Step 1: Understand settlement patterns. Settlement patterns describe the shape and arrangement of settlements.
Step 2: Define a linear pattern. A linear settlement pattern consists of houses and buildings arranged in a line. This pattern often develops along a transport route, such as a road, or a natural feature like a river or coastline, as access to the feature is important for all inhabitants.
Step 3: Apply the definition. A village settled along a river follows this pattern, as houses are built along the river banks.