To prepare for the case study, lecture material on coastal landforms and processes is presented. Particular attention is paid to barrier islands, such as the Outer Banks. During the lecture, typical coastal engineering structures, such as groins, breakwaters, and jetties, are introduced. The case study is introduced with a brief overview of North Carolina's coastal management laws, Figure Eight Island's geography, and the current controversy over whether to build a terminal groin. Students are then broken down into small groups and presented with two opposing editorials. The groups are instructed to try to come to consensus as to whether the terminal groin should be allowed or disallowed or to suggest a third alternative. After approximately 25 minutes, each group informally reports out to the rest of the class.