwater, as well as being popular places for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing.

What Makes Mountains Unique

Mountains are unique due to their height and steepness. They are frequently higher and rougher than the surrounding environment, allowing them to stand out and be easily identified.

Mountains can also have unique geological features, such as distinctive rock formations and mineral deposits, as well as unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Some mountains are also well-known for their cultural and historical significance, since they have played a significant role in the lives of numerous societies throughout history. The Himalayas, for example, are regarded sacred in Hinduism and Buddhism, and the ancient Greeks thought that the gods dwelt on mountaintops.

Mountains may also have a significant influence on the temperature and weather patterns of the surrounding region. They are essential and intriguing natural features due to their distinct characteristics.

What Are 5 Facts About Mountains?

• Mountains are large natural elevations of the earth’s surface that typically have a distinct peak.
• Mountains are formed by a variety of geological processes, including tectonic activity, erosion, and sedimentation.
• The highest mountain in the world is Mount Everest, which has an elevation of 29,029 feet (8,848 meters).
• Mountains can provide a variety of resources, including timber, minerals, and fresh water.
• Mountains are popular destinations for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing.

How Are Mountains Formed For Kids

A range of geological processes contributes to the formation of mountains. When the earth’s tectonic plates meet and push against one another, the ground rises and forms a peak.

This might take millions of years. Mountains may also be generated by erosion, when water, ice, and wind erode away at the surface of the ground and create slopes and peaks.

Mountains can form as a result of sedimentation, which occurs when sand, rocks, and other elements are deposited on the earth’s surface and eventually form a mountain. These processes can combine to form a mountain over time.

What Are Mountains For

Mountains serve a variety of purposes and provide many benefits to the earth and its inhabitants. Some of the main purposes of mountains include:

• Providing resources: Mountains can provide valuable resources such as timber, minerals, and fresh water. These resources are important for human and animal populations in the surrounding areas.
• Supporting biodiversity: Mountains are home to a wide variety of plants and animals, and they provide important habitats for many species. This makes them important for the overall health of the earth’s ecosystems.
• Regulating climate and weather: Mountains can have a significant impact on the climate and weather patterns of the surrounding region. For example, they can affect air and water flow, which can influence precipitation and temperature.
• Providing recreational opportunities: Many people enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing in the mountains. This can provide important economic benefits to the surrounding communities.
• Serving as a source of inspiration and awe: Mountains are often considered to be beautiful and awe-inspiring, and they have played a significant role in many cultures throughout history. They continue to be important sources of inspiration and wonder.

What Are The Four Main Characteristics Of A Mountain

The four main characteristics of a mountain are its

• Distinct Peak
• Rocky Surface

Mountains are huge natural elevations of the earth’s surface that are higher and steeper than the surrounding area. They are distinguished by a distinct peak, which is the highest point on the mountain.

Mountains have rough surfaces made up of numerous types of rock and mineral deposits. These qualities make mountains clearly recognizable and separate them from other landforms.

Finally, mountains can form as a result of sedimentation, which occurs when sand, rocks, and other elements are deposited on the earth’s surface and eventually form a mountain. These processes can combine to form a mountain over time.

What Are Three Facts About The Mountain Region?

• The mountain region is a geographic area that is characterized by the presence of mountains. This region can be found on every continent and includes some of the world’s tallest and most famous mountain ranges, such as the Rocky Mountains, the Himalayas, and the Alps.
• The mountain region is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, many of which are adapted to the unique conditions of high elevations. For example, some species of birds and mammals have evolved to have larger lungs and hearts to help them breathe at high altitudes.
• The mountain region provides important resources, including timber, minerals, and fresh water. It is also an important source of hydroelectric power, as many mountain rivers are used to generate electricity. Additionally, the mountain region is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing.

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Mountain facts for kids

A mountain is a natural rise of the Earth 's surface that usually has a "summit" (or "top"). It is usually steeper and taller than a hill . Mountains are often thought of as being a hill of over 600 metres (about 2,000 feet).

Definition of a mountain

Fold mountains, block mountains, tallest mountains, images for kids.

• The highest point of a mountain is called the peak. A mountain's summit is the highest area an individual can reach. A mountain climber will not reach the peak of the mountain but can reach the summit.
• Britannica Student Encyclopedia says that the term "mountain' usually means a rise of over 2,000 feet (610 m)".
• Polytechnic Student Encyclopedia says that the term "mountain' usually means a rise of over 1,000 feet (610 m)".
• The standard height for a mountain in England is 600 metres. In England, it is important to have a legal height because people have the "Right to Roam" in mountains, but they do not have the same right to walk on someone-else's land.

There are three main types of mountains: volcanic , fold , and block. All three types are formed from plate tectonics : when portions of the Earth's crust move, crumple, and dive. Compressional forces, isostatic uplift and intrusion of igneous matter forces surface rock upward, creating a landform higher than the surrounding features. The height of the feature makes it either a hill or, if higher and steeper, a mountain. Major mountains tend to occur in long linear arcs, indicating tectonic plate boundaries and activity.

Volcanoes are formed when a plate is pushed below another plate , or at a mid-ocean ridge or hotspot . At a depth of around 100 km, melting occurs in rock above the slab (due to the addition of water), and forms magma that reaches the surface. When the magma reaches the surface, it often builds a volcanic mountain, such as a shield volcano or a stratovolcano . Examples of volcanoes include Mount Fuji in Japan and Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines. The magma does not have to reach the surface in order to create a mountain: magma that solidifies below ground can still form dome mountains, such as Navajo Mountain in the US.

Fold mountains occur when two plates collide: shortening occurs along thrust faults and the crust is overthickened. Since the less dense continental crust "floats" on the denser mantle rocks beneath, the weight of any crustal material forced upward to form hills, plateaus or mountains must be balanced by the buoyancy force of a much greater volume forced downward into the mantle. Thus the continental crust is normally much thicker under mountains, compared to lower lying areas. Rock can fold either symmetrically or asymmetrically. The upfolds are anticlines and the downfolds are synclines: in asymmetric folding there may also be recumbent and overturned folds. The Jura Mountains are an example of fold mountains.

Block mountains are caused by faults in the crust: a plane where rocks have moved past each other. When rocks on one side of a fault rise relative to the other, it can form a mountain. The uplifted blocks are block mountains or horsts. The intervening dropped blocks are termed graben: these can be small or form extensive rift valley systems. This form of landscape can be seen in East Africa , the Vosges , the Basin and Range Province of Western North America and the Rhine valley. These areas often occur when the regional stress is extensional and the crust is thinned.

During and following uplift, mountains are subjected to the agents of erosion (water, wind, ice, and gravity) which gradually wear the uplifted area down. Erosion causes the surface of mountains to be younger than the rocks that form the mountains themselves. Glacial processes produce characteristic landforms, such as pyramidal peaks, knife-edge arêtes, and bowl-shaped cirques that can contain lakes. Plateau mountains, such as the Catskills , are formed from the erosion of an uplifted plateau.

In earth science , erosion is the action of surface processes (such as water flow or wind ) that removes soil , rock , or dissolved material from one location on the Earth's crust , and then transport it away to another location (not to be confused with weathering which involves no movement). The particulate breakdown of rock or soil into clastic sediment is referred to as physical or mechanical erosion; this contrasts with chemical erosion, where soil or rock material is removed from an area by its dissolving into a solvent (typically water), followed by the flow away of that solution. Eroded sediment or solutes may be transported just a few millimeters, or for thousands of kilometers.

Climate in the mountains becomes colder at high elevations , due to an interaction between radiation and convection . Sunlight in the visible spectrum hits the ground and heats it. The ground then heats the air at the surface. If radiation were the only way to transfer heat from the ground to space, the greenhouse effect of gases in the atmosphere would keep the ground at roughly 333 K (60 °C; 140 °F), and the temperature would decay exponentially with height.

However, when air is hot, it tends to expand, which lowers its density. Thus, hot air tends to rise and transfer heat upward. This is the process of convection . Convection comes to equilibrium when a parcel of air at a given altitude has the same density as its surroundings. Air is a poor conductor of heat, so a parcel of air will rise and fall without exchanging heat. This is known as an adiabatic process , which has a characteristic pressure-temperature dependence. As the pressure gets lower, the temperature decreases. The rate of decrease of temperature with elevation is known as the adiabatic lapse rate, which is approximately 9.8 °C per kilometer (or 5.4 °F per 1000 feet) of altitude.

Note that the presence of water in the atmosphere complicates the process of convection. Water vapor contains latent heat of vaporization . As air rises and cools, it eventually becomes saturated and cannot hold its quantity of water vapor. The water vapor condenses (forming clouds ), and releases heat, which changes the lapse rate from the dry adiabatic lapse rate to the moist adiabatic lapse rate (5.5 °C per kilometer or 3 °F per 1000 feet) The actual lapse rate can vary by altitude and by location.

Therefore, moving up 100 meters on a mountain is roughly equivalent to moving 80 kilometers (45 miles or 0.75° of latitude ) towards the nearest pole. This relationship is only approximate, however, since local factors such as proximity to oceans (such as the Arctic Ocean ) can drastically modify the climate. As the altitude increases, the main form of precipitation becomes snow and the winds increase.

The effect of the climate on the ecology at an elevation can be largely captured through a combination of amount of precipitation, and the biotemperature, as described by Leslie Holdridge in 1947. Biotemperature is the mean temperature; all temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F) are considered to be 0 °C. When the temperature is below 0 °C, plants are dormant , so the exact temperature is unimportant. The peaks of mountains with permanent snow can have a biotemperature below 1.5 °C (34.7 °F).

The colder climate on mountains affects the plants and animals residing on mountains. A particular set of plants and animals tend to be adapted to a relatively narrow range of climate. Thus, ecosystems tend to lie along elevation bands of roughly constant climate. This is called altitudinal zonation. In regions with dry climates, the tendency of mountains to have higher precipitation as well as lower temperatures also provides for varying conditions, which enhances zonation.

Some plants and animals found in altitudinal zones tend to become isolated since the conditions above and below a particular zone will be inhospitable and thus constrain their movements or dispersal. These isolated ecological systems are known as sky islands .

Altitudinal zones tend to follow a typical pattern. At the highest elevations, trees cannot grow, and whatever life may be present will be of the alpine type, resembling tundra . Just below the tree line , one may find subalpine forests of needleleaf trees, which can withstand cold, dry conditions. Below that, montane forests grow. In the temperate portions of the earth, those forests tend to be needleleaf trees, while in the tropics, they can be broadleaf trees growing in a rain forest .

The height of a mountain is measured as distance above sea level .

The highest mountain in the Solar System is the Olympus Mons (27 km ) on Mars . The highest mountain in the world is Mount Everest (8,848m)which is in Nepal / Tibet in Asia .

The "tallest" mountain in the world is Mauna Loa , in Hawaii . The "height" of a mountain is measured from sea level, but the "tallness" of a mountain is measured from its base, even if under water. The highest mountain in North America is Mount McKinley (6,194m) in Alaska in the USA . The highest in South America is Aconcagua (6,962m) in Argentina . For Africa , it is Kilimanjaro (5,963m) of Tanzania . In Europe , the highest mountain is in Russia called Elbrus (5,633m). Antarctica 's highest mountain is Vinsin Massiff (5,140m). In Oceania , a mountain called Puncak Jaya (5,030m) is the highest there. This particular mountain is in Papua New Guinea / Indonesia .

Mount Everest , Earth's highest mountain

Mount Fuji , Japan 's highest mountain

Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania , Africa 's highest mountain

Peaks of Mount Kenya

Mount Elbrus , the highest mountain in Russia and Europe

Puncak Jaya in Indonesia , the highest mountain in Oceania

Pirin Mountain, Bulgaria , part of the fault-block Rila-Rhodope massif

Mount Siguniang, Sichuan , China

Mount Ararat in Turkey , as seen from Khor Virap, Armenia

The city of La Paz reaches up to 4,000 metres (13,000 ft) in elevation.

Mountaineers climbing in South Tyrol

Chimborazo , Ecuador . The point on Earth's surface farthest from its centre.

• This page was last modified on 16 October 2023, at 16:53. Suggest an edit .

Mountain Habitat

It can be a long climb to the top of a mountain, but once you’re there, you can see for miles. It’s like you’re standing on top of the world!

Making Mountains

Some mountains form when the big slabs of rock—called tectonic plates—that make up the Earth’s crust crash into each other. Over millions of years, the sheets of rock push up and over one another, creating the mountain. Others form when vents in the Earth’s surface erupt and spew lava out onto the ground. The lava piles up and cools. Over millions of years, the many layers of hard lava become a mountain.

Mountains are on every continent. The longest mountain range is over 40,000 miles long—and 90 percent is under the ocean! Called the Mid-Ocean Ridge, it wraps around the globe like the seams of a baseball. The longest aboveground mountain range is the Andes. Running along the entire west coast of South America through seven different countries—including Argentina , Chile , and Colombia —it’s 4,700 miles long.

Mount Everest, on the border of Nepal and China in Asia, is the highest mountain above sea level in the world. Towering at just over 29,000 feet it would take almost 5,000 grown men stacked on top of each other to reach that high.

Climate Control

From bottom to top, a mountain has several biomes of life. At the very bottom, foothills often have lush deciduous forests, meaning that the trees lose their leaves in winter. Higher up are coniferous forests with tall pines and other evergreen trees.

The farther up a mountain one climbs, the colder it gets—about one degree Fahrenheit cooler every 300 feet. This is usually where the 'tree line' ends, and the where plants become much smaller. Mosses and lichens grow low to the ground, and in the spring, alpine meadows in places such as the Rocky Mountains in western North America and the Alps in Europe come alive with wildflowers. The air also becomes thinner towards the top because oxygen molecules are more spread out, making it harder to breathe.

Most plants can’t thrive at the top of some superhigh mountains—such as Mount Everest and Mont Blanc in the Alps in Europe. There, all you have is just snow-covered rocks!

Extreme Animals

Mountains often have extreme climates, and the animals that live there have some amazing adaptations. For instance, the red panda in Asia’s Himalaya grows a thick coat. Some animals' fur is more than insulation. Living in the mountains of North America, snowshoe hares have snow-white coats that help them hide from mountain lions and other predators.

Grizzly bears and hoary marmots living in the mountains of North America survive the cold winters by hibernating—hiding out in dens and resting—to conserve energy when food is hard to find. When grizzly bears hibernate, their body temperature drops by about 12 degrees, and they take a breath only once about every 45 seconds. Other animals, like mountain goats and ibexes living in Europe's Alps, migrate to lower, warmer elevations during the winter. These animals have tough but flexible hooves to steady themselves when climbing up and down the rocky terrain looking for food.

Just like these animals, you can also have fun on a mountain—you’ll just need to figure out how to hike without hooves!

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• Essay On Mountain

Essay on Mountain

Mountains are very special places. For many, they are sacred; to most, they bring an uplifting of the spirit and refreshment; to a few, they bring fear. They are the home of many different people on every continent. They occur in all biogeographical regions of the world. They are treasuries of high biodiversity and rich in endemic species. Mountains tend to have different climate conditions and a variety of geological and physiographic features. They provide magnificent scenery and the qualities of remoteness and wilderness. This essay on mountains will help students understand the different types of mountain, their importance and how they attract tourists and young people for adventure activities. Students who want to improve their writing skills must have a look at the list of CBSE Essays and practise these essays on different topics.

500+ Words Essay on Mountain

India is a vast country with varied landforms. There are vast stretches of plain land, hilly regions, mountains and valleys. The land of India displays great physical variations, such as mountains, plains, deserts, plateaus and islands. Not only in India but in the entire world, mountains cover a significant portion of the land area, and their resources play an increasingly crucial role in the development.

Mountains and Their Types

Mountains are of different types and are known by their range. Many mountains consist of a series of parallel ranges extending over hundreds of kilometres. The Himalayas, the Andes and the Alps are mountain ranges of Asia, South America and Europe, respectively. Mountains vary in height and shape.

There are mainly three types of mountains:

• Fold Mountains: These are created where two or more of Earth’s tectonic plates are pushed together. Example: The Himalayan Mountains in India and the Alps in Europe. The Aravali range in India is one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.
• Block Mountains: These are created when large areas are broken and displaced vertically. Example: The Rhine valley and the Vosges mountain in Europe.
• Volcanic Mountains: These are formed due to volcanic activity. Example: Mt.Kilimanjaro in Africa and Mt.Fujiyama in Japan

Importance of Mountains

Mountains are very important for the ecosystem. They are a storehouse of water. Many rivers have their source in the glaciers in the mountains. With the help of these mountains, reservoirs are made, and the water is harnessed for the use of people. The water from the mountains is also used for irrigation. It is also used to generate hydroelectricity in hilly areas. Most of the area covered by mountains is green as a wide variety of flora and fauna is found here. So, these mountains provide fuel, shelter, fodder and other products like gum, raisins, etc. These mountains help in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Mountain as an Attraction for Tourist and Adventure Activities

Mountains are a very popular and attractive destination for tourists. Especially in summer, people like to go to hilly areas with their family and friends. They spend their vacation relaxing in the lapse of the mountain. The scenic beauty of mountains makes their eyes shine and refreshes their mind, which ultimately gives them peace. The mountains are also liked by young people. They like to come here and do adventure activities. Some of the popular activities are paragliding, river rafting, bicycling, trekking, hang gliding and skiing.

Mountains are a global heritage. So, it’s important that we conserve these mountains and the natural diversity of these mountain regions. Since these mountains have become the favourite destination for tourists, many people visit these places. Due to this, construction is increasing in these areas. The mountains are cut down to make roads and many other such activities. The result of that is landslides, soil erosion and change in the pattern of the monsoon. To avoid all these things, we must ensure that the development of the hilly area should be done in a sustainable manner. So it does not hamper the growth of nature.

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Curious Kids: how do mountains form?

Associate Professor, School of Geosciences, University of Sydney

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Patrice Rey receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

University of Sydney provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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This is an article from Curious Kids , a series for children. The Conversation is asking kids to send in questions they’d like an expert to answer. All questions are welcome – serious, weird or wacky! You might also like the podcast Imagine This , a co-production between ABC KIDS listen and The Conversation, based on Curious Kids.

How do mountains get made? - Astrid, age 6, Marrickville

Hello Astrid. You may not believe this but when I was about your age my teacher (Mr Rouve) explained to the class how mountains get made.

He took a sheet of paper and put it flat on the table. Then, he put the tips of his right and left hands’ fingers on each side of the flat sheet and slowly moved his hands toward each other. Try to do it and you will see that the middle part of the paper will lift off the table to form a nice fold.

My teacher explained that mountains form in a similar way, when flat layers of rocks are pushed toward each other they move upward forming tall mountains.

My teacher was really excited by a discovery made by geologists at that time, when I was a kid. These geologists had figured out that the surface of the Earth was, like a giant jigsaw puzzle, made of pieces. Those pieces, called “tectonic plates”, move and bump into each other.

This bumping creates earthquakes, which slowly push the ground surface upward to make mountains. It happens so slowly that, in fact, you are getting taller faster than mountains do, except mountains keep growing and growing and growing for many millions of years until they are so heavy they can no longer grow taller, only wider.

In fact, Australia and New Zealand are sitting on two different “tectonic plates” that move towards each other at the speed of a few centimetres per year. Where they bump into each other, the ground gets lifted to form the stunning New Zealand Alps, the top of which stands close to 4,000 metres. Can you imagine about 4,000 people as tall as you, standing straight up on each other shoulders? That’s how tall these mountains are.

Mountains also form when the Earth’s crust is pushed upward from underneath. At the same time the New Zealand Alps started to form, a large hot bubble of rocks raising from deep in the Earth, like a giant air balloon, was pushing upward the surface of the eastern part of Africa forming a 4,000 metre high plateau. This plateau split to form what is known as the East African Rift, a valley twice as long as the New Zealands Alps.

There are many mountains at the surface of the Earth. Some we can see, some we can’t because they are under the sea. If you could take a submarine and dive under the sea, for instance in the ocean in between Australia and Antarctica, you could visit a long mountain where the Australian and Antarctica tectonic plates move away from each other.

Thank you again for your fantastic question.

Read more: Curious Kids: What existed before the Big Bang? Did something have to be there to go boom?

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Facts and Information about Mountains for Children

What are Mountains?

How are mountains formed, where are mountains found, what are the types of mountains, what is meant by a mountain range, how is a mountain measured, what is mountain system, do people reside in the mountains, is it difficult to live in the mountains, which sports/games can be played in a mountain, other important facts about mountains for kids.

As soon as the holiday season begins, families start planning trips to distant locations. Many families prefer going to hill stations and up to the mountains to have a wonderful vacation by themselves. Children love being there since the view from mountaintops is breathtaking, and the lovely atmosphere filled with silence and greenery can be quite serene. It’s a different world out there for young kids, especially when our cities today are merely dense forests of concrete blocks with barely any sign of lush vegetation or animals around. Stoking the interest of your kid into how the mountains were formed, and telling the story of how Earth takes various shapes can get them excited for yet another trip and dive into their books or the Internet to look for more information.

For a kid, the environment definition of a mountain is something that is taller & steeper than a hill.

In proper terms, a mountain can be described to be a formation of land which rises above the surrounding area and has a specific point at its top, called the peak.

Most elevations that are taller than 600m are termed mountains. Anything that is smaller than a mountain is generally called a hill.

Some natural phenomena can result in the formation of mountains, both on land as well as under the sea. The entire process is quite complicated but can be broken down into some major aspects. The surface of the Earth is a combination of various land masses, called tectonic plates. These plates are moving all the time, and they also tend to collide with each other. The collision usually causes the land to fold between them, leading it to rise above the surface and form a mountain.

According to the other phenomena, mountains form in a completely different way. For example, the eruption of a volcano from under the Earth can cause a mountain to form. Similarly, the rocks and other sediments could assimilate together to create a small mountain, too.

Mountains are one of the largest naturally-occurring Earth structures that can be found in nearly every area of the globe. When compared by nations across the world, almost 75% of the countries have mountain ranges of their own. All the continents have their mountain ranges with some of the tallest peaks, as well as the oceans surrounding us, with expansive mountain ranges spreading far and wide below.

Since mountains are formed in various ways and due to a variety of natural phenomena, their structure and shape may vary. This enables the categorization of mountains. A few major ones are described below.

1. Dome Mountains

As mentioned earlier, an eruption of a volcano can also result in the formation of a mountain. In an eruption, the molten rock, also termed as magma, which is present under the Earth, is spewed outwards from the mouth of the volcano, or even emerges out of various cracks and splits surrounding it. The cold temperature of the atmosphere ends up cooling the magma, where it begins to solidify into a rock-like structure. Most of these magma structures assimilate in a dome-like shape, giving rise to dome mountains. At times, consistent erosion of mountain-tops by the wind makes the dome even more evident.

2. Plateau Mountains

Amongst various natural phenomena, erosion of land is the most frequent one. These can be the result of rain, water, rivers, wind, and so on. Any land masses that are formed either by the plates folding over each other or by volcanic eruptions undergo substantial erosion over the years. These can cause their peaks to flatten completely, making vast plains on the top. These land masses with flat peaks are called plateau mountains.

3. Fault Block Mountains

The surface of the Earth is not homogenous and continuous. Various cracks are present all over it which run for long distances, termed as faults. These faults tend to meet each other in specific locations, causing some amount of landmass to rise above, while the rest of it to enter the Earth’s surface. A stacking of such layers takes place over an extended period, forming fault block mountains. Since their formation process is so specific, the structure of such mountains is consistent across different regions. These mountains have a slope at the back region while the front part is extremely steep. The Sierra Nevada and Harz mountain ranges are famous fault block mountains.

4. Volcanic Mountains

These can be termed as the initial phase of most mountains which later take either the form of dome mountains or plateau mountains, depending on which part of the world they are located. Any time a volcanic eruption takes place, a lot of lava is spewed out of its mouth, along with magma. This lava continues to flow around the surface as long as it is hot and also pools up in certain areas. Later, as its temperature reduces and it cools down, the lava hardens to form a solid rocky structure, which is mixed with magma and volcanic rocks. This pretty much forms a volcanic mountain.

5. Fold Mountains

Some of the largest mountain ranges that are present on the planet are fold mountains. The process of their formation is the most common one, which also ends up causing their height to increase over time. The tectonic plates of the Earth are always moving around without our knowledge. Whenever these plates collide head-on, their combined force pushes the landmass tremendously, causing them to rise on both ends and form towering structures. The Himalayas, Andes, Alps, and many others are stunning examples of how massive fold mountains can turn out to be, and how powerful the tectonic forces of the Earth generally are.

The most straightforward definition of a mountain range for kids is a collection of mountains. These are usually a large group of mountains that tend to be quite close to each other and are usually caused by similar formation processes. On a general note, if a group of mountains runs for around 1500 kilometres or more, it is termed to be a mountain range. The Himalayan mountain range is one of the largest mountain ranges in the world.

Since the height of the mountain is what is used to define the tallest peak and numerous other parameters, there are multiple ways to establish the reference level against which a mountain’s height can be measured.

The most common method is to measure its height from the sea-level up to the peak. In certain mountains, the height is also measured from their exact base up to the peak, which can be different from the previous one. A highly accurate methodology applied to mountains above and below the sea is to measure the distance from the centre of the earth to the mountain’s peak.

Just like a group of mountains is termed to be a range, a collection of such ranges is called a mountain system. These contain numerous peaks and valleys, being a popular attraction for tourists and residents nearby.

It might seem surprising, but a lot of people live in the mountain ranges as well as pretty close to them. It has been surmised that nearly a tenth of the total population of the world resides within various mountain ranges.

While most of us enjoy a small holiday or a visit to the mountains, living there is a completely different experience. The percentage of oxygen is quite low, which can make it difficult to breathe. The soil may not always be fertile, and water tends to flow down the ranges. However, people can make a living by appealing to the tourists.

The height of the mountains has a great advantage for sports, allowing a large variety of them to be executed and enjoyed. Right from rock climbing to bungee jumping, as well as paragliding and snow-skiing, simple sports such as water rafting can be enjoyed in the gorges between the mountains, too.

Apart from the information presented above, that can provide a great foundation for your kids, here are some interesting facts related to mountains that can leave them surprised, too.

• Mount Everest is currently the highest peak in the world, and yet its height continues to grow each year.
• The temperatures on high mountains range from extreme heat to shuddering cold, causing the trees to be in the form of short shrubs.
• Just like Mount Everest is the highest peak on Earth, Mount Olympus is the highest peak in the Greek mythology.
• Amongst the tallest peaks in the entire world, the top 14 peaks are present in Asia, with most of them spread around the Himalayan mountain range.
• In the year 2005, a couple decided to get married atop a mountain peak, making their wedding the first of its kind.
• While we are only aware of mountains on the ground, there are expansive mountain ranges under the sea, with some peaks being taller than Everest.
• Mountains are present on other planets as well. Mars has one of the tallest peaks in our solar system, called Olympus Mons.
• Across the entire Earth, nearly 1/5th of its surface is covered with mountains of various types.
• Mountains are typically the largest source of fresh water on the planet. Every year the ice on the mountaintops melts to keep the rivers flowing.
• While more than 6000 people have reached the peak of Everest, there has also been a 13-year-old boy who has achieved the same feat.

Putting together some rocky mountain facts and information for kids can instil within children a sense of respect towards nature and natural habitats. Conservation of the environment is another aspect that children must be fully aware of. These facts can increase their interest in different aspects of Earth and its surroundings.

Also Read:  Earth Facts for Children

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Definition of mountain

Examples of mountain in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'mountain.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English montaine, monteine, mounteyne, borrowed from Anglo-French muntaine, monteigne, mountaigne "elevated region, mountain range, mountain" (also continental Old French, Middle French montagne ), going back to Vulgar Latin *montānea, from Latin mont-, mons "mountain, hill" + Vulgar Latin *-ānea, collective suffix, from neuter plural of Latin -āneus (from -ānus -an entry 2 + -eus -eous ) — more at mount entry 1

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing mountain

• acute mountain sickness
• American mountain ash
• Bernese mountain dog
• cat - a - mountain
• European mountain ash
• make a mountain out of a molehill
• mountain ash
• mountain bicycle
• mountain bike
• mountain biking
• mountain bluebird
• mountain chain
• mountain coati
• mountain cranberry
• mountain dew
• mountain goat
• mountain gorilla
• mountain laurel
• mountain lion
• mountain mahogany
• mountain man
• mountain sheep
• mountain sickness
• mountain time
• snow - on - the - mountain
• Welsh mountain pony

Dictionary Entries Near mountain

mountain accentor

Cite this Entry

“Mountain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mountain. Accessed 3 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of mountain, more from merriam-webster on mountain.

Nglish: Translation of mountain for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of mountain for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mountain

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A Lovely Day In The Mountains — a short story for English reading and speaking

Sophie and Robert are trekking high up in the mountains.

But their relationship is rocky to say the least.

While up high, all alone, something happens…

And Sophie could begin a brand new life.

This short story is part of a complete lesson plan with reading questions, vocabulary exercises and discussion questions.

Use this in your class today!

Check the link below and download the full lesson plan…

Table of Contents

Introduction

Does your country have beautiful mountains?

Is it a good idea for married couples to go trekking in the mountains?

What if they were in a strained relationship?

Should they still go trekking? Why/why not?

A Lovely Day In The Mountains

It was just a beautiful view. Sophie wanted to just stop and gaze at it for hours.

But then the sound of her husband Robert’s voice. Harsh and impatient.

“Sophie, come on.”

Robert stared back at his wife as she struggled up the narrow path.

She stopped at the tiny ledge. She took a breath and gazed out across the crests of mountains that surrounded them.

The view was simply magnificent.

“Can’t we just stay here for a minute?” said Sophie. “We could enjoy the view.”

“We have to keep moving,” he said. “We’ve got to get to the cabin by sundown. Or we’ll be in trouble.”

Robert curled his lip at the white tops of the mountain range. Like they were a hindrance to his plans.

“Just one minute, Robert,” said Sophie, keeping her voice in check. Not berating him, offering him a very subtle suggestion.

Robert took a deep breath and shook his head.

“Well, we could. But we were delayed back at that footbridge for a while.”

Sophie told herself not to react. Forced herself to keep quiet.

When he said we, he meant her. She had to beg him to just stay a while down at the bridge.

They had come all this way, but hardly had any time to just sit still for a moment and enjoy the view. To look at the beautiful mountains and flowing rivers.

To just gaze in awe at all this nature that surrounded them.

They were always in a rush. And it always seemed to be her that caused any delays or hold-ups.

In her mind, she harboured a constant feeling of guilt or shame.

Like it was her fault for anything that went wrong in their lives together.

Robert turned to face her from just up the pathway.

He smiled down at her. A tight smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

“When we get to the cabin, you can have a rest there,” he said.

And it was that. In the choice of words he used.

We — meaning it is a joint effort to get to the cabin.

But you — meaning you are the one that always needs to rest. You are the one that always causes delays.

“Okay,” said Sophie.

She didn’t want to argue. But she did want to clear all of this up. It was just that there never seemed to be the right time to talk about it.

It was like Robert knew when she was going to bring the subject up and then he would be the perfect, loving husband.

They continued hiking up the side of the mountain. For a small moment, Sophie lost herself in her thoughts. Drowned out Robert’s passive-aggressive jibes at her.

At the speed that she walked.

The way she walked.

The way she carried her backpack.

Even the colour of it.

Nothing was right for him.

He had a criticism for everything she did and said.

Over the years, it had chipped away at her. Made her doubt herself. Made her feel something different about herself whenever she looked in the mirror.

She loved Robert. But she hated him at the same time.

She thought this was normal. All part of married life.

But then, when she spoke to whatever remaining friends she had — Robert vetoed many of her old friends — she found that their husbands didn’t have the same effect on them as Robert did on her.

One friend told her how her husband always supported her in everything she did.

How she had joined a class to learn life drawing.

It turned out to be a terrible waste of time, the friend laughed. I am no artist. But my husband gave me full support and encouragement to try it out.

Sophie couldn’t understand that kind of relationship at all.

Robert gave her no encouragement for anything she wanted to do.

She had become a broken shell of her former self.

“What are you daydreaming about now?”

Up ahead, Robert was glaring back down at her.

Just because he was at a slightly different altitude didn’t change the fact that he was always looking down at her. There wasn’t much difference in their height, but he always managed to look down his nose at her.

Another way of belittling her.

Making her feel worthless.

Sophie caught up with him at the ledge where Robert now stood.

“Can we just —”

Robert rolled his eyes at her.

“Just what? Have another rest?”

Sophie tugged the straps of her backpack off her shoulders and let it fall to the floor.

“Well, we hardly stop anywhere. We hardly look at anything.”

Robert stared at her, his mouth curled in absolute contempt.

Then he waved vaguely at the range of mountains in front of them.

“Fine, fine. Do what you want.”

He unstrapped his own backpack and flung it to the ground.

“But you do realise that if we are stuck out here, on the mountain path, and the sun goes down, we will be traipsing about in near total darkness?”

Sophie forced herself to turn and look at him.

“We have plenty of time,” she said.

“Oh, do we?” said Robert. “Well then. Let’s just hang around here all day then. Let’s sit here for a couple of hours.”

He took three steps to the ledge.

“If that’s what Sophie wants to do, that’s what we will do.”

Sophie refused to rise to the bait.

“Look, Robert,” she said, nodding her head to the pristine white-topped mountains opposite. Below them, a huge ravine descended into a river that appeared to be miles below.

But Robert was in full swing now. She could see that there was no point in appeasing him at all.

“Yes, let’s look at the mountains,” he said. “That’s why we’re here, right? To do just what Sophie wants.”

He took another step closer to the ledge.

“Be careful,” said Sophie.

“Look at all the beautiful mountains —”

Robert took one more step. But he lost his footing. His foot slipped on the stones and pebbles and he went over the edge.

In one fell swoop, he disappeared and fell from Sophie’s view.

He made a final gasp — more of surprise than anything — and then he was gone.

And instantly, Sophie was overcome with a feeling of great relief.

“Oh no,” she said quietly to herself.

And smiled at the view.

Reading Comprehension Questions

Who are the main characters in the story?

Where does the story take place?

Describe the view that Sophie finds so beautiful in the mountains.

How does Robert react to Sophie’s desire to stop and enjoy the view?

Why does Robert want to reach the cabin by sundown?

What does Sophie observe about Robert’s use of the words “we” and “you” when talking about delays?

How does Sophie feel about the constant rush and lack of time to enjoy the scenery?

What effect has Robert’s criticism had on Sophie over the years?

How does Sophie feel about Robert’s lack of encouragement for her pursuits?

Compare Sophie’s relationship with Robert to her friend’s relationship with her husband.

Why does Sophie consider her former self a “broken shell”?

Describe Robert’s attitude towards Sophie when he looks down at her.

What is the significance of Sophie letting her backpack fall to the ground?

How does Robert react when Sophie suggests stopping for a break again?

Why does Sophie think they have plenty of time despite Robert’s concerns about darkness?

What is the setting as Robert loses his footing and falls over the edge?

How does Sophie react when Robert falls?

What is Sophie’s initial feeling when Robert disappears from view?

What is the final outcome of Robert’s fall from the ledge?

How does Sophie feel at the end of the story, and what does her smile signify?

Essential Vocabulary

Write down all the words and phrases in your vocabulary notebook. Look in your dictionary and find the meaning of each word. Write the definition next to each word.

Then make up your own sentences using each word or phrase.

For example:

Gaze — a steady intent look.

Drowned out — to overwhelm or obscure, usually by sound, making it difficult to hear or see properly.

Then write a sentence of your own that uses the new word or phrase correctly.

She couldn’t help but gaze in awe at the breathtaking beauty of the mountain landscape.

The noise from the construction site drowned out the peaceful sounds of nature.

Do this with all the vocabulary and, over time, this will help improve all your English skills — reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Discussion Questions

What do you think about the setting of the story? Can you imagine yourself in a similar situation in the mountains?

How would you describe Sophie and Robert’s relationship based on their interactions in the story?

What emotions do you think Sophie is experiencing throughout the story?

In your opinion, is Robert a supportive husband? Why or why not?

How does the author use the mountain setting to reflect the characters’ relationship dynamics?

Why do you think Sophie feels guilty or ashamed at various points in the story?

Can you relate to Sophie’s feelings of being rushed and criticized? Share a similar experience if you have one.

What do you think Sophie means when she says, “She loved Robert. But she hated him at the same time”?

Do you think it’s common for people in relationships to have conflicting feelings like Sophie’s? Why or why not?

Discuss the significance of the mountains in the story. How does the author use them as a metaphor?

How does Sophie’s perception of herself change throughout the story?

Why do you think Robert vetoed many of Sophie’s old friends? What impact might that have on their relationship?

Compare Sophie’s friend’s relationship with her husband to Sophie and Robert’s relationship. What differences do you notice?

Do you think Sophie’s reaction to Robert’s fall is surprising? Why or why not?

How does the story explore themes of control and power in relationships?

Analyse Robert’s behaviour towards Sophie. What does it reveal about his character?

How does the story portray the concept of compromise in a relationship?

If you were in Sophie’s position, would you have smiled at the view after Robert’s fall? Why or why not?

Discuss the role of nature in the story. How does it influence the characters and their decisions?

What do you think might happen next in Sophie’s life after the events of the story?

You can download the full lesson plan by clicking the link below!

You can also join my mailing list by clicking the link below. I will send you new guides, articles and lesson plans when I publish them.

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Home » Reading Strategies » Exploring Plot Mountain: What It Is and How to Use It

Exploring Plot Mountain: What It Is and How to Use It

Plot Mountain is a story structure tool for teachers and students. It can help students in their writing by visualizing the arch of a story. As teachers, we see many students find it hard to set up their stories. They often don’t know when to put in the most exciting part. Plot Mountain helps with this. It’s a simple and clear way to teach students how to write good stories from start to finish.

In this article, we will learn what Plot Mountain is and how it compares to Freytag’s Triangle. We’ll look at the good parts and not-so-good parts of using it, and common mistakes people make. We’ll also talk about how to make your own Plot Mountain for your story. Lastly, we will learn about different tips and tricks for teaching Plot Mountain .

Table of Contents

What is plot mountain, types of plot mountains, why use plot mountain, disadvantages of plot mountain, avoiding mistakes with plot mountain, creating a plot mountain, plot mountain template, plot mountain video tutorials, frequently asked questions, short summary.

• Plot Mountain is a story structure tool used to help writers organize their ideas.
• There are two kinds of Plot Mountain, Freytag’s Triangle, and an updated version. Each one has good parts and not-so-good parts, depending on the story you’re writing.
• Making a Plot Mountain means naming and showing parts of a story on a triangle picture. There are video lessons you can watch to help you do this.

Plot Mountain is a special diagram writers use to plan their stories. You might also hear it called a plot diagram or plot elements mountain. It’s a picture that shows how a story is put together. A Plot Mountain usually has five parts: the start, the part where things start to get more exciting, the most thrilling part, the part where things start to calm down, and the end.

The start, or “exposition,” is where the story begins. It introduces the characters, where they are, and what the problem is. The part where things start to get more exciting is called “rising action.” It is where the problem gets bigger, and the story gets more interesting. The most thrilling part, or “climax,” is the part of the story where the problem is the most serious.

After the climax is the “falling action,” where things start to get better. The end, or “resolution,” is where the problem is solved and the story wraps up.

Two types of Plot Mountains are Freytag’s Triangle and a newer version. Freytag’s Triangle was created by Gustav Freytag in the 1800s. It’s a triangle picture that shows a story in five parts. The beginning, the build-up, the most thrilling part, the wind-down, and the end as dissuced earlier.

One problem with Freytag’s Triangle is that it puts the most thrilling part in the middle . This can make the last part of the story less exciting. The newer Plot Mountain structure has a big exciting event at the end. It has six parts: the beginning, the start of the problem, the build-up, the most thrilling part, the wind-down, and the end.

The biggest difference between the new Plot Mountain and Freytag’s Triangle is where the most exciting part of the story happens. In the new version, it’s at the end of the story. In Freytag’s Triangle, it’s in the middle. So, if you’re writing a story that happens now, the new Plot Mountain might work better for you.

Plot Mountain is really helpful for both teachers and students. It offers a roadmap for writing a story, breaking it down into five to six clear sections.

This tool helps writers sort out their thoughts and craft a story that’s simple for readers to follow and enjoy. For students, it’s a visual way to understand how a story should progress. It helps them organize their thoughts and create a story that keeps attention.

Plus, Plot Mountain helps add excitement to the story. The build-up takes the reader to the most exciting part, making them want to read on to see what happens.

Plot Mountain’s strict structure can sometimes make it tough for some to write a story. It can be hard to balance hitting all the necessary story parts and creating a story that flows smoothly.

Plot Mountain is made for stories that go in a straight line, from start to finish. So, it can be hard to use for stories that jump around in time or place. Plot Mountain has a definite beginning, middle, and end. This can be tricky when your story doesn’t go in a straight line from start to finish.

This means if you want to write a story that doesn’t follow the usual structure, Plot Mountain might not be the best tool for you.

Common mistakes teachers make when teaching Plot Mountain:

1. Too much focus on structure . Don’t focus too much on the Plot Mountain shape. This may make students think all stories must be the same. Remind them that stories can be different and creative.

2. Not enough examples. Plot Mountain can be better understood when teachers use more examples. Use examples from various types of stories and genres. This will show how the structure applies in different situations.

3. Going too fast. If you don’t give enough time for students to learn each part of Plot Mountain, it can be confusing. Go slow and make sure they understand.

4. Forgetting characters. While teaching about the plot, don’t forget to talk about how characters change in a story. This helps make stories more interesting.

5. Over-simplifying stories. Some stories are more complex and don’t fit Plot Mountain perfectly. Teachers should explain that stories can have different styles and shapes.

To make your own Plot Mountain, follow these steps. Keep in mind the importance of organizing the story. Labeling its parts, and adjusting the mountain shape to build tension throughout the plot.

First, begin by drawing a triangle shape, which will represent the mountain. This is the visual guide that will illustrate the progression of your story.

Now, divide the triangle into five parts as disussed before. Each part represent one key story element- exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution.

Label each part on your mountain accordingly:

Exposition:

This is where you introduce the setting, characters, and background information at the base of the mountain.

Rising Action:

In this segment, you will detail the events and conflicts that lead up to the climax of the story. The rising action should make the climb up the mountain steeper, indicating the buildup of tension.

This is the peak of your mountain, signifying the most exciting and intense moment of your story. Ensure that the top point of the triangle is higher to emphasize the importance of this turning point.

Falling Action:

As the story unfolds after the climax, the plot moves towards resolution. The descent of the mountain should be longer, representing the post-climax events and a gradual release of tension.

Resolution:

This is the base of the mountain on the opposite side, where the story’s main conflict is resolved, and loose ends are tied up.

Using these steps to create a Plot Mountain helps you visually organize your story. Let’s see how it can apply to an actual story. The following is an example of how using Cinderella.

Applying a Story to Your Plot Mountain

To apply a specific story to your Plot Mountain, you will of course need to identify the key elements of the narrative and map them onto your mountain. Here’s how you can do this using a well-known story, “Three Little Pigs,” as an example:

1. Exposition: At the mountain’s bottom, write the beginning parts. These would include items such as the place (countryside), characters (three little pigs, big bad wolf), and background (pigs leave home to build their own houses).

2. Rising Action: In this part, list events leading up to the story’s high point. In “The Three Little Pigs,” this has the first pig building a straw house, the second one building a stick house, and the wolf appearing and blowing down the first two houses.

3. Climax: Find and write the most thrilling part of the “The Three Little Pigs.” The climax is when the wolf tries to blow down the third pig’s brick house but fails, showing the pig’s cleverness and preparedness.

4. Falling Action: Note events happening after the high point in the story towards resolution. In “The Three Little Pigs,” this includes the wolf attempting to enter the brick house through the chimney, leading to his downfall.

5. Resolution: At the mountain’s other bottom, write the story’s end. In “The Three Little Pigs,” this is when the wolf falls into the chimney, lands in a pot of boiling water

A plot mountain template is a useful visual aid to plan a story. It’s a diagram that shows the story’s ups and downs from start to climax and ending. You can find many plot mountain templates for free online.

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Elevate foundational math skills with the Fact Family Number Bond Work Mats. Tailored for first and second graders, this resource emphasizes the vital connection between number bonds and fact families. The color-coded design ensures an efficient learning experience, catering to each student’s level. With 4 printable pages, these mats are versatile, extending their utility beyond traditional math classrooms and into various subjects.

Number Bond Flash Cards by Easy Peasy Resources

Strengthen number bond proficiency with these flash cards tailored for number sets 5-10. Simple yet effective, these cards provide students with a practical way to practice their number bonds. Ideal for math tubs or practice centers, these cards are a must-have for educators aiming to reinforce foundational math concepts in a fun and engaging manner.

This template is flexible and can be used for any story genre or style. You can adjust it to show your story’s settings, characters, and other important parts. It also helps you build excitement, suspense, and emotions in your story. It’s a great way to organize your plot and make sure everything fits well. You can even watch tutorials to learn how to use it better.

Just fill it with your story details and read it to understand how your story goes and your character grows. It’s also great for making sure everything is in the right place for a good ending.

Plot mountain video lessons are a great way to learn story structure and plot basics. These lessons teach the idea of a plot mountain in an easy-to-understand format. Students can learn the different parts of a story arc by watching these videos. They also learn about the role of events, characters, and settings in building a plot mountain. To get the most from these lessons, watch them, take notes, and use the provided plot mountain template to reach your goal.

These video lessons are perfect for anyone wanting to teach plot mountain. They give a clear introduction to plotting and help students remember key story parts and structure. You can also use these videos to improve your own knowledge. Brush up on structure and understand how to make a story that interests readers.

To conclude. Plot Mountain helps prevent plot holes and makes a story more engaging by dividing the plot into five parts. This is especially helpful for new writers. The visual representation helps them understand the story’s tension and suspense.

There are two main plot triangle types: Freytag’s Triangle and a new plot mountian. Choose whichever works best for your story. Be sure to avoid common mistakes like too much exposition with little action.

To make writing easier, you can find helpful plot mountain video lessons and a template page above. With this tool, you’ll be on the path to crafting a great story arc!

What are the 5 parts of the plot mountain?

Plot mountain has five essential components – these are the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. This narrative structure provides readers with a clear beginning, middle and end, ensuring each story is both engaging and satisfying.

By breaking a story into these five components, readers can easily follow the plot and understand the story’s progression. This structure also helps writers to create a story that is both interesting and satisfying. It allows it to allow it to be used with ease.

What is the exact plot mountain order?

The plot mountain follows a clear structure, starting with the exposition, moving onto rising action, then climax, followed by falling action and resolving with a conclusion.

This structure helps to keep the reader engaged as the story progresses to its exciting climax before resolving.

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Last Updated on July 17, 2023 by Teach Simple