Coastal Erosion Mitigation Project: Design and test a model to protect a coastline from erosion using hard engineering techniques.
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Coastal Erosion Mitigation Project: Design and test a model to protect a coastline from erosion using hard engineering techniques.

Grade 10Geography3 days
★★★★★
5.0 (1 rating)
In this project, students design and test hard engineering solutions to protect coastlines from erosion. They build physical models, simulate wave action, measure sediment loss, and analyze the environmental impacts of their designs. Students then propose coastal defense strategies, considering both the effectiveness and ecological costs of their solutions, culminating in a presentation to a panel of experts.
Coastal ErosionHard EngineeringMitigationPhysical ModelEnvironmental ImpactWave Action
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design and test effective hard engineering solutions to protect a coastline from erosion, considering both their benefits and environmental impacts?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How do different hard engineering techniques protect coastlines from erosion?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of using hard engineering solutions for coastal erosion?
  • How can we design a physical model to simulate coastal erosion?
  • How can we test the effectiveness of different coastal defense structures in our model?
  • What factors influence the rate of coastal erosion?
  • How do waves interact with coastal structures?
  • How can we measure and compare the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies?
  • What are the environmental impacts of hard engineering solutions on coastal ecosystems?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will be able to design a physical model that simulates coastal erosion.
  • Students will be able to test the effectiveness of different coastal defense structures.
  • Students will be able to measure and compare the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies.
  • Students will be able to understand the environmental impacts of hard engineering solutions on coastal ecosystems.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Erosion Emergency!

A local news report (video) shows an accelerated erosion event threatening a familiar landmark. Students, acting as a rapid response team, receive an urgent call to evaluate the situation and propose immediate hard engineering interventions based on limited data, creating a sense of urgency and purpose.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Coastal Dynamics Investigator

Students begin by researching the mechanics of coastal erosion, focusing on wave dynamics, sediment transport, and the natural processes that contribute to erosion. They will create a detailed report outlining these factors.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the primary causes of coastal erosion, including wave action, tidal forces, and sediment composition.
2. Create diagrams illustrating wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics.
3. Write a report summarizing the findings, including definitions of key terms and visual aids.
4. Present the report to the class for peer review and feedback.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive report on coastal erosion processes, including diagrams and definitions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity introduces the fundamental concepts related to the factors influencing the rate of coastal erosion.
Activity 2

Model Coastline Architect

Students design a physical model representing a coastline susceptible to erosion. This includes selecting appropriate materials, defining the scale, and planning the integration of hard engineering solutions.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Choose a specific coastal area to model (can be real or hypothetical).
2. Determine the scale of the model and select appropriate materials (sand, gravel, water, etc.).
3. Design the basic coastline, including cliffs, beaches, and any existing natural features.
4. Plan the integration of at least three different hard engineering solutions into the model.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed design plan for a physical model of a coastline, including specifications for materials, scale, and integration of hard engineering solutions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity directly aligns with the learning goal of designing a physical model that simulates coastal erosion.
Activity 3

Erosion Mitigation Engineer

Students construct their physical model and implement the designed hard engineering solutions. They document the construction process, noting any challenges and modifications made during the building phase.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Gather the necessary materials and tools for constructing the physical model.
2. Build the basic coastline according to the design plan.
3. Implement the chosen hard engineering solutions (seawalls, groynes, breakwaters) into the model.
4. Document the construction process, including photos, sketches, and written notes on any modifications made.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA constructed physical model of a coastline with integrated hard engineering solutions, accompanied by documentation of the construction process.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity builds upon the previous one, focusing on the practical construction of the erosion model.
Activity 4

Wave Tank Tester

Students test the effectiveness of their hard engineering solutions by simulating wave action and observing the erosion patterns. They measure sediment loss, wave impact, and the overall stability of the coastline.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Set up a wave tank or similar apparatus to simulate wave action on the model coastline.
2. Run a series of controlled experiments, varying wave intensity and duration.
3. Measure sediment loss at different points along the coastline.
4. Observe and document the interaction of waves with the hard engineering structures.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityExperimental data on sediment loss, wave impact, and the effectiveness of different hard engineering solutions.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity focuses on testing the effectiveness of different coastal defense structures and measuring the impact of erosion.
Activity 5

Environmental Impact Assessor

Students assess the environmental impacts of the implemented hard engineering solutions, considering both positive and negative effects on coastal ecosystems. They analyze data collected during testing and research potential ecological consequences.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the potential environmental impacts of each hard engineering solution (e.g., habitat disruption, altered sediment flow).
2. Analyze the data collected during testing to identify any observable environmental effects.
3. Compare the benefits of erosion mitigation with the potential ecological costs.
4. Write a report assessing the overall environmental impact of the project.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive report assessing the environmental impacts of the implemented hard engineering solutions, including a cost-benefit analysis.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity directly addresses the understanding of environmental impacts of hard engineering solutions on coastal ecosystems.
Activity 6

Coastal Defense Strategy Proposal

Students compile their findings into a final project proposal, recommending the most effective hard engineering solutions for their chosen coastline. They justify their recommendations with data from their experiments and a thorough analysis of environmental impacts.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Review all data collected during the project, including sediment loss measurements, wave impact observations, and environmental impact assessments.
2. Synthesize the findings into a cohesive narrative, highlighting the most effective solutions and their potential drawbacks.
3. Write a formal project proposal, recommending specific hard engineering strategies for the chosen coastline.
4. Present the proposal to a panel of experts (teachers, guest speakers) for feedback and evaluation.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA final project proposal recommending specific hard engineering solutions, justified with experimental data and environmental impact assessments.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity synthesizes all learning goals, focusing on the ability to compare the effectiveness of different mitigation strategies and understand their environmental impacts.
Activity 7

Hard Engineering Handbook

Students will explore various hard engineering techniques used to combat coastal erosion, such as seawalls, groynes, and breakwaters. They will analyze the design, function, advantages, and disadvantages of each technique.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research different types of hard engineering solutions (seawalls, groynes, breakwaters, etc.).
2. Analyze case studies of successful and unsuccessful implementations of these techniques.
3. Create a comparative table outlining the advantages, disadvantages, and environmental impacts of each solution.
4. Write a handbook entry for each technique, detailing its design, function, and impact.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA handbook detailing various hard engineering techniques, including their design, function, advantages, disadvantages, and environmental impacts.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsThis activity addresses how different hard engineering techniques protect coastlines and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Coastal Erosion Mitigation Project Rubric

Category 1

Understanding of Coastal Dynamics

Demonstrates comprehension of key concepts related to coastal erosion, including wave dynamics, sediment transport, and influencing factors.
Criterion 1

Explanation of Erosion Processes

Clarity and accuracy in explaining the processes contributing to coastal erosion (wave action, tidal forces, sediment composition).

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides a comprehensive and insightful explanation of coastal erosion processes, demonstrating a deep understanding of wave dynamics, sediment transport, and their interactions. Includes accurate diagrams and precise definitions.

Proficient
3 Points

Provides a clear and accurate explanation of coastal erosion processes, covering wave dynamics, sediment transport, and their influencing factors. Includes relevant diagrams and definitions.

Developing
2 Points

Provides a basic explanation of coastal erosion processes, but may lack detail or accuracy in some areas. Diagrams and definitions may be incomplete or unclear.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to explain coastal erosion processes, demonstrating a limited understanding of wave dynamics, sediment transport, and influencing factors. Lacks clear diagrams and definitions.

Criterion 2

Diagrams and Visual Aids

Effectiveness and clarity of diagrams illustrating wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics.

Exemplary
4 Points

Creates highly detailed and accurate diagrams that effectively illustrate wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics, demonstrating a strong understanding of these concepts.

Proficient
3 Points

Creates clear and accurate diagrams that illustrate wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics.

Developing
2 Points

Creates diagrams that attempt to illustrate wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics, but may lack clarity or accuracy.

Beginning
1 Points

Diagrams are missing or do not accurately represent wave refraction, longshore drift, and sediment cell dynamics.

Category 2

Model Design and Construction

Effectiveness of the physical model design, integration of hard engineering solutions, and quality of construction.
Criterion 1

Model Design Plan

Clarity and detail in the design plan for the physical model, including specifications for materials, scale, and integration of hard engineering solutions.

Exemplary
4 Points

Develops a highly detailed and innovative model design plan that demonstrates a thorough understanding of scale, materials, and the integration of multiple hard engineering solutions. The plan is clearly presented and easy to follow.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops a detailed model design plan that specifies materials, scale, and the integration of hard engineering solutions. The plan is clear and well-organized.

Developing
2 Points

Develops a basic model design plan, but may lack detail or clarity in specifications for materials, scale, or the integration of hard engineering solutions.

Beginning
1 Points

Model design plan is incomplete or lacks essential specifications for materials, scale, and the integration of hard engineering solutions.

Criterion 2

Implementation of Hard Engineering Solutions

Quality and effectiveness of implementing hard engineering solutions (seawalls, groynes, breakwaters) into the model.

Exemplary
4 Points

Implements hard engineering solutions into the model with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, demonstrating a deep understanding of their design and function. Solutions are seamlessly integrated and highly effective.

Proficient
3 Points

Implements hard engineering solutions into the model effectively, demonstrating a good understanding of their design and function. Solutions are well-integrated.

Developing
2 Points

Implements hard engineering solutions into the model, but may lack precision or attention to detail. Solutions may not be fully integrated.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to implement hard engineering solutions into the model. Solutions are poorly constructed or ineffective.

Criterion 3

Documentation of Construction Process

Completeness and clarity of documentation (photos, sketches, written notes) detailing the model construction process and any modifications made.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides comprehensive and insightful documentation of the construction process, including detailed photos, sketches, and written notes that clearly explain any modifications made and the reasoning behind them. Documentation demonstrates a strong understanding of the challenges and solutions encountered during construction.

Proficient
3 Points

Provides complete and clear documentation of the construction process, including photos, sketches, and written notes on any modifications made.

Developing
2 Points

Provides partial documentation of the construction process, but may lack detail or clarity in photos, sketches, or written notes.

Beginning
1 Points

Documentation of the construction process is incomplete or missing.

Category 3

Experimental Testing and Data Analysis

Thoroughness of experimental testing, accuracy of data collection, and effectiveness of data analysis in determining the impact of erosion and performance of engineering solutions.
Criterion 1

Experimental Design and Execution

Effectiveness of the experimental setup in simulating wave action and the rigor in varying wave intensity and duration to test the model.

Exemplary
4 Points

Designs and executes a highly effective experiment that rigorously simulates wave action on the model coastline. Systematically varies wave intensity and duration, collecting comprehensive and reliable data. Demonstrates a deep understanding of experimental design principles.

Proficient
3 Points

Designs and executes an effective experiment that simulates wave action on the model coastline. Varies wave intensity and duration to test the model.

Developing
2 Points

Experimental setup and execution are basic, and may lack rigor in simulating wave action or varying wave intensity and duration.

Beginning
1 Points

Experimental setup is inadequate or poorly executed, failing to effectively simulate wave action on the model coastline.

Criterion 2

Data Collection and Measurement

Accuracy and consistency in measuring sediment loss and observing wave interaction with hard engineering structures.

Exemplary
4 Points

Collects highly accurate and consistent data on sediment loss at multiple points along the coastline, using precise measurement techniques. Provides detailed observations of wave interaction with hard engineering structures, noting subtle differences in performance. Data is meticulously organized and readily accessible.

Proficient
3 Points

Collects accurate and consistent data on sediment loss and observes wave interaction with hard engineering structures.

Developing
2 Points

Data collection is inconsistent or lacks accuracy in measuring sediment loss and observing wave interaction.

Beginning
1 Points

Data collection is incomplete or unreliable.

Criterion 3

Analysis of Results

Effectiveness in identifying trends, drawing conclusions, and comparing the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies based on the collected data.

Exemplary
4 Points

Conducts a sophisticated analysis of experimental data, identifying subtle trends and drawing insightful conclusions about the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies. Compares and contrasts the performance of various solutions with a high degree of nuance and accuracy. Provides clear and compelling evidence to support claims.

Proficient
3 Points

Analyzes experimental data to identify trends, draw conclusions, and compare the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies.

Developing
2 Points

Analysis of experimental data is superficial or lacks clear connections to the effectiveness of different erosion mitigation strategies.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to analyze experimental data or draw meaningful conclusions.

Category 4

Environmental Impact Assessment

Depth of research, analysis of collected data, and consideration of both positive and negative impacts of hard engineering solutions on coastal ecosystems.
Criterion 1

Research and Identification of Impacts

Completeness and accuracy in researching potential environmental impacts (habitat disruption, altered sediment flow).

Exemplary
4 Points

Conducts thorough and insightful research to identify a wide range of potential environmental impacts, including both short-term and long-term effects. Accurately describes the mechanisms by which hard engineering solutions can disrupt habitats and alter sediment flow. Demonstrates a deep understanding of ecological principles.

Proficient
3 Points

Researches and identifies potential environmental impacts, including habitat disruption and altered sediment flow.

Developing
2 Points

Research on environmental impacts is incomplete or lacks detail.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to adequately research or identify potential environmental impacts.

Criterion 2

Data Analysis and Environmental Effects

Effectiveness in analyzing data collected during testing to identify any observable environmental effects.

Exemplary
4 Points

Conducts a rigorous and insightful analysis of data collected during testing, identifying subtle and complex environmental effects. Demonstrates a deep understanding of the relationship between hard engineering solutions and coastal ecosystems.

Proficient
3 Points

Analyzes data collected during testing to identify any observable environmental effects.

Developing
2 Points

Analysis of data is superficial or fails to identify clear environmental effects.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to analyze data or identify environmental effects.

Criterion 3

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Depth and balance in comparing the benefits of erosion mitigation with the potential ecological costs.

Exemplary
4 Points

Conducts a comprehensive and nuanced cost-benefit analysis, carefully weighing the benefits of erosion mitigation against the potential ecological costs. Considers both quantitative and qualitative factors, providing a balanced and well-reasoned assessment. Demonstrates a deep understanding of ethical considerations.

Proficient
3 Points

Compares the benefits of erosion mitigation with the potential ecological costs.

Developing
2 Points

Cost-benefit analysis is superficial or lacks balance.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to conduct a meaningful cost-benefit analysis.

Category 5

Project Proposal and Communication

Clarity, organization, and persuasiveness of the final project proposal, including the justification of recommendations and quality of presentation.
Criterion 1

Clarity and Organization

Structure and coherence of the project proposal, making it easy to understand the recommended strategies and their justification.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents a project proposal that is exceptionally clear, concise, and well-organized. The structure is logical and easy to follow, with a seamless flow of information. The recommended strategies and their justification are presented in a compelling and persuasive manner.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents a clear and well-organized project proposal, making it easy to understand the recommended strategies and their justification.

Developing
2 Points

Project proposal lacks clarity or organization, making it difficult to understand the recommended strategies and their justification.

Beginning
1 Points

Project proposal is disorganized and incomprehensible.

Criterion 2

Justification of Recommendations

Use of experimental data and environmental impact assessments to support the proposed hard engineering solutions.

Exemplary
4 Points

Provides compelling and well-supported justification for the proposed hard engineering solutions, drawing directly from experimental data and environmental impact assessments. Demonstrates a deep understanding of the strengths and limitations of each solution. The rationale is clear, logical, and persuasive.

Proficient
3 Points

Uses experimental data and environmental impact assessments to support the proposed hard engineering solutions.

Developing
2 Points

Justification for the proposed solutions is weak or lacks sufficient evidence from experimental data and environmental impact assessments.

Beginning
1 Points

Fails to provide adequate justification for the proposed solutions.

Criterion 3

Presentation Quality

Effectiveness of the presentation in conveying key findings and recommendations to a panel of experts.

Exemplary
4 Points

Delivers a highly engaging and persuasive presentation that effectively conveys key findings and recommendations to a panel of experts. Demonstrates exceptional communication skills, including clear articulation, confident delivery, and effective use of visual aids. Responds thoughtfully and thoroughly to questions from the panel.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents key findings and recommendations clearly and effectively to a panel of experts.

Developing
2 Points

Presentation is unclear or fails to effectively convey key findings and recommendations.

Beginning
1 Points

Presentation is disorganized and difficult to understand.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

What was the most surprising thing you learned about coastal erosion or hard engineering solutions during this project?

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Question 2

Which hard engineering solution do you think is the most effective, and why? Support your answer with evidence from your model and research.

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Question 3

How did your understanding of the environmental impacts of hard engineering solutions change during this project?

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Question 4

If you could redesign your coastal erosion model, what changes would you make and why?

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Question 5

To what extent do you agree with the statement: 'Hard engineering solutions are the best way to protect coastlines from erosion'?

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