The State of Oregon 5th Grade Earth Science Standards state that students should be able to �identify causes of Earth surface changes. and identify effects of wind and water on Earth materials using appropriate models.�

In response to these standards and teacher requests, the EOT staff at the NEES Tsunami Research Facility developed a hands-on, inquiry-based beach erosion activity to integrate with existing classroom curricula such as the FOSS2 �Landforms� kit. The goal of the beach erosion activity is to increase student understanding of coastal process on landforms

Students use clipboards in a 95 qt. plastic tub filled with water and sand, to study beach changes in response to waves.

In addition to the Beach Erosion activity students take a laboratory tour. In the fall 2006 researchers used the Large Wave Flume to study sand dune erosion. Along with the small model Large Wave Flume students were introduced to beach erosion modeling at different scales. The reaction of both teachers and students was very positive.

To schedule a class tour please fill out the Tour Request Form