1. Environmental Studies Basking Ridge High School A Collaborative Case Based Learning Module Abridged Rip Currents The Introduction Martha Schoene Beach Management Consultant Faculty, Seton Hall University @2006

2. General Instructions This learning module on rip currents and beach erosion contains the following sections: 1.Introduction – The Challenge 2.Water Safety 3.Rip Current Formation 4.Beach Erosion 5.Wrap Up Your job is to read the story and make the best, informed decision on what you would do to solve the existing problem. We encourage you to discuss the options with your fellow classmates. Ready? Let’s Begin ………..

3. The Challenge … Imagine that you are standing by the shoreline knee deep in the surf. You are looking at the waves. You are thinking about going for a swim. All of a sudden a wave knocks two children playing nearby off their feet and pulls one of them rapidly out to sea. What should you do? View this video clip: Note: All videos (.rm files) in this learning module require free RealPlayer. You can option this software from http://www.realplayer.com.http://www.realplayer.com

4. What Should You Do? Quickly, what you think you should do? Go with your first instinct, supporting your answer with a reason for action or inaction. Use the worksheet provided at Save the worksheet to your computer and then open the.doc (Word document). Edit the appropriate area under Rip Current Preliminary plan.

5. Generating Ideas Are you sure your quick plan is the best? Let’s look closer at possible options by gathering more information ….. Links to articles, websites, video clips, interviews and images are provided in the unabridged version of this case

6. How Rip Currents Form Rip currents can form when erosion creates a low point or a break in a near shore sand bar. This break makes a channel for water to rush back into the sea. These rip currents are also commonly formed along the side of a jetty, pier or groin, where the long shore current may be diverted out to sea. Sandbar Jetty or Pier

7. List your options … (You may choose more than one option to make your initial plan) A list of options and more links are provided in the unabridged version of this case Record your choices under the Initial Plan area on your worksheet at: Give reasons for your choice based on the information you have gathered.

8. Let’s do some research and see if you need to revise your options. On to Part 2 – Water Safety Considerations The PowerPoints about Water Safety, Rip Current Formation and Beach Erosion are provided in the unabridged version of this case Next Step