Convict Lake

High school (ages 12+)
Geography

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/convict-lake

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. How high is Convict Lake?Approximately 8,145 feet (2,483 meters)
2. What is Convict Lake known for?Striking turquoise water, abundant trout fisheries, dramatic mountain scenery, and historical significance
3. What is the location?Mono County, California, within the Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada
4. What is the scientific name (lake)?N/A (Natural feature)
5. Why does Convict Lake look so blue?The lake is very deep and has fine glacial silt in the water. That silt reflects sunlight and makes the water appear bright turquoise.
6. When did Convict Lake get its name?The lake was renamed Convict Lake after a violent shootout in 1871 when escaped convicts were found nearby. The event changed the lake's history and name.

Glacial Geomorphology: The study of landforms created by the action of glaciers.
Alpine Ecosystem: A natural community of plants and animals found at high altitudes above the tree line.
Batholith: A large body of igneous rock formed deep within the Earth's crust.
Extrajudicial Execution: The killing of a person by government authorities or vigilantes without due process of law.