Here is a larger picture of Stage 1. This is not an aerial photograph, it is taken from the ground. On this photo it is easy to see the 'V' shaped valley. On the upper course of a river you will often find small waterfalls and rapids.   Although the River is small erosion will occur when the river is in flood. The water will cut a path across the land. The sand and small pebbles are moved by the stream. When there is very heavy rain the big rocks will move. This is called transportation.  By eroding the ground under it, the river is cutting a path across the land. The water will carry material with it. As the River grows, the transportation and deposition of this material will help to shape the landscape.