CAMP EMERALD BAY

Merit Badges and Awards

A Complete Guide to the classes you can take at
Camp Emerald Bay
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABOUT THIS BOOK PG. 3
AQUATICS PG. 4
CANOEING, LIFESAVING, KAYAKING, PG. 5
MOTORBOATING, ROWING PG. 5
SMALL BOAT SAILING, SWIMMING PG. 5
SHOOTING SPORTS PG. 6
ARCHERY, RIFLE SHOOTING PG. 6
SHOTGUN SHOOTING PG. 6
HANDICRAFT PG. 7
ART, BASKETRY, LEATHERWORKING PG. 7
POTTERY, WOODCARVING PG. 7
MARINE SCIENCE PG. 8
OCEANAGRAPHY PG. 8
NATURE PG. 9
ASTRONOMY, ENERGY, PG. 9
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE, PG. 9
FISH & WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, PG. 9
GEOLOGY, MAMUAL STUDIES, PG. 9
NATURE, SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION PG. 10
BIRD STUDY PG. 10
SCOUTCRAFT PG. 11
CAMPING, ORIENTEERING, GEOCACHING PG. 11
PIONEERING, WILDERNESS SURVIVAL PG. 11
SCUBA DIVING PG. 12
ADDITIONAL AWARDS PG. 13
BSA LIFEGUARD, SNORKELING BSA, PG. 13
MILE SWIM BSA, PG. 13
NRA QUALIFICATION, BSA AQUARIST, PG. 14
BSA OCEANOGRAPHER, BSA NATURALIST PG. 14
FIRST YEAR RANK ADVANCEMENT PG. 14
BSA STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING, PG. 15
SCUBA BSA, DISCOVER LOCAL DIVING PG. 15

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 ABOUT THIS BOOK
This guide contains information about the merit badges and awards that Scouts may
earn at Camp Emerald Bay. All non-merit badge awards also offered to adults are in
part 2 of this guide on page 13. Please read carefully to ensure that all prerequisites are
met before coming to camp. Additional program information may be found in the
Leader’s Guide and the Spring Leader Packet.

Each of our merit badges has been categorized into a

difficulty level to better prepare you for our
programming. We strongly encourage Scouts to
adhere to these recommendations.

Level 1: Scouts of any age.

Level 2: Scouts age 12 and above, or Second Class.
Level 3a: Scouts age 13 and above, or who have
developed good study skills including report writing.
Level 3b: Scouts age 13 and above, or who have
developed the strength and coordination usually
associated with 13 year olds.
Level 4: Scouts age 14 and above, or who have
developed the strength, coordination, and study skills
associated with 14 year olds or have substantial
experience.

We hope this guide is helpful to all Scouts and Scouters as you decide how you will
spend your week at Emerald Bay. If you have any questions or desire additional
information about our programming, please contact Patrick Roque, Program Director at
[email protected].

PLEASE NOTE: The prerequisite sign-off form is available in the Spring Leader
Packet, as well as the Purser’s Office at Camp Emerald Bay. If these forms are not
completed and turned in to your merit badge instructor at camp, you will be awarded a
partial for the requirements you have completed and will need to contact a merit badge
counselor in your area to sign off on the completion.

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 MERIT BADGES
AQUATICS PG. 4
SHOOTING SPORTS PG. 6
HANDICRAFT PG. 7
MARINE SCIENCE PG. 8
NATURE PG. 9
SCOUTCRAFT PG. 11
SCUBA DIVING PG. 12

AQUATICS
All Scouts and Scouters must complete the swimming ability test
on Sunday Afternoon. For those that do not complete the test at
this time, we invite you to visit the Waterfront during open hours
and retest at any time throughout the week. Scouts and Scouters
will not be allowed to participate in aquatic activities until they
take this swimming test.
Non-swimmer: Does not meet beginner qualifications. Water
play is permitted in the shallow end of the swim area only. May
ride in motorboat with a buddy who has passed the swim test.
Non-swimmers are prohibited from riding in any other water
vessels (e.g.: canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, rowboat, and sailboat).
Beginner: To qualify as a beginner, you will be asked to jump
feet first into water over the head in depth, level off, swim 25 feet
on the surface, stop, turn sharply, resume swimming as before, and return to the starting place.
Beginners are limited to canoes and motorboats and require a buddy who has passed the swim test.
Beginners who want to participate in War Canoe must be in a boat with a trained BSA Guard.
Swimmer: To qualify as a swimmer, you will be asked to enter the water as above. Swim 75 yards in
a strong manner using one or more of the following strokes: side stroke, breaststroke, trudge, or
crawl (doggy paddle is not acceptable); then swim 25 yards using an easy resting back stroke. The
100 yards must be completed continuously and include at least one sharp turn. After completing the
swim, rest by floating. Swimmers are allowed full access to all aquatic activities, at the Aquatic
Director’s discretion.

We recommend attendees to familiarize themselves with the Swimming section of their Boy Scout
Handbooks before coming to camp. Patrols and troops that discuss Safety Afloat and Safe Swim
Defense prior to coming to camp are more likely to have a safe and fun time on the Waterfront.
The aquatics staff will hold a safety demonstration on Sunday for the entire camp and will also offer
a Safe Swim Defense and Safety Afloat certification course for adults throughout the week.

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 AQUATICS (continued)
Canoeing (Level 1) - Gliding over crystal waters in one of our two-person
canoes is afavorite of many Scouts and Scouters who attend Emerald Bay. We will
provide you with all the necessary instruction. Swimming merit badge is
recommended. You will also needa swimsuit, towel, and long shirt.
Lifesaving (Level 3b) - Very few Scouts show up to the Lifesaving merit
badge thinking they can save a life, but through the class all gain the skills needed
to respond to a water emergency. Emerald Bay has a long history of training
Scouts in Lifesaving, and we are very proud of the program. After completing the
Lifesaving merit badge, you will be prepared to do what it takes to save a life in a
water emergency while at the same time earning one of the many badges required
for your Eagle rank. You will need a swimsuit, towel, long- pants, and long-sleeve
shirt.
Kayaking (Level 2) - Learn to tread through various waters in the perfect
one-person vessel. During the class you will learn not only about the different
techniques in paddling a kayak but also about the boat too. You will travel through
the emerald waters of our bay with your class. We will provide you with all the
necessary instruction. Swimming merit badge is recommended.

Motorboating (Level 3a) - You can be the captain of one of our top-notch
vessels! Learn how to control a motorboat and cruise around the bay with your
buddy. You must pass the BSA swim test to be eligible. Non-swimmers may ride
as a passenger with an adult and buddy swimmer. Participants are recommended
to have earned the Swimming and Lifesaving badges, as well as Rowing OR
Canoeing.
Rowing (Level 2) - Rowing has transformed from a basic style of water
transportation into a high endurance, competitive sport. Learn how to partake
and earn a fun merit badge at the same time! You will also need a swimsuit, towel,
and long shirt.
Small Boat Sailing (Level 3b) - With the great wind of the afternoon
Scouts will be thrilled to go sailing on the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Participants are recommended to have earned the Swimming and Lifesaving
badges, as well as Rowing OR Canoeing. An additional swim check is required to
ensure the safety of all participants. Scouts will need to be able to swim 400 yards
and pull themselves into a sailboat unaided while wearing a PFD. Failure to pass
this swim check will result in the Scout not being able to take the class. This class
meets for two sessions each day.
Swimming (Level 1) - Swimming merit badge is an essential merit badge for
Emerald Bay. Many of the merit badge opportunities are restricted to Scouts who
do not already have it, not to mention it is one of the many required for your
Eagle rank. Our staff is happy and willing to work with Scouts requiring
additional help and take pride in teaching beginners to swim.

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 SHOOTING SPORTS
Safety First!
Before participating in either the Shotgun or Rifle
merit badges, all minors are required to turn in a
Parental Consent form, found on the FORMS
AND PACKETS PAGE online. If parent does not
allow their Scouts permission to shoot, we ask that
they write “No Permission” across the face of the
Parental Consent form.

PLEASE NOTE: Personal firearms, ammunition, and/ or bows and arrows

are strictly prohibited at the camp. No exceptions will be made.

All three of our shooting sports merit badges challenge scouts to be focused and mentally awake.
Many areas at camp are bustling with activity; however, our Shooting Sports programs require all
participants to be disciplined, a skill that can be difficult for even older Scouts. Exceptional
instruction allows Scouts to come away from the program having seen a clear and marked
improvement in their understanding of firearms safety and skill level.
Archery (Level 4) - This merit badge is one of the toughest at camp, as it
requires both physical and mental control. We expect that many of the participants
will need to spend free time outside of class practicing on the range. We
recommend that all participants be at least 14 years of age or meet the physical and
mental capacity of the average 14-year-old.
Rifle Shooting (Level 4) - Improve your skills as a marksman! Safety and
focus are the number one priorities of this merit badge. Be prepared to follow
directions, and the strict fundamentals of rifle shooting will follow. Extra time may
be required during free sessions for qualification practice. Age 14 and up are
recommended and a $15.00 fee is required to be paid on Doubleknot due to
ammunition fees.
Shotgun Shooting (Level 4) - Guns are an integral part of our culture and
they must be treated safely and with respect. This teaching point is a number one
priority of our Shotgun program. Shotgun shooting is challenging on many more
levels than rifle and will test more skills. Age 14 and up strongly recommended, and
a $25.00 fee is required to be paid on Doubleknot due to ammunition fees.

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 HANDICRAFT
The Handicraft area is always popular with Scouts and
adults alike. This is the one area of camp that offers the
opportunity to create something lasting to take home
and remember your trip by. Adults and Scouts are
always welcome to come by the Handicraft area to
work on a project outside the confines of a merit badge
program, and the staff is always happy to help.

Art (Level 1) - Many people have the preconceived notion that Art merit
badge can be earned in less than a day; however, this is not the case at Emerald
Bay. At Emerald Bay you can replicate the beautiful landscapes and unique
wildlife through various forms of visual art. As part of your requirements, you
will also design your very own comic strip based on your Scouting adventures.
Basketry (Level 1) - Explore one of man’s oldest skills and produce your
very own basket to take home at the end of your week. The art of basket
weaving is a unique skill and can be mastered with the help of our Handicraft
staff. Approximately $12 - $16 will be needed for projects, available for purchase
in the Ship’s Store.
Leatherwork (Level 1) - From belts to bags, wallets to watch bands,
leatherwork offers scouts the opportunity to be creative and produce something
that will last for years. A wide variety of projects are available to work on and
Scouts are encouraged to try their hand at as many as they want. Approximately
$14 - $25 will be needed for projects, available for purchase in the Ship’s Store.

Pottery (Level 1) - Our pottery master will teach Scouts the basics of press
pots, hand molding, and throwing on the wheel. Scouts will also glaze and fire
their pottery in one of our state-of-the-art skills. This merit badge is popular
and often fills up quickly, so we suggest you sign up early! Approximately $15 -
$25 will be needed for projects, available for purchase in the Ship’s Store.
Woodcarving (Level 1) - The most popular of the Handicraft merit badges,
Woodcarving offers Scouts a chance to whittle, sand, and chisel their way to a
neckerchief slide or other project. If you don’t have your Totin’ Chip already, not
to worry! You can earn it at Emerald Bay with one of our experienced staff
members. Woodcarving can be a challenging merit badge and Scouts should
expect to take the week to complete it. Approximately $5- $15 will be needed for projects,
available for purchase in the Ship’s Store.

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 MARINE SCIENCE
The Pennington Marine Science Center
(PMSC) opened in the spring of 2004. Since
then, our resident marine biologist and the rest
aquarium staff have striven to educate, inspire,
and help Scouts and Scouters of all ages. We
work to build a foundation of conservation,
stewardship, and understanding of the marine
life by exposing all guests to the underwater
habitat of Catalina Island. The center is the
largest aquarium on the Catalina Island and
displays as many as 200 species of vertebrates
and invertebrates from the local aquatic
ecosystem. Many are rare, and some you can
actually touch! The PMSC offers a variety of
classes for a number of interests. If you are
unable to take one of our structured programs,
be sure to stop by during one of our open
tours.

Oceanography (Level 3a) - If there is anything we are known for it is our water!
Scouts will leave this class with a greater understanding and appreciation
of the ocean. This merit badge curriculum is equivalent to that of a
ninth-grade class and should only be taken if Scouts plan to put in the
hard work to complete the course. An exam and written essay will be due
by the end of the week. Age 14 and older strongly recommended.

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 NATURE
The Nature merit badges’ outdoor classroom settings provide opportunities for our program to
differ from most other environmental education courses. Our continuous and innovative
attempts to bring our classrooms alive allow us to show you all the amazing benefits our
ecoystem has to offer. While some of the classes require tests or essays, we have designed our
lesson plans to incorporate more hands-on experiments and activities.

Astronomy (Level 3a) - Star gazing is much more exciting when the billions of
gas forms are reflected in crystal waters below. After a daytime class learning about
black holes, cosmoses, and moon cycles, witness the wonder yourself though one of
our state-of-the-art telescopes on a peak overlooking the ocean. You will be required
to attend at least one of our two star hikes during the week.
Energy (Level 2) - Ever wonder how a nuclear reactor works or how a solar panel
can make your cellphone work? Not only will you out figure these things and more
in our Energy merit badge class, but you will be able to build your own conversion
device inour Eco-Classroom! You will be required to have requirement 4 completed
prior to arrival.
Environmental Science (Level 3a) - Environmental Science is a hands-on way
to learn about the changes to our environment. It is also one of the many merit
badges required to attain your Eagle rank. Environmental Science is a difficult merit
badge to earn and should only be taken if Scouts are ready to put in the hard work
and studies required.
Fish and Wildlife Management (Level 3a) - Fish and Wildlife Manager try
to strike a balance with the needs of the other species that share the planet with us.
Mainly, they observe wildlife, identify problems in different communities, and come
up with solutions to those problems. If you are good at solving problems, then
challenge yourself with this merit badge.
Geology (Level 2) - Geology Rocks! This badge is good for Scouts of any age.
Hike over to our dried-up waterfall near Parsons Beach and explore the boulders that
surround you. Home to snakes, lizards, and other reptiles, our geological locations
are more exciting than you may think.
Mammal Study (Level 1) - Did you know the Catalina Island Fox is on the
endangered species list? Did you also know that Emerald Bay is home to many o f
them? In our Mammal Study class, you will learn about the 4000-year-old species,
as well as the North American Bison who, weighing an average of 2,000 lbs. also roam
Catalina Island.

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 NATURE (continued)
Nature (Level 1) - Scouts will spend time at camp learning about
why it is important to care for the world around us and how animals
function in their natural environments. This is a good program for the
Scouts who are looking to start their journey as environmentalists.
Soil and Water Conservation (Level 2) - One of the hot issues
for the future will be where to get our water and what to do with our
vanishing open spaces. Scouts can debate these and more topics in the
Soil and Water Conservation class. Additionally, The Camp Emerald Bay
Compost Garden hosts native plants as well as edible fruits and
vegetables. The garden was grown using composted material from our
dining hall. Come explore our progress and taste the fruits of our labor!
Bird Study (Level 2) - Explore our ecosystem while tracking,
tracing, and observing birds commonly found on Catalina Island. The
birders in this course will have a unique opportunity to travel around
camp on a Birding Party Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

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 SCOUTCRAFT
The Scoutcraft area is the place where scouts
can learn basic and advance outdoor skills,
along with a variety of knots. The area is
amongst the Caldwell, our abandoned pirate
ship and is where the Scouts can learn to
make a rope bridge and other latching
structures. Adults and Scouts are always
welcome to come by the area to work on a
project outside the confines of a merit badge
program, and the staff is always happy to
help.

Camping (Level 2) - Camping merit badge teaches you fundamental

camping skills to ensure that you are well prepared. Learning how to use
your camping equipment more effectively will make every trip outside of
summer camp more rewarding. It is also one of the many merit badges you
will be required to earn for your Eagle rank. You will be required to have
requirements 8D, 9A and 9B completed prior to arrival.

Geocaching (Level 2) - Test your GPS skills by finding many of

Catalina Island’s hiding places. There are hidden treasures all around the
island, with over 50 cache sites. Leave your sign, stamp your book, and try to
find all the geocache locations using our Garmin GPS units. You will be
required to complete requirements 7 and 8 prior to coming to camp.
Orienteering (Level 2) - In a world of GPS enabled systems, it
almost seems that maps and compasses become obsolete, but what if your
battery dies or you drop your system into a ravine? Learn to navigate along
our cliff sides above the ocean and master the basics of orienteering.
Pioneering (Level 2) - One of the original merit badges and a basic
cornerstone to any Scout’s experience, our Pioneering class offers Scouts
the opportunity to learn essential outdoor skills in a fun, pirate-themed
environment.
Wilderness Survival (Level 2) - Knowledge and confidence can
make all the difference in an outdoor emergency. Scouts will learn survival
skills and, more importantly, ways to avoid having to use them. Sleep under
the stars on a desert island in a shelter you build yourself and survive a
night as Robinson Crusoe!

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 SCUBA DIVING
Important Information Regarding All Scuba
Programs
• All additional Scuba programs are scheduled around
the requirements of the Open Water Scuba Programs.
• Participants in training courses must be aged
12 or older (This is a National BSA policy,
NO EXCEPTIONS)
• Scuba information and sign-up instructions will be
included in the Spring Leader’s Packet
• Reservations are made through Doubleknot, like all
other activity and merit badge sign ups. The difference
is the week-long programs that need to be signed up
for separately.
• Some medical conditions, including but not limited
to asthma and diabetes, can disqualify someone from
Scuba Diving at Emerald Bay. Please contact In2Deep
for details and to see if you will need physician
clearance to dive.

PLEASE DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN SCUBA

TANKS OR WEIGHTS.

Scuba Diving (Level 3b) - Scuba merit badge is offered as part of

our Rugged SCUBA program. Scouts that already hold a SCUBA
certification may earn the SCUBA merit badge without participating in
our week-long Rugged SCUBA program. Registration for this is on the
Traditional Registration where you find all the other merit badge courses.

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 ADDITIONAL AWRDS
BSA LIFEGUARD PG. 13
SNORKELING BSA PG. 13
MILE SWIM BSA PG. 13
NRA QUALIFICATION PG. 14
BSA AQUARIST PG. 14
BSA OCEANOGRAPHER PG. 14
BSA NATURALIST PG. 14
FIRST YEAR RANK ADVANCEMENT PG. 14
BSA STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING PG.15
SCUBA BSA PG. 15
DISCOVER LOCAL DIVING PG. 15

ADDITIONAL BSA AWARDS

In addition to the many merit badges we offer at Emerald Bay, you may also want to sign up
for one of our BSA Awards, some of which are only offered at Camp Emerald Bay. Adults
may also take part in the following classes, except for First Year Rank Advancement.

BSA Lifeguard (Level 4) - Having a certified BSA Lifeguard in your troop is one of
your greatest assets. When Scouts participate in our program, they learn the
fundamentals of Safe Swim Defense and fulfill one of eight safe swim points
your troop is required to meet on outings. Camp Emerald Bay is an American
Red Cross Licensed Training Provider, and with an additional fee Scouts and
adults can earn American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED
certifications.
Snorkeling BSA (Level 2) - Catalina Island and its surrounding waters have some of the
most diverse ecosystems you will find in country. If you are unable to partake in
one of our SCUBA programs, then we suggest participating in Snorkeling BSA at
Emerald Bay, especially if you are new to snorkeling. Scouts may take this class
during fifth session, while our fourth session class is only open to adults.

Mile Swim BSA (Level 3b) - A true test of stamina and patience. Before swimming,
instruction and practice are required during the first few days. The actual mile
swim may be done on the last two days during A session. Each swimmer must
have a rower to observe. The mile swim may also be done as 60 lengths in the
swim area during period 5.

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ADDITIONAL BSA AWARDS (continued)
NRA Qualification (Level 4) - For those who have completed the
appropriate Merit Badges we offer the NRA qualification program in Light
Rifle, Four Position Rifle, and Shotgun. Each of these, when completed, leads
to medals which can be worn on the Scout uniform and cloth badges for your
jacket. For further information, please speak with the Field Sports Director
during your stay at camp.
ROV Ocean Exploration (Level 2) – Participants will build their own
remote operated vehicle (ROV) and drive the drone under water while learning
from our PMSC Aquarists and Educators. The course will take place in both
Sessions 1 and 2 each day of the week, Monday through Friday. Participants
will miss the morning War Canoe activities and hike over before lunch, during
Session 3 accompanied by staff. Participants must be Swimmer Level for the
BSA Swim Test prior to taking this course.
BSA Aquarist (Level 2) - The aquarist program teaches Scouts small- and
large-scale aquarium management. Scouts will monitor their own tanks as well
aslearn how the system in the center operates. Scouts will receive an education
about what it takes to be a professional aquarist. Only offered at Emerald Bay!
BSA Oceanographer (Level 4) - The BSA Oceanographer will learn
about pressing environmental issues surrounding the planet’s vast water
resources and learn laboratory research techniques through hands-on training.
Be ready to get wet! This program is also only offered at Emerald Bay.
Oceanography merit badge is required to participate. These may not be met
concurrently. This program is also open to adults.
BSA Naturalist (Level 4) - This award is only offered at Emerald Bay!
The BSA Naturalist Program will build your environmental skill set while
exploring and taking in more of the island. By the end of the week, you can
function as your troop’s naturalist, passing along valuable information in a fun
way. Environmental Science merit badge and two Nature merit badges are
required before participating.

First Year Rank Advancement (Level 1) - Scouts who earn their

First-Class rank within the first year of Scouting are far more likely to stay in
scouting and become Eagle Scouts. Newer Scouts can participate in our First
Year Rank Advancement program with the goal of completing many of the
requirements needed for First Class. Taught by a combination of our
Scoutcraft staff and Rangers, this program offers high quality instruction and
engaging activities. Scouts who need only a few requirements completed can
come later in the day for a shorter, more customized lesson.

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ADDITIONAL BSA AWARDS (continued)
BSA Stand Up Paddleboarding (Level 2) - The new most
popular BSA Award is now available at Camp Emerald Bay. We teach
you the basics of the board and how to propel your way through the
water. See all the various ocean life under your feet from the advantage
point of your full height.

Scuba BSA (Level 2) - A half-day of fun for non-divers, this

popular program gives Scouts and Scouters the chance to scuba dive
without committing to a full program of instruction. SCUBA BSA is an
“experience only” program, not offering a certification, but allowing
participants to discover the excitement of the underwater world (under
the supervision of an instructor) without investing large amounts of time
and money. The program requires half a day and is scheduled
throughout the week. Please bring a swimsuit, towel and shoes that can
get wet. All other gear will be provided. Registration is via Doubleknot.

Discover Local Diving (DLD) (Level 2) - DLDs allow certified

divers to enjoy the underwater beauty of Emerald Bay under the guidance
of an instructor or Divemaster from In2Deep. Dives are scheduled
throughout the week, and rental equipment is provided. An in-water skills
review is required for all divers prior to the first dive. Divers not having
dove within five years may be referred to the BSA SCUBA program for a
refresher.

Specialty Dives with In2Deep – All certified divers are encouraged to

explore the In2Deep specialty dive offerings. Contact In2Deep to see what
specialty may be best for your skillset and interest. Sign up in Doubleknot!

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