Coastal Spits: Formation and Features

Year 7 Geography UK National Curriculum Coastal Depositional Landforms

What is a Spit?

A narrow ridge of sand or shingle Extends from the coastline into the sea Connected to the mainland at one end Free end often curves into a hook shape Formed by coastal deposition

Longshore Drift Process

How Do Spits Form?

Longshore drift transports sediment along the coast Material is deposited where the coastline changes direction Often occurs at river mouths or bay entrances Sediment builds up over hundreds of years Continued deposition extends the spit seaward

Conditions Needed for Spit Formation

{"left":"Abundant supply of sediment\nSteady prevailing wind direction\nLongshore drift process active","right":"Change in coastline direction\nRelatively shallow water\nLimited wave energy at deposition site"}

Key Features of Spits

Recurved end (hook shape) Salt marsh in sheltered area behind Beach ridge along the seaward side Lagoon or mudflats in lee Dunes may develop on top

Label the Spit Features

Use your worksheet to label the main features Identify: Hook end, Salt marsh, Lagoon, Beach ridge Draw arrows showing longshore drift direction Mark the prevailing wind direction

UK Examples of Spits

Spurn Head, Yorkshire - 3.5km long Orford Ness, Suffolk - 15km long Hurst Castle Spit, Hampshire Dawlish Warren, Devon All show classic spit features

Quick Check Questions

What process transports sediment to form spits? Why do spits often have a curved end? Name two conditions needed for spit formation What type of environment forms behind a spit?

Summary: Coastal Spits

Spits are depositional landforms Formed by longshore drift over long periods Require specific conditions to develop Show distinctive features like hooks and salt marshes Important coastal environments in the UK