This ACA Assessment Course is designed to evaluate your ability to perform all of the skills listed and demonstrate an appropriate level of paddling knowledge. This assessment course provides the opportunity for you to receive documentation of having achieved this level of paddling ability.
Note: The use of spray skirts is not appropriate for Level 1: Introduction to Kayaking courses.
One day (8 hours).
Flat water, protected from wind, waves and outside boat traffic, with current less than 0.5 knots and within swimming distance of shore.
5 Participants: 1 Instructor; with an additional qualified assistant, the ratio can be 10 : 2. The maximum number of participants permitted is 10.
This assessment course may be offered by Level 1: Introduction to Kayaking (or higher) ACA Instructors, Instructor Trainers, or Instructor Trainer Educators.
The sequence of assessment should be adjusted to best fit the participant’s needs, class location, time allowance, and kayak being used. Participants must be able to perform all strokes, maneuvers, rescues, and skills in the appropriate venue. In addition, the participant must demonstrate the appropriate level of knowledge for this level of skill assessment.
The use of spray skirts is not appropriate for Level 1 kayaking courses.
Participant Name: ________________________________
Participant ACA Membership #: __________________
Course Venue: _____________________________________
Course Date(s): ____________________________________
Y = Meets Standard, N = Below Standard, DNO = Did Not Observe
| Preparing to Depart | Pass? P/N/DNO |
|---|---|
| Make sure the kayak is securely fastened to the car or racks, using proper tie downs, straps, or knots | |
| Use proper techniques to safely lift and carry the kayak on shore | |
| Obtain (recite) weather conditions, forecasts, and evaluate hazards to navigation and other environmental factors | |
| Put on a life jacket appropriate for the operator’s size, kayak, and activity; confirm all others in the group are properly wearing their life jacket | |
| Inspect the kayak and all safety equipment to meet state, federal, and local requirements for the vessel and activity | |
| Recognize, describe and follow safe boating practices (behavior, substance abuse, on water and land etiquette, Leave No Trace ethics) | |
| Prepare kayak for departure, stowing gear securely, ensuring it is balanced | |
| Demonstrate knowledge of a float plan (components and filing) | |
| Hold the paddle in correct orientation and grip for effective paddling |
Comments:
| Maneuvers to be performed with appropriate and efficient strokes, while maintaining the trim and balance of the craft | Pass? P/N/DNO |
|---|---|
| Enter and launch the from shore in a controlled manner, checking for clear departure | |
| Propel the kayak forward in a straight line 15-20 kayak lengths | |
| Stop the kayak within two kayak lengths | |
| Move the kayak backwards 3-4 kayak lengths | |
| Move the kayak sideways 10 feet (3 meters) to each side | |
| Turn the kayak from a stationary position 180° to the right and left | |
| Turn the kayak while maintaining forward motion 90° to the right and left | |
| Propel the kayak in a figure of 8 course around markers 3-4 kayak lengths apart | |
| Tripping: experience paddling a day trip of at least a short duration (1 hour) and distance (1 mile/1.6 km) | |
| Arrive at destination point, checking for clear approach, and exit the kayak in a controlled and safe manner | |
| Secure the kayak and equipment before leaving unattended, with attention paid to environment and conditions |
Comments: