The Atlantic barrier system is used as a focal point in this manual of field exercises. A collection of activities and posed questions provide students with opportunities to develop skills basic to the development of sound field techniques. Investigations can be adapted and modified by teachers to specific subject areas and developmental needs. Each exercise is formatted with an introductory statement, materials list, and procedural directives. Student activities include: (1) beach geomorphology; (2) tidal cycles; (3) littoral observations; (4) longshore currents; (5) sediments; (6) beach profiling; (7) core sampling; and (8) plant communities. This guide also contains a variety of diagrams, illustrations, and reference tables. (ML)