Badge Requirements (page 1)
Badge Requirements (page 1)
Badge
Requirements (page 2)
THANK YOU SUSAN FOR HELPING
WITH THE TYPING OF
REQUIREMENTS!
I GREATLY APPRECIATE IT!
J
LaVonne
Across Generations
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
1. These Are Their Lives:
Interview one or more older adults to find out about
their lives. Ask them about dates, special events, or other important days that
they remember. Create a painting, time line, or scrapbook showing these
important experiences. Give it to the person you interviewed.
2. Learn a New Skill
Invite a person who is 70 years old or older and has a
special hobby or skill to share it with your troop or family.
3. Make A Friend
Visit a person in a nursing home or senior center at least
two times. Ask her about her live, share pictures from your life, teach her one
of today's songs or learn a song from her childhood.
4. Be A Helper
Find a way to assist an older person in your communit
y. Help an
older neighbor with her gardening, help a friend's grandmother with chores, or
read to someone whose eyesight is failing.
5. Service Directory
With your troop create a list of communit
y agencies, schools,
house of worship, or organizations that help older people. Contact each
organization and find out if it allo2ws girls to volunteer. If it does, what
commitment is required? Does the organization provide training? Compile this
information in a directory. Work with your leader or another adult to make
copies of the directory available for people who want to do service project.
6. Girl Scouts Past and Present
Find women in your communit
y who were Girl Scouts from 1912
to 1950. Invite them to share their Girl Scout memories with you. What has
stayed the same in Girl Scouting? What has changed?
7. Share the Fun
Visit a nursing home, retirement home, or senior citizen's
center. Participate in an activity such as singing or a game or craft session.
Or create a special activity that you then share with a group of senior
citizens.
8. Love What You Do
Invite an individual over the age of 65, who is active in her
career, to come to your troop or group and discuss what has made her happy and
successful in her work.
9. What's So Funny?
Find out how humor has changed over the years. Look at
cartoons or comic books from 20 or 30 years ago. Ask your local librarian to
help you find them. Next, read the funnies in your local paper or your favorite
comic book. What's different? What's the same?
10. Food Through the Years
Invite a senior citizen to do a cooking project with you.
Prepare recipe she enjoyed as a youngster. Ask her how food preparation has
changed. Are some ingredients that used to be easily available now hard to find?
What new kitchen equipment has been invented that makes cooking much quicker and
easier?
Adventure Sports
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Get Strong
Adventure sports require strength, flexibility, and balance. When you're not
actually doing the sports, prepare for them by doing:
- Squats and lunges
- Wall presses and push-ups
- Walking, running, and skipping
Go to the "Just for Girls" Web site to see how to do lunges, squats, wall
pushes, and push-ups. Playing hopscotch, jumping rope, skating, and
skateboarding will also keep you fit and ready for any adventure.
Picture It
Create a scrapbook of adventure sports. Tear out pictures and articles of
kids doing just what you'd like to do.
Kayak
Grab your paddle and learn how to:
- Get In
- Keep your balance
- Paddle
- Roll (un-swamp your kayak)
- Turn
- Get Out
Rope It
Go to a ropes course and have a blast! Learn how to get yourself and your
friends:
- Over the wall
- Up the line
- Down the Zip Line
- Through the web
Ride the Waves
Learn how to windsurf. Or try your hand at surfing with a board. Learn how
to:
- Get Up
- Keep your balance
- Make a turn
- Get off safely
In order to do this activity, you must know how to swim. You must keep your
PFD (personal floatation device) on at all times!
Mountain Bike
Mountain biking differs from road cycling. When you mountain bike , you are
usually riding over unpaved, bumpy roads - where rocks, logs, or other
obstacles can get in your way. Learn how to:
- Shift gears
- Brake safely
- Keep your balance downhill
- Ride over bumps and ditches
- Turn sharply
You must have your bike helmet on at all times!
Impact Free
Adventure sports pit you against nature: mountains, rocks, and water.
Playing adventure sports can destroy the natural environment needed for the
sport. How can you keep your fun from eroding away? Pick a sport and find
out what type of impact it has on the environment. What can you do to lessen
that impact?
Adventure Obstacle Course
Create an obstacle course for you and your friends. Use your imagination,
and whatever's around (hula-hoops, rope, empty soda bottles filled with
water or sand are good places to start). Come up with ways for people to:
- jump high
- jump long
- Test their balance
- zigzag
- use their arms
- run
- slide
See who can get through the obstacle course the fastest, or the most
creative.
Gear Up
Adventure sports require specific equipment - both for the sport and for
your own safety. Pick an adventure sport and find out:
- What pieces of equipment are needed and how they work
- How much equipment costs to buy and maintain
- What type of safety gear is used and how to maintain it
Climb the Wall
Try your hand at rock climbing. Go to a gym or recreation center that has a
climbing wall and find out:
- How to put a harness on properly
- How to tie a figure 8 knot
- How to belay
- How to climb
- How to rest without coming down
- How to rappel
Aerospace
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Paper Airplanes
Make and fly three different designs for paper airplanes.
Test Flight
Put together a simple model glider or make your own out of balsa wood. Can
you make your glider fly straight, stall, loop, bank right, and bank left?
Go Fly A Kite
Make and fly your own kite. What type of wind makes the kite fly best? What
can you do to try to make the kite better?
Think Sky High
Visit an airport, an airplane cockpit, a control tower, a space center, an
aerospace museum or a planetarium.
Models Away
Attend a radio-controlled or control-line airplane event or a model rocket
launch. Find out how much time and money it takes to build a model.
Shoot for the Stars
Watch a space launch in person, on television, or on the web. Find out what
kind of space vehicle or satellite was launched and why
OR
Visit NASA's Web site www.nasa.gov and
find out what missions are underway or planned for the future. Be sure to
check out the "NASA Kids" Link.
Contact!
Talk to some older people in your communit
y about air travel before 1960.
Not sure where to start? Ask about: early aircraft, barnstorming,
dirigibles, coast-to-coast travel, Amelia Earhart, a Powder Puff derby, and
military flying by women during the two World Wars.
Space Flight Spinoffs
The science and technology used in exploring space have many applications
here on earth. Find out about one of the following. If possible, try the
product or talk to someone who uses it in her life.
- Dehydrated Foods (Food from which water has been removed, first developed
for astronauts)
- Infrared thermometer (an ear thermometer that uses the technology
developed by scientists to measure the temperature of stars and planets)
- An advanced heart pacemaker (a miniature device designed to keep a human
heart beating, uses long-life batteries developed for space flight.
Up, Up, and Away!
Put on an air show and invite other groups to participate. Try one of the
following:
- Have races for different kinds of model aircraft, such as gliders and
airplanes. Give awards for different achievements, such as longest flight,
best stunt, or most accurate flight.
- Hold a kite-building workshop
- Host a kite-flying festival
Women Flying Sky High
Do you have the right stuff to be an astronaut? Go online:
www.quest.arc.nasa.gov/women/into.html and see what it takes!
OR
Visit the home page of the Ninety-Nines
www.ninety-nines.org an
international organization for women pilots, and be sure to check out the
section on "Women Pilots Today."
Architecture
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Building Tour
Walk in your communit
y (or a place you are visiting) with a friend or family
member. Find examples of architecture that you like and don't like. Record
your observations in a sketchbook or with a camera so you can talk with your
walking partner about what you liked and didn't like.
Making Their Mark
Learn about a well-known architect and visit one of her projects in person
or online. Find out why this person is known for her work.
Down To Scale
An architectural plan is a drawing of your project that uses a scale
measurement, such as 1 inch = 1 foot, to represent the actual size of the
object on paper. Make your own plan of a room to scale, using graph paper or
a computer software program.
Conserving Energy
Find out what kinds of laws exist in your state or communit
y that encourage
energy conservation in building structures.
Nature's Design
Design a garden - a children's garden, a living maze, a special theme
garden, a public garden for flower or vegetable plots, or a Japanese garden.
Include artwork, plantings, structures, walkways, and other things you could
use to make it a special place. Sketch a plan or do a scale model.
Making Your Mark
Participate in a project that helps restore a public space or building in
your communit
y. Document the changes that happen by taking before and after
pictures.
Architecture Around the World
Create a way to show the architecture of different countries. What makes the
architecture distinct? How have climate, culture, natural resources, or
lifestyle shaped the architecture? What do the homes and buildings tell you
about the people who live there?
Idea File
Create a notebook, file box, or computer file to keep your favorite
architectural ideas in. Use this file as you do other activities in this
badge.
From Airports to Zoos
In a group, brainstorm a list of buildings or combination of buildings you
would love to design if you were an architect. Decide who will use them,
what activities will happen in them, and how people with disabilities will
use them.
House Of Sticks
Create a structure out of twigs, small pieces of driftwood, toothpicks,
coffee stirrer sticks, or a combinations of small sticks. Use glue, string,
and tools, appropriate to the materials.
Art in the Home
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Art in Style
Collect pictures of different rooms showing different styles of furniture,
rugs, wall coverings, decorations, and lighting, and different color
schemes. Using your collection, do one of the following:
- Decide which furniture style you like best and why
- Look at the patterns in the rooms. How many patterns are there - on the
floor, walls, windows, and furniture? Do they go with each other or do they
clash?
- Look at the colors and how they are used. Do different colors give
different feelings? How are colors used together?
Measure Up
Measure a room in a house. Draw it on a large piece of paper in scale 1 inch
= 1 foot. Indicate doors and windows. With colored paper, cut shapes to
scale for furniture, rugs, storage unit
s, etc.
Create a Dream Room
Cut out pictures of furniture, accessories, wallpaper, and rugs that you
like. Arrange them in a shoe box to create your "dream" room. Glue into
place and show your room to others.
A Dried Gourd Decoration
Dried gourds are used throughout the world in places such as Mexico, and
Central and South America, as bowls and containers. Try making your own
gourd decoration.
- Start with a gourd that has a smooth surface. If it is not already dried,
it will have to dry out for a long time before this project is completed,
perhaps six to eight months. It will feel much lighter and the seeds will
rattle when it is dry. Clean it after it is dry.
- Using heavy pressure, cover the entire surface of the gourd with black
crayon except for the unit
s where you want the color of the gourd to show.
- Smooth the crayoned gourd to a glossy shine with a tissue.
- Study the shape of the gourd and decide on a design. A gourd with a long
neck might make a nice goose. A round gourd might suggest a small animal.
- Using blunt scissors or a knitting needles, scrape through the crayon to
expose the gourd underneath. Scrape, but don't cut, the skin of the gourd.
If you don't like your design, cover over the surface once again with the
black crayon and begin the scraping process over again.
Say It With Flowers
Visit a store that sells plants and flowers to see a variety of
arrangements. Then make your own floral arrangement or centerpiece.
Home Arts: Home Business
You can make home arts, and then sell them as part of a home business. Visit
at least two shops that sell things for the home that are made by people at
their homes. If possible, arrange to speak with someone who creates art for
sale.
Budget for the Future
Visit a store that sells furniture, rugs, china, table linens, curtains, and
other household items or look through mail order catalogs or on the web.
Select items that you think you would like to have in your home someday.
List them and find out the prices.
Design Your Own Room
Make two plans for your own room, including what you need for sleeping,
storage, relaxing, homework, and hobbies. Make one plan as if you had an
unlimited budget; the other plan as if you had very little money to spend.
Holiday Decor
Make a decoration, such as a harvest wreath, a dried flower arrangement, a
flag, or a table centerpiece, to add a festive look to your home during the
holiday.
Accent on Beauty
Create something that would make your home nicer such as a basket, wall
hanging, or quilt. For ideas, look through how-to craft books or at other
badges with art activities.
Art in 3-D
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
In the Fold
Origami an ancient Japanese art of paper folding. Make an origami paper
crane, a symbol of piece and hope.
You can have each girl in your troop or group make one, then use the cranes
as decorations for a Girl Scout event celebrating world friendship.
http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Lab/5466/ori_swan1.html (page 1)
http://www.geocities.com/CapeCanaveral/Lab/5466/ori_swan2.html (page 2)
OR
http://www.newton.mec.edu/Angier/DimSum/Origami%20Lesson.html
Mold It
Mold clay or other modeling material. Your work can be something that is
useful or something that is purely decorative.
Past Masters
For centuries, art students have tried copying the styles of famous artist.
Look at art online or in museums. Search online using key words such as
"Sculpture", or the names of specific artist. After reviewing the work of
three artists or sculptors, try your hand in the 3-D medium and style of one
you admire.
Negatives Are Positives
In sculpture, the positive space is the solid part of the work and the
negative space is the air space that is still considered a part of the
design. Create an abstract sculpture using boxes, crates, pieces of wood,
cardboard, or polystyrene. Include negative as well as positive space in
your design.
Carve It
Explore the art of woodcarving. How to books and wood carving tools and kits
are available at most arts and crafts stores. Many stores offer classes on
how to use the tools and kits. Ask your art teacher or another adult for
help. Keep in mind safety issues and be sure that an adult is around
whenever you are sharpening your sills. After practicing for a while, make a
wood carving, either realistic or abstract in design.
All Around the Town
Look for examples of three dimensional art in your communit
y. Try to find at
least five examples.
Art That's Me
Every culture expresses itself through art. Create a piece of art in 3-D
that represents your heritages.
Art as Therapy
Arrange to visit a site where people with different abilities and special
needs are creating art. Find out if local schools, hospitals, or nursing
homes have an art therapist on staff. Ask if you could be allowed to talk to
or observe one of them at work.
|It's Mobile
Find out about mobiles and stabiles and try creating one of your own.
Wire It
Create a three-dimensional design by twisting, cutting, and/or coiling wire.
Use tools appropriate to the heaviness of the wire. Add other materials as
needed for your design.
Art to Wear
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Fashion Through The Ages
Collect pictures of fashions from three periods of history, dating about 20
years apart. You can check the fashion picture collection at a library or
museum, online, or in issues of fashion magazines or paper doll books. Draw
pictures of what you find and arrange them attractively on a poster or in a
booklet. What do you like or dislike from different eras? For instance, you
might like how the hop skirts from the mid 1800s look, but not like how they
keep you from playing sports.
Fashion Friendship
Make a friendship anklet (see the "Create and Invent" chapter in your Junior
Girl Scout Handbook) or an accessory for a friend, such as a vest, belt, or
scarf, using a technique that you have learned, such as sewing, knitting,
crocheting, or embroidering.
Fashions From Afar
Create a poster of the traditional dress of countries from three continents.
Explore libraries, museums, and magazines, talk to family and friends, or
look online to find out how the garments or decorations reflect the culture
and lifestyle of the people.
Show Your Flair
With an adult's help, make an item of clothing or alter one you already own.
Show off your creation at a troop or group fashion show. With others who are
interested, plan the fashion slow to kick off or conclude a fabulous season
in Girl Scouting. Invite the public. Give the show a theme, such as "Girl
Scouts Dress Globally", "Spring Fever," or "roaring Twenties".
Pattern-Maker
Some fabric designs or patterns are made by batik, tie dying, silk screen,
or embroidery. Try your hand at creating a pattern. Select a method and
create the pattern. Use it on a plain piece of fabric, a shirt, or other
item. Display your item in a troop or group fashion show, or wear it on a
special occasion.
Fashion Add-Ons
Create a clothing accessory for yourself, such as a jacket, vest, belt,
scarf, or hat, in a technique that you have learned - swing, knitting,
crocheting, or embroidering.
Sell Fashion
What careers or hobbies in fashion interest you? Explore that question in
your troop or group in one of two ways;
- Invite people in your communit
y - shop owners, art students, designers -
to talk about their careers. Talk to them one on one, or as part of a panel.
- Visit a flea market and talk to people who display their art to wear, from
belts to boots and hats to jewelry.
Doll Clothes
Collect dolls from home or from friends and give them a fashion tune-up.
Design jackets, dresses, pants, or other fashion components for one or two
dolls.
The Old Is New Again
Look at jewelry from two to three different decades. What was popular? Are
any trends fro the past popular now? What's the newest trend? Draw or create
a piece of jewelry that you think will be a future trend.
Decorate Your Wears
Dress up a plain or old garment with a small decorative item. For
instructions on making the item, consult crafts or sewing booklets available
at specialty shops or online. Check the following for ideas: embroidery,
crocheting, lacework, quilting, appliqué, braiding, beads, buttons, costume
jewelry, tassels, fringes, and pompons. Model your finished creation for
family or friends.
Becoming A Teenager
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Get the Facts
Ask a health educator, doctor, nurse, or teacher to visit a Girl Scout
meeting to talk about how the body changes in puberty. Before the visit,
create a list of at least 10 questions on the physical, mental, and
emotional changes both girls and boys your age can expect over the next
three to five years.
Successful Teens
find out about girls in their teens who have achieved success through an
invention, a business, service to others, sports, the arts, or in another
way. Why were they successful?
Read About It
Read or listen to a book that has a teenage girl as the main character.
Organize a book swap with your troop or with friends. Have each girl
describe a book she has read, then swap her book for another so that each
girl gets a new one to read.
Looking Ahead
Find out what's on the minds o teenage girls. Ask teenage sisters, cousins,
and neighbor what their greatest challenges are. Check out eh questions
teenage girls ask on the "Ask Dr. M" section of the Girl Scout Web site
www.girlscouts.org/girls and
read the advice Dr. M offers. What other suggestions would you make?
Here's Looking at You!
Set up a personal care schedule and follow it. Include combing, brushing,
washing, and taken care of your hair; bathing, brushing your teeth, washing
your face, and having regular health check-ups.
Freedom and Responsibility
Your teen years will bring a lot more freedom and responsibility. Find out
from two or three teens how they handle having more freedom, more
responsibility, and more decisions to make.
Today's "Tween"
Look through magazines, read books, or watch television programs and movies
that feature girls and boys 9-12 years old. Notice their clothing, behavior,
talk, and activities. With your troop, friends, or family, talk about what
you see. Are these messages accurate?
Teen in the Family
Interview family members about what it was like for them when they were
teens. You can talk about appearance, school, friends, dating, or any other
information that is important to you.
Celebrate!
In many cultures girls take part of coming-of-age ceremonies that mark their
entrance into adulthood. The Japanese celebrate Seijin no hi Day on the
second Monday in January after a girl turns 20 years old. Many Jewish girls
have a Bat Mitzvah when they turn 13, and many Hispanic girls celebrate
their 15th. birthday, which in Spanish is called quinceanero. With a group
of friends, and some adult assistance, plan and conduct your own
coming-of-age ceremony.
Teen Habits
Look through magazines or watch some television programs that show
teenagers. Make a list of the characteristics and behaviors of teenagers as
shown in articles, advertisements, or shows. Ask a teenager if your list is
realistic.
Being My Best
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Set a Goal - and Reach It!
Setting goals and then reaching them boost your confidence. The best way to
reach long-term goals- like improving your grades or saving money for
something expensive - is by setting short-term (Smaller) goals, such as
studying an extra 15 minutes a night or not buying candy after school.
Decide on a long-term goal and the short-term goals that will help you reach
it.
Name Your Talents
Boost your self-esteem. Become aware of your talents and strengths. Each day
for at least one week, make a list that begins: "I am good at..." Then list
all the things that you have done well that day, even little things like
being patient with your younger brother or sister. Put your list in a safe
place, such as inside a journal. Having a bad day? Make a list on that day
too, and you'll see that even on a bad day, you're still doing a lot of
things well.
Keep a Journal
Start your own journal - a special book, similar to a diary, in which you
can write your thoughts, feelings, and anything else you want. You can be
creative and write stories or poems, or draw pictures or cartoons. In your
journal, you can be very honest and serious, or you can be happy and silly.
Try writing about these topics in your journal:
- what do you like the best about yourself?
- how are you special and different from everybody else?
write tow words that you think each of these people would use to describe
you: a neighbor, your best friend, a teacher. Write two words that you would
use to describe yourself.
Find role Models
Movies and books contain great heroines with self-confidence. Think about a
girl or woman in a book you have read or a movie you have seen. What did she
do in the book or movie that showed high self0-esteem? What do you admire
about her? What positive character traits does she have that you would like
to develop? Create your ideal role model.
Think Positively}
Turn negative thinking into positive thoughts. Come up with ten things that
kids often say that are negative. or each item, figure out a way to turn it
into a thought or idea that is more positive. Share your list with friends
to show them how to take positive actions.
Create a "Brag Bag"
With your troop, friends, or family, write positive statements on index
cards about each other. Each person should write one positive statement
about every person in the group - write one for yourself, too! Collect all
the cards that are about you and keep them in a special container. When you
are feeling "Down", pull out a care and read it.
Peer Pressure Role-Play
Giving in to peer pressure means going along with the group so you won't
feel different or so others won't make fun of you. Create and act out a
situation about kids dealing with peer pressure. With your trop, friends, or
family, role-play each situation twice. The first time, have the main
character give in to peer pressure. The second time, have the main character
resist peer pressure. What are some techniques you can use to resist peer
pressure?
Feeling Fit to Be Your Best
Read about health and fitness in the "Be Healthy, Be Fit" chapter of your
Junior Girl Scout Handbook. Pick one activity from those pages and do it.
Good Deed
Helping others can help you feel good about yourself. Do a deed for someone
else that taps into one of your special skills.
Award Night
Hold an awards ceremony with your friends or your troop at which every girl
wins an "I am great at...." award.
Books
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
It's a Wide World
Read two fold tales, stories, or poems from a culture other than your own.
Share what you have learned in any of the following ways:
- Act out one or more of the stories or folk tales.
- Learn more about one or more of the writers.
- Read one of the stories, poems, or folk tales to your Girl Scout group or
another audience.
- Create puppets and put on a puppet show, based on one of the stories, for
a group of younger children or Girl Scouts.
Picture This!
Select one or tow picture books and do one of the following:
- Read the books to younger friends or Girl Scouts. Ask what they like about
the illustrations and the stories.
- Create two book covers to go with your selected books.
- Create your own picture book in the same style.
Be a Tape Worm!
Make an audiotape of a book, short story, magazine article, joke or riddle
collection, play or poetry collection that you can give to someone who
cannot read. You could, with your troop or group, make tapes at a local
agency that service people who are blind or visually impaired. Practice
reading aloud so that your tape will sound polished and smooth.
Be a Reading Helper
Some children and adults have trouble reading. Find out from a reading
specialist, teacher, librarian, or another adult about different types of
reading difficulties or disabilities. Then, with the help of adults as
needed, do one of the following:
- put together and distribute a list of places to go in your communit
y for
reading help. This information is available at most libraries.
- be a reading buddy. find out where you can help a younger child who is
learning to read or having trouble reading. check with your teacher or
leader, or ask your librarian if there are literacy or reading organizations
in your communit
y. volunteer to spend at least one-half hour a week for alt
least a month with a reading partner.
The Living Past!
When you read about something that happened a long time ago, you make the
event come alive again in your mind. Read a story poem, or folk tale that
reflects past life in the unit
ed States.
Read and Review
In a newspaper or other source, read review of new books for your age level.
Check one of the books out of the library, read it, and decide if the review
was right.
How To? Read On!
Become an expert in a subject by reading about it. You might read about the
subject mater of another badge in this book. For example, read a book about
dance, music, the life of a famous woman artist or sports hero, horses,
cooking, the environment, or an historic event. Review the book in writing
or discuss it with your troop or family.
Build a Library
Share your love of reading with others in your communit
y in one of two ways:
- Set up a schedule with other Girl Scout members to bring library books in
large print, in Braille, or on tape to someone who will enjoy them.
- With the help of an adult, collect books and magazines for specific age
levels and donate them to a library, camp, nursing home, youth shelter,
pediatric office, clinic, day-care center, or other facility.
Books for Life
Find out about careers for people who like books. If you can, visit with an
author, poet, illustrator, editor, librarian, bookstore owner or book
publisher or invite any of those professional to visit your troop or group.
Your Library's Treasures
Explore your local library's resources. Prepare poster to encourage greater
use of the library, or an advertising flyer to let the communit
y know about
all the library's treasures. Some libraries sponsor readings by local poets
and authors, or concert series. What kinds of classes or lectures are
available at yours?
Business Wise
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Talent Scout
Make a list of your skills and interests. Talk to some people in your
neighborhood to get ideas about what kinds of products or services are
needed in your communit
y. Make a list of businesses that would combine your
skills and interests with your communit
y's needs.
Ask an Owner
Ask a successful female business owner the following questions:
- What was your first business?
- Why did you start your own business?
- What do you like the most and the least about being your own boss?
- What personality traits and skills are needed to run a business?
Risky Business
With your troop, friends or family, debate the advantages of working for
yourself, such as making your own decisions. Then consider the
disadvantages, such as working long hours.
Business Plan of Action
Think about a business you could start now, either by yourself or with
others. Write your answers to the following questions:
- What product or service will you provide?
- Who will your customers be?
- What will the name of your business be?
- How will you get the money or supplies you need to start?
- How much will you charge for your product or service?
- How will you advertise your product or service?
- How will you keep accurate records of income and expenses?
Your answers make up your business plan. Share your plan with an adult and
ask for other suggestions.
Friends and Money
Talk to a friend who is interested in starting a business with you, and
create guidelines that will help to guarantee a successful working
relationship. The word "communicate" should be at the top of the list.
Cost and Profit
Setting prices for your product or service can be tricky. Not only must you
cover your expense, but you must also make a profit! Interview someone who
has her own business and find out how she determines her expenses, including
materials, office supplies, phone and computer expenses, advertising costs,
lighting, and postage. If you are in a service business, ask her to help you
determine what your time is worth.
Be Seen!
Create an advertising campaign for your real or imaginary business using
flyers, posters, brochures, or advertisements - or any other means you think
will work. How much will is cost to make these items and to place them where
customers will see them? Remember to add the cost of advertising to your
overall cost.
Practice Makes Perfect
Demonstrate the way you would present yourself and your product or service
to your customers. You could do this by trying out your business manners
when you meet or greet someone in person or on the phone, or prepare a
sample business letter. Prepare a presentation about your product or service
for a customer.
Up and Running
If possible, take part in running a business according to your business plan
for a at least one month.
Cash Flow
Find out how to open a savings or checking account for business. Find out
about he services offered by the bank specially for business customers.
Camera Shots
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Camera Shop
Learn about three different types of still or video cameras and three
different kinds o film, and about other ways of recording or shooting
pictures.
Portraits
Have friends or family members pose for you. Take:
- full-body poses
- close-ups of their faces
How do your photos or videos show the personality of their subject?
Be a Sports Photographer
To capture a sporting event or athlete, you need to get as close as you can
to the action. Practice shooting friends as they jump rope or snowboard, or
play softball or soccer. Take at least ten pictures or videotape for ten
minutes. Try to learn the best ways to take pictures or shoot a video when
things are moving quickly.
Landscape
Take at least five photographs that focus on the environment: sunsets,
storms, water, trees, hills, buildings, skylines.
The Basics
Learn to use a video camera. Find out how to turn it off and on, where to
put the battery and how to recharge it, how to insert and remove the tape,
how to record, how to view what you have taped, and what special effects
your camera has.
Show Time
Select one of your best photographs - enlarge it and create a special frame
for it. Or select one of your best videotapes - edit it, record music or
dialogue to accompany it, and show it to friends and family.
Get Ready, Get Set
Learn how to maintain and clean your still or video camera. Also find out
how to remove a completed roll of film or tape, insert a new roll or tape,
or transfer digital images onto a computer.
Tell a Story
Take at least five pictures or create a videotape to tell a story or to
illustrate a children's book or poem.
Screen Test
Directors on camera people check their work every day at a screening called
"dailies." They can see what worked and what has to be reshot. Try your hand
at videotaping a family or Girl Scout event - a party, a conversation, or a
sport. then have a screening party with some of your friends and family.
What worked? What didn't? What might you do differently the next time?
Getting It In Shape
Visit a video editing facility or spend some time with someone who knows how
to edit videotapes. Find out what kinds of computer hardware and software
can be used for editing and special effects. Learn what is involved in
editing, dubbing, adding titles, and creating special effect. Do some simple
edits and titles for your own video production.
Camp Together
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Make a plan
Help plan a group camping trip to a troop house, camping, tent unit
, or
cottage for at least two nights. Create a budge for your trip. Then plan
what to eat, what to take, and how to get there.
Safety First
Do each of the following:
- learn to recognize hazards such as cliffs, poisonous plants, insects,
animals, or unstable footing that could be a danger. discuss with others how
to protect yourself in such situations.
- establish a buddy system, group boundaries, and a signal for gathering the
group in case of an emergency.
- establish a "lost plan" or what a girl would do in case she is separated
from the group.
- review the fire and evacuation plans posted at the site. Learn what you
should do and practice an evacuation.
Walk Safely
Learn about "leave no trace" camping. Find out how poor camping and outdoor
recreation practices can cause damage to the campsite and environment. Show
what you have learned about three or more of the following: erosion, fire,
air or water pollution; feeding wildlife, not removing garbage; and
destruction of plant or animal habitat. Explain or show how you can prevent
each of the ones you choose.
Dress Right
Develop a list of group and personal clothing and equipment to take with you
on your trip. Help to pack and carry the equipment and supplies.
Fueling and Cleaning Up
Plan a days worth of nutritious camping menus: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and
snacks. Plan for any health or religious needs regarding food. Cook one meal
over a camp stove or use a solar oven. Decide on nutritious foods that you
can bring when doing outdoor activities. Learn how to clean up and dispose
of garbage.
Challenge Yourself
Learn a new outdoor skill such as how to pitch a tent, use a map and
compass, rappel, dry-food, bird-watch, purify water, or cook outdoors.
Pitching In
Before you go, make a schedule for activities, free time, bedtime, meals,
clean-up, and setting up and closing camp. Make a kaper chart that gives
each girl a turn at the different jobs.
Natural World
Plan an outdoor activity that helps you learn more about your natural
surroundings through observation. Plan a nature hike or scavenger hunt.
The Outdoors at Night
Do one of the following, after discussing nighttime safety:
- Take a starry night hike or stargaze from an open spot
- Go to an unit
where everyone can sit quietly. Listen to the night sounds
for awhile, then write a poem about what you heard or experienced.
- Or plan your own activity that captures the night
Learning from Experience
(Do this activity last, after you've returned from your trip). As a group,
make a list of camping tips to share with new campers. Decide what worked
for you and the group and what you would change for the next camping trip.
Share what you discovered about yourself and the outdoors and what you'd
like to do your next time out.
Car Care
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
1. Check It Out
Find out about parts of a car that need to be checked
regularly. Include in your safety check the tires, battery, lights, turn
signals, emergency flashers, back-up lights, windshield wipers, spare tire, tire
jack, flares, radiator, and seat belts. If you live in an unit
with hot and cold
seasons, find out what items you need to check when the weather changes. With an
adult partner, use your list to perform a safety check on a car. Show that you
can:
Check the oil level and add the right kind and amount of oil, if needed.
Check the brake fluid reservoir and add the right amount of fluid, if needed.
Check the power steering fluid, if the car has power steering.
Check the automatic transmission fluid, if the car has automatic transmission.
Check the windshield cleaning fluid level and add some, if needed.
Observe safety precautions at all times. Do not check a car or open the radiator cap while the engine is running. Always make sure the parking brake is on when you do work on a car.
2. Write It Down
Pick one of the safety checks from
the list in activity 1, and write directions explaining how to do it. You may
need to sketch out some diagrams in order to make your instructions clear. Give
your instructions to an adult to see if she can follow them. Change your
directions if something was unclear.
3. On the Dashboard
What are all those lights, buzzers,
dials,, and gauges on a dashboard for? Ask your adult partner to help you learn
the name of each indicator (many show if something is wrong with the car).
4. Keep on Rolling
What are tires made of? Why and how
are tires rotated? What causes tread wear? Learn how to check tire air pressure
with the assistance of an adult. Discuss the safety issues involved in changing
a flat tire for both the drier and passengers.
5. Owner's Manual
What are considered special features on a
car? What three extra features would you like to have? Why? Find out what those
extra features would cost. Look at the owner's manual for a car, visit a car
dealership, or do some online comparisons.
6. Make It Shine
With the permission of the owner, learn the best
way to wash a car or truck. Check the owner's manual to see what type of cleaner
to use, then clean the inside and outside of the car. To conserve water,
wash the car without letting a hose run continuously. Discuss with your adult
partner how waxing a vehicle helps to keep its finish.
7. Public Safety
Find out what the safety inspection
requirements are in your state. How often do cars have to pass this inspection?
Work with an adult partner to find out whether the car you're working on would
pass the state safety inspection.
8. Driving It
Many people have jobs that involve
cars. Visit one of the following at work, or do an interview by phone or at a
meeting or event:
An auto mechanic
A highway patrol officer
Someone who drives trucks or other vehicles for a living
Someone who designs cars or car-related equipment
What is a usual day like? What are some of the tools used? What kinds of safety issues are of concern? Why did she or he enter the professions? What type of training is needed? Would you like to have that job? Why or why not?
9. Be Prepared
Find out what you should have on hand for car emergencies.
With your family members or guardians, create emergency kits for summer and
winter. Put one of your kits in the vehicle so it can be used when needed.
10. As We Live and Breathe
Learn about one of the following:
What devices have been installed in your car to reduce air pollution?
What parts or products in a car can be recycled?
Where would you take them?
What new designs in cars are being developed to decrease or eliminate the use of gasoline?
Caring For Children
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
1. Safety First
Make a booklet of babysitter safety measures, include first
aid tips and things to do if a child becomes, ill, as well as a list of
emergency phone numbers. Leave room to
fill in specific family information, such as the doctor's
name and number, or the number of an emergency contact person.
2. The Danger Zone
Find out what household items can be dangerous for a young
child. Make a list of those items and then find out how they are stored in your.
home. If possible, make a
safety check in a home where there is a young child.
3. Telling Tales
Children love hearing a good story. Read five books that younger
children really enjoy, and choose your favorite tow or three to read to a young
child. You can also write
your own stories to read to children.
4. Box of Tricks
Make a "rainy day" activities box for younger children.
Include supplies for at least four different types of activities. Make sure the
activities are safe for younger
children to do. (For example, there should be no small parts that
they might put in their mouths). Do the activities with a child or a group of
children.
5. Basic Skills with Infants
Invite a health-care professional who works with infants to come to
a troop or group meeting. Have her demonstrate the proper way to hold, feed, and
dress an infant.
Practice each of these skills. Note: A lifelike doll can be used
for this purpose.
6. What Can You Observe?
Plan to spend time with a young child or infant on different
days. Keep a written or taped record of your observations of the child's
behaviors and moods.
7. Planning Ahead
Decide what eight supplies you would need if you were taking
a preschooler on an all-day outing. Check with an adult who supervises young
children to see if your ideas were right.
8. Hungry? Eat Right
What are three healthy snacks you can make for younger
children? With the help of an adult, prepare and serve a healthy snack to a
Daisy or Brownie Girl Scout troop, or to some other group of younger children.
9. The Toy Test
Go through a toy store or catalog and check for toys that
would be safe and those that might be dangerous for children under three years
old. Share your findings with adults.
10. What, When?
Children go through different stages. At each age
children develop different skills and interests and are capable of different
things. Create a chart that shows what kids can do at each of the following
ages: newborn through six months, six through 12 months; 12 through 18 months;
18 months through two years, two years through four years. Use parenting books,
Web sites, and conversations with parents and professional care-givers to get
your information. Then add a section on what types of things you can do with
children at each age. Share it with girls who baby-sit.
Careers
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Check Out the Classifieds
Read three want ads (help wanted ads) from a newspaper or an online job
site. What do all those abbreviations mean? What experience or education is
needed for each job? How do the salaries compare? Would you like to have any
of those jobs? Why or why not?
Work Is Funny
If you read through the comics in the newspaper, you'll come across many
that are written about working life. Find out why work can be funny. If you
don't get the joke in a comic strip, ask someone who works to explain it to
you.
Hobbies Can Be Golden
Imagine doing something you love and earning money for it! Your favorite
hobby can become a career. Ask five adults whether hobbies they had as
children are related in some way to their careers. What did you learn from
talking to them?
A Career For You
Pick a career you might like to have. Find out about the education or
special training needed to get a job in that field, and the salary (what you
earn when you are starting out and after ten years). What clothes, tools, or
equipment are used in this career? Is it hard to get a job in this field?
Think of a way to share what you found out with others.
Thinking on Your Feet
Almost every career requires quick thinking. Try this activity to test how
well you think on your feet.
Count the number of girls in your group. Then prepare a slip of paper for each girl.
On each slip of paper write a word. You can write simple words like "cat", "shoe", "pencil", or "thumb", or more complicated ideas like "friendship", "peace", or "poverty".
Fold up the slips and place them in a container.
Each girl takes a turn, pulls a slip out of the container, and has to stand up and talk for 30 seconds about her topic. Think 30 seconds is too short? Try It! You'll see how long 30 seconds can be when you have to think on your feet!
6 . Time's a Wasting
Time
management skills are essential when you work. Find out how to mange time well
by reading the time management section of the "Be Healthy, Be Fit" chapter in
your Junior Girl Scout Handbook. Do on of the activities in that section.
7. Interviewing 101
A job interview
makes almost anyone nervous. But a good interview - one in which you stay calm,
cool, and collected - can get you your dream job. Practice going on an interview
to make the jitters go away. Pick a partner, then:
With your partner, choose a job from the newspaper want ads.
Decide on the questions the interviewer would ask to find the best person for the job.
Decide on how the interviewee (the person who wants the job) would answer the questions to make the best impression.
Role-play an interview. Take turns being the interviewer and the interviewee.
8. Role Models
Get information
about three women who have successful careers. Interview them to find out about
their secrets of success.
9. Getting Along in Groups
Almost every
job requires you to get along well with others. Read the section about getting
groups on track in the "Adventure in Girl Scouting" chapter of your Junior Girl
Scout Handbook. Ask a working person why conflict resolution skills are
important in the workplace.
10. Computers on the Job
Talk to
people who work about how they use computers at their jobs. Find out at least
five different ways computers are use. Share you information with others.
Celebrating People
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Celebrate the Day
Invite adults from two or three different backgrounds to a troop or group
meeting. Find out how weddings and birthdays are celebrated in their
cultures or religions.
Conduct Yourself!
The Girl Scout Promise and Law is a code of conduct (ways of acting).
Develop your own code of conduct for relating to other people. You should
have at least 5 guidelines in your code. Live by your code for one week. Was
it easy or hard to do so?
Who Are They?
Imagine that you are a visitor from another part of the universe. No one on
your home planet knows about Earth and you must make a report. How would you
answer these questions in your report?
- What are the common characteristics of the people who live on this planet?
- What activities do they enjoy?
- What are their beliefs, and what things are most important to them?
- How do they treat their planet?
One Big Family
Make a "Human Family" collage, poster, display, or booklet. Include photos
of people from as many different places around the world as you can.
Free and Equal
With your friends, write your own "declaration of young people's rights," a
document that describes the rights that kids your age should have. Find out
about one organization that works to help young people. See how you can
assist with the work it does.
Peace on Earth
Find out about people who are "peacemakers". Identify three people who work
for human rights, world peace, or tolerance. Pick one person to learn more
about, and share your findings with others.
Solve It Together
Think of 5 problems that might occur when people who are different live or
work together. Write each of the problems on a slip of paper. In a group,
pull out a slip and talk about or act out solutions to the problem. Continue
until all the problems have been discussed.
Include Everyone
People with disabilities can face challenges that people without
disabilities may not understand. Find out about ways your school and your
communit
y have made it easier for people with disabilities to get around and
to participate.
Reach Out
Watch the news for one week. Look for instances of discrimination or
violence against people of other races, religions, or cultures. Discuss with
your friends or family what communit
ies can do to combat prejudice.
It's A Pleasure
Learn four different meeting and greeting customs from around the world and
practice them with friends and family.
Ceramics and Clay
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Make It With Clay
With the help of a skilled artist or teacher, practice tow or more of the
clay-building techniques below and finish at least one piece:
- Pinch pots
- Slab Work (used for tiles, chimes, or decorations)
- Wheel thrown pieces
- Modeling/sculpturing in clay (Such as a figurine)
Coil Up!
Make a piece of pottery, using the coil method. Rub the clay between your
palms into snakelike coils then layer the coils on themselves to make a cup
or container. Join and smooth the coil layers.
Handle with Care
Learn how to handle clay with care. Show that you know how to:
- Store moist, unused clay and reclaim pieces of unfired, used clay for
future use.
- Wedge clay properly to insure that your piece does not explode in the
kiln.
- Store a work in progress properly.
- Use the slip and score method to attach two pieces of moist clay together.
Time for Tiles
With the help of illustrations, your leader, or another adult, decorate
squares of clay with stamps, patterns, graffito (decorating on clay by
scratching to the surface below), burnishing, filigree, carving, or
modeling. If you can, visit museum collections displaying works of clay and
ceramics from other cultures and countries.
Fuel and Fire
Visit a professional potter's studio, or invite a potter or ceramist to a
group or troop meeting. Ask about her craft. Include questions about how to
use a kiln, the oven used for hardening clay.
Grin and Glaze It!
Decorate bisque ware (fired and unglazed ceramic clay). Ask your leader,
teacher, or crafts supply salesperson about the effects of underglazes,
glazes, or overglazes; the colors of each glaze when they dry; and the
opaqueness or shininess of the glaze. Experiment with different glazing
techniques; dip, sponge, or paint. Then glaze a piece. Follow instructions
so that your glaze will not stick to the kiln shelf and so that lids will
not stick to pots during the glaze firing. Note: If you want to use your
bisque ware as a serving piece for food, it must be glazed at least on the
inside in order to be safe.
Bas-relief
Bas-relief is a form of sculpture that partially sticks out from a flat
surface. Create a three-dimensional figure from a plaster block by pouring
plaster onto a flat surface, such as a cookie sheet. Remove the plaster when
it has hardened and carve a design into it. Then make a bas-relief plaque by
rolling out a slab of clay over the plaster, mold, making sure the clay goes
into the parts you've carved out. Let the clay dry and separate it from the
plaster. Decorate with acrylic paints if you like.
Dream Decorator
Look at modern examples of ceramics and pottery by visiting department or
specialty stores with a friend, troop, or family members. Which of these
would you use in a room or space in your dream house?
Pass on the Knowledge
Help a younger Girl Scout or friend make pottery using any one of the
methods described above. Arrange to display the results.
Folk Pottery
Find 2 or 3 examples of folk sculpture or pottery at a museum, online, or in
magazines. Look for examples from a variety of cultures and places in this
and other countries. Observe how pieces from Africa or Asia, for example,
are different from those of Central America an the unit
ed States. If
possible, get pictures or reproductions of the works you are describing.
Label them by their titles, dates, and places of origin.
Choice Is Yours, The
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Share the Experience
In a small group, share a difficult decision you made. What things
influenced your decision? What helped you decide? what was the result of
your decision? What would you have done differently if you had had a second
chance?
Looking Ahead
Make a list of the important decisions you may have to make within the next
ten years. talk with at least 3 friends to find out about the kind of
decisions they think they will have to make. Compare their lists to your
own.
People Pressures
Create a poster of ways that people pressure or force others to do something
they many not want to do. One way might be someone saying, "Everybody's
doing it." Share your poster with others and role-play some positive
responses to such lines.
Deciding to Act
With your troop or group, decide on a service project. Make a list of
everyone's ideas. Discuss each idea. Come to an agreement about what you
will do and put your plan into action. Once your project is complete,
evaluate how it went. What changes might you make the next time?
Learning from Others
Ask family members and other adults how they make decisions. Can you think
of some other ways? Deicide which ways are helpful and which are not. Make a
list of reminders for when you make decisions.
Computer Game Choices
Play a computer simulation game that has decision-making built into it, such
as "The Sims", and discuss with others the consequences of the most
difficult decisions you made during the game.
Try It On for Size
Discuss the following situations and role-play what you would do if:
- A classmate offered you a cigarette on the way home from school
- A group of friends stopped by to visit you when no adults were home (your
parents don't permit you to have anyone over when you're home alone)
- Your family planned an outing on the same day as your best friend's
birthday party
- A bigger kid tried to bully you in the park
- Some of your friends started teasing a classmate
Make up your own situations and play them out.
Role Models
Think of the things and people that influence your decisions - for example,
friends, school, family, or the media. Star (*) the people on this list whom
you can approach when you need help in making a personal decision. What
makes these people special?
Learning by Example
Many children's stories and fables are about people who made the wrong
decisions and suffered, or who made the right one and were rewarded. Select
a story to read to a younger girl, and discuss the decisions in that story.
There Once Was a Girl...
Create a story about a girl who has trouble making an important decision and
share it with others.
"Collecting Hobbies"
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Building Your Collection
Before starting a collection, ask yourself the following questions. Write
down the answers and discuss them with your family or other adult.
- Is the hobby fun?
- Can I afford it?
- Do I have the space for it?
- Is it something that will not harm the environment?
Share Your Collection with Others
One of the best parts about having a collection is sharing it with others.
Arrange, display, or mount your collection so that you are able to show it
to others.
Meet Other Collectors
Find out what clubs, organizations, Web sites, or magazines are out there
for people with your hobby. If possible, meet and talk with other
collectors, or exchange e-mails to discuss your collection. Be sure to
follow the Online Safety Pledge you'll find on the "Just for Girls" section
of the Girl Scouts Web site.
Be the Expert About Your Hobby
Part of the fun of a collecting hobby is being an expert about what you are
collecting. Learn more about the items in your collection.
Organize a Hobby Fair
Get your collecting friends together and show off all of your collections at
a hobby fair. Invite your fellow collectors to display their collections in
small booths or stations in your school, in your backyard, anyplace!
Organize Your Hobby
Organize your collection, including the name or classification of each
object. List when you acquired the object, how much it cost or where you
found it, and something special about each item.
Go On A Treasure Hunt
Go on a hunt for pieces to add to your collection. Depending on your hobby,
you could attend a flea market, street fair, or auction; take a walk on the
beach; dig through your family's old letters; or go to an antique or
collector's shop.
Collect for the Communit
y
Sometimes collecting isn't just a hobby, it's a communit
y service. There are
many ways to help others by collecting. Collect clothes and donate them to a
charity, feed the hungry by organizing a food drive and collecting canned
goods, or keep your local park clean by collecting trash. These collections
are not meant to be kept or put on display; they're more useful when given
away.
Collecting Globally
Find out whether the items in your collection would be different if you
lived someplace else. Do you have a shell collection? Would your shells be
different in Mexico, for example, or in Indonesia? If possible, add to your
collection with items from other countries.
Generation to Generation
Sometimes grandparents, parents, or aunts and uncles will hand down their
collections. Some collections are in families for years and years. Perhaps
your family has a tradition of collecting. Ask members of your family if
they collect anything. If they do, what do they collect and how long have
they been doing it? Did someone in the family hand the collection down to
them? Offer to help carry on the tradition by contributing to the
collection, or share with them the things you've learned about collecting.
Communication
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Get the Message?
Think of a message you want to tell others. What's the best way to
communicate your ideas? Should you use words, images, colors? Show or read
your piece to others. Did they understand your message? If not, what could
you change so the they understand your message?
Signals
Put together a collage or poster with examples of different types of
communication, such as semaphore, sign language, signal flags, international
road signs, distress signals, or a referee's signals. Learn one set of the
above examples and teach it to someone else.
Communication by the Dots
In the Braille alphabet, a pattern of raised dots represents each letter of
the alphabet. A person who is blind can "read" with her fingertips by
feeling the raised letters. Below is an alphabet written in Braille. The
colored dots represent the raised dots. If you poke a pin through the back
of each of the colored dots (on a copy of the chart), you can raise the
letters. Try felling the pattern with your fingers. Now try to write your
own coded message using the Braille alphabet.
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Express Your View
Participate in a debate, or prepare and give a two-minute speech on a
favorite subject.
Share the News
Write a short news story about an event in your school or your troop. Submit
it to the school newspaper, your Girl Scout council newsletter, or the "Just
for Girls" section of the Web site for the Girl Scouts of the USA at
www.girlscouts.org/girls .
Play It!
Write a short play. Read a few scenes of your play aloud to others.
Brand Images
Notice all the advertising and commercial designs you see in a week, such as
billboards, posters, signs, and ads on packages. Look at how color,
lettering, and empty space are used. Create your own poster, sign or package
that uses what you've discovered.
Word of Mouth
Listen to several radio shows. Then create a script and sound effects for a
news program, music program, talk show, or another kind of program you
choose.
Making It Public
Thing about what kinds of communication would be needed to do public
relations work, then outline what you would do to promote one of the
following:
- A party to open an art exhibit that introduces a new artist to the
communit
y
- A tour of your communit
y to encourage business people to open stores.
- A presentation to show parents and children a new science center
- A ceremony for an awards presentation in your troop or group
- A conference for international visitors to introduce them to your
communit
y
Words for Life
Find out about careers in communication. Choose one of the following and
explain why it could be an interesting job.
- Reporter
- Editor
- Speech therapist
- Interpreter
- TV broadcaster
- Web writer
- Audiologist
- Linguist
Computer Fun
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Get Set Up
If you have a computer at home, this is a must! Read about how to "stay
tuned up" in the "explore and Discover" chapter of your Junior Girl Scout
Handbook. Evaluate your computer ergonomics. Create a healthier work
environment for yourself and for others who use the computer. Read the
Online Safety Pledge in the "How to Stay Safe" chapter of the handbook and
make sure you and your family sign it.
Just the Basics
Learn how to do basic computer operations. Demonstrate your ability to do
the following; create a document using a word-processing programs, save a
document, add numbers or bullets to a list, use the spell-check function,
print out stored information.
Computer Artist
You can be an artist using the computer. Use graphics or photo software to
do one of the following:
- Create an illustration or design that can be saved and inserted in to a
document or used as a screensaver.
- Lear to rotate, crop, size, sharpen, and brighten a photo from a scanned
or digital file.
After you have your picture, you could use it as a screensaver, illustrate
something you have written, or use it in a larger product, such as a quilt
or memory book.
Desktop Publishing
Create a newsletter on your computer. Include a theme, a banner headline,
columns, text wrapping, clip art or picture, boxed text, and page numbers.
Save it and print it for others to read.
Fun and Games
Help put on a demonstration of computer games and software for your troop or
a group of younger girls. Select the games or software for content, the age
of the participants, educational value, and enjoyment.
Review the Products
Be a computer software reviewer. Pick out at last tow software programs to
review that were written for kids. Compare your evaluation with that of the
experts in a software review magazine. How are the reviews the same as or
different from yours? Would you use reviews to help choose software? Why or
why not?
Get Practical
Use a software program to do something that will save you time, teach you
something, or get organized. Checkout additional ideas for this activity in
the section about getting connected in the "Explore and Discover" chapter of
your Junior Girl Scout Handbook.
What's Available?
Visit a computer store. Compare different kinds of personal computing
systems. Ask someone to help you determine the basic options for a family
computer, including printers and other hardware. Don't forget to compare the
costs. Decide which system would be the best for you.
OR
Read at least 3 computer magazines. Decide what information would be helpful
to your family if you were going to purchase, upgrade, or expand the
usefulness of a computer.
On The Job
Interview 4 different people and find out how they use computers in their
jobs.
Comparison Shopping
Find out about the different products that people use to conduct business,
stay connected, or hook up to the Internet when they are away from their
offices.
Consumer Power
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Shop Around
Pick an item you'd like to buy. Find out what 3 different stores, catalogs,
or web sties charge for the exact same item. Which one sells it the most
cheaply? Don't forget to add the cost of taxes and any shipping charges that
apply.
Comparison Shop
Different companies make different versions of the same item. Pick something
you'd like to buy and compare models made by 3 different manufacturers.
Which one gives you the most of your money? Which one suits your needs the
best?
Stretch the Dollar
Play this game with a friend. Pick a reason to shop: for a friend's birthday
present, for back-to-school supplies, or for a holiday gift for a family
member. Give yourself a set dollar amount. Then head to the store, armed
with a pencil and pad. Who can find the most interesting or useful items for
the at amount of money?
Compare Stores
Not all stores are created equal. Pick 3 stores and compare:
- Which offers the best return policy?
- Which stands by its product if it falls apart a week later? A month later?
- Which treats you with the most respect?
Your Dollars
Look at 2 or 3 different ads that are aimed at kids your age. They can be on
TV, on radio, or in print. Name 3 techniques that they use to get your
attention. Are they successful?
Your Parents' Dollars
Look at 2 or 3 ads aimed at adults. Name 3 techniques that they use to try
to get an adult's attention. Do you think they're successful? Ask an adult
what they thing about the ads.
Tie-Ins
When a new movie, singer, athlete, or TV show is "hot", other companies use
it to help them sell their products. Pick your favorite singer, movie,
athlete, or TV show and use it to sell products that you make up.
Name Game
Pick an item that's good, but not very popular. With your friends, family,
or troop, rename it. Give it a name that's guaranteed to get people's
attention, and make it popular!
Pennies Count
Every day for a month, at the end of the day, take the pennies out of your
pocket, backpack, or wallet and keep them someplace safe, like a jar or bowl
in your room. Whatever you do, don't spend it! At the end the month count
your pennies. How much money did you "earn"? It really adds up, doesn't it?
When You Need to Complain
Practice writing an effective complaint letter to a company that makes
something you bought. In the letter, explain why the item you bought was
disappointing. Try to remain unemotional, using only the facts to support
your argument.
Cookie Connection, The
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Five Ways to Sell a Cookie
With the help of your Girl Scout friends, figure out five new ways or places
to sell Girl Scout cookies. Can you sell them at a communit
y fair,
neighborhood recreation center, or holiday parade? With the help of an
adult, contact people who can help you find a place for your Girl Scout
cookie sale. Remember, Girl Scouts are prohibited from selling cookies over
the Internet.
Cookie Know-How
Good sales people know all about their merchandise (products). Do you know
all about Girl Scout cookies/ What are the ingredients? How many calories do
they contain? How long have Girl Scouts been selling cookies as a way to
earn money for their activities? In your troop or group meetings, answer
these and other questions that you come up with. Also, be prepared to tell
your customers what your troop or group plans to do with the money it earns.
"Tough Cookies"
Knowing how to deal with the public is an important part of being a sales
person. You should always be polite and say "Thank you"< even if someone
doesn't buy anything. With your troop or group, think of several situations
that might come up when you are selling cookies and how you will handle
them.
Make Cookie Sales Count
With your troop or group, develop a plan for what to do with the money you
earn from cookie sales. Brainstorm several projects or activities. Estimate
the costs of each activity by finding out about admission fees,
transportation, etc. Figure out how many boxes of cookies you would need to
sell to do one of these activities. Work out a plan for reaching your goal
and chart your progress. Check out the section on creating a budget in the
"Adventures in Girl Scouting" chapter of your Junior Girl Scout Handbook for
help.
From Field to Food Shop
With your troop or group, talk about different jobs connected to food, from
growing it to packaging and selling it. Some examples are farmer, baker,
advertiser, distributor, shipper, graphic artist, truck driver, and
dietitian. Invite someone to a meeting to talk about her food-related job
and what the job involves.
Cookies Under Wraps
Be a good neighbor. Buy several boxes of Girl Scout cookies with your troop
or group money and wrap them in pretty paper to give as gifts throughout the
year. You might take them to a senior citizens center, or to a family who
just moved to your neighborhood. Use this as an opportunit
y to meet new
friends and make them feel welcomed.
Safe Sales
Make a list of safety rules for selling Girl Scout cookies. Check the
activity guides from this and previous years, as they have many good tips.
Your leader or parents can get those for you. Then, brainstorm other safety
rules, tips, and ideas. Write them on a poster and hang it where everyone
can see it. Review the rules throughout the time you are working on the Girl
Scout cookie sale. Here are two rules you might post
- Always sell cookies with an adult present.
- Never leave money from cookie sales lying around where it can get lost or
stolen.
Cookie Creativity
Have a cookie party and get creative! See how many adjectives your group can
come up with to describe Girl Scout cookies. Create memorable slogans. For
example, try "Sensational Samoas!" or "Think Thin Mints!" Turn your best
ideas into posters and advertisements.
Be Bold
With your troop or group, design a giant poster or display for your cookie
campaign that is suitable for a mall, public building, or other place where
many people will see it. You will have to get permission from store owners
or public officials to do this. Create a design that is colorful and that
includes information about he cookies and about the program activities that
are supported by selling cookies.
Cookies Across Cultures
Are cookies as "American as apple pie"? Cookies are very popular in Girl
Scouting and in this country. Find out about eh kinds of cookies that are
popular in a culture other than your own. Are they eaten after school,
served for holidays, or reserved for other special occasions? Find a recipe
you like from another culture in an international or regional cookbook, and
bake a batch of cookies. Sample them with friends and family.
Court Sports
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Warm Up
It is important to warm up before you take part in sports and fitness
activities. Develop a warm-up and cool-down routine (at least five minutes
long) to use before and after playing. Learn 3 stretches for your upper body
and 3 for your lower body.
Juliette On the Court
Did you know that Girl Scouts have been playing basketball since 1912? What
did they wear when girls couldn't wear trousers or shorts in public? How
were rules or equipment different?
Keeping Track
Learn how to keep score in a court sport. How are points earned? Attend a
game in your unit
and keep your own score of the match or game. Watch the
official scorekeepers at work. Or watch a match on TV and see if you agree
with the official scorers.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Great athletes regularly practice the basics of their sport. Choose a sports
skill you'd like to improve. For example, you could practice your volleys,
serves, spike shots, free throws, or forehand. For one week, spend 30
minutes a day practicing and notice how much you improve.
Play Ball
Play a court sport 2 days a week for 3 weeks. Practice with a friend, play
at school, or join a local team. After the 3 weeks, you'll know if this is a
sport for you. Like it? Great! Not a good fit? Try another one.
Same Sport, Different Court
Some court sports, such as tennis can be played on different court surfaces.
What are the 3 surfaces tennis is played on? How are they maintained? How
does the surface affect the player's game? If possible, play tennis on 2
different types of courts.
Tell it Like It Is!
Be a sportswriter. Watch a high school, college, or professional women's
court sport. Take notes during the game so you can write a short article
about it. Who Won? What was the score? What were the exciting moments? Who
were the stars? Think of a fun title for your story. If possible, compare
your story with a newspaper article about the game and see what you can
learn from the pros in the media.
World of Sports
Court sports are played all over the world. Some sports, such as badminton
and squash, are popular in other countries buy may not be as well known in
the U.S. Pick one of these not-so-common court sports. Find out all about it
- a brief history of the sport, the countries where it's popular, and women
who are star players. Try playing it if you can.
Be a Role Model
Choose a professional female athlete you admire. Pretend you are that
athlete and give a 15 minute talk to a group of Daisy or Brownie Girl
Scouts. In your presentation, talk about:
- Who you are, what sport you play, and why you are here today
- One of the highlights in your career
- Three reasons why sports and fitness are good for girls
- One of the most important skills of your sport
The more you can learn about the athlete you have chosen, the more
interesting your talk will be!
A Winning Combination
Many court sports can be adapted so that people with special needs can play,
too. Find out if your recreation or communit
y center offers court sports for
players with disabilities. Talk to the coach or instructor to find out if
and how the court and the rules have been adapted. If you can, volunteer to
help at a session.
Creative Solutions
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
The Chinese Tangram
The tangram is a puzzle made of seven geometric pieces: five triangles, one
square, and one rhomboid (parallelogram). The seven pieces can be arranged
to create over 300 forms of people, animals, flowers, boats, each. Make your
own tangram puzzle out of paper, cardboard, poster board or wood (see
illustration). Then use it to create at least five different things. There
are only two rules: 1) Use all seven pieces on a flat surface. 2) Pieces
should touch but not overlap. Make copies of the seven geometric pieces, and
work with other girls to see what they can create with the tangram.
Change Directions
Change your routine for a week. Breaking your routines can help you see
things in a new way. Pick one or two things you do the same way or at the
same time every day - where or when you do your homework, the way you get
dressed, the first thing you do in the morning, the last thing you do at
night. Think of a different way, a different time, or a different order of
doing each thing. Then make the changes and see if you feel any different.
Ordinary Items, Extraordinary Uses
Here are ordinary items people use every day: paper clips, rubber band,
toothbrush, flashlight, safety pin, bandage, socks, plain white unlined
paper. Select 3 of the items and think of seven unusual ways they can each
be used. Have a contest with friends. Set a timer for 45 seconds. Who can
come up with the most uses for any one item in that time? Pick another
item and reset the timer. Who wins this round?
Historical Insight
Find out about one of the women listed below who helped solve a problem in
her society. Find a way to share her achievements with others.
- Clara Barton
- Ida B. Wells
- Sarah Winnemucca
- Rachel Carson
- Dolores Huerta
- The Trung Sisters
- Fannie Farmer
- Juliette Gordon Low
- Jane Addams
- Bessie Coleman|
- Susan B. Anthony
Alternative Solutions
With a group of friends, select tow stories, fairy tales, films, TV Shows,
or plays that you have all seen or read. Discuss the story line and the
major character and her conflict in each. Come up with 3 or 4 other
solutions to each situation.
How Others Solve Problems
People are often hired for their problem-solving ability. Speak to at least
one person who frequently has problems to solve on the job. The person you
talk to could be, for example, an engineer, manager, plumber, computer
software designer, teacher, or carpenter. Ask that person to identify one
problem she has had to solve and how she solved it.
Local, National, and Global Problem Solving
With your friends, family, or Girl Scout troop, come up with list of
ten local, national, or global problems. You might list things like
environmental pollution, crime, or overcrowded schools. A local problem
could be your communit
y center's need for a basketball court. Then, select
one item from your list and come up with 3 ways to help your communit
y (or
the larger society) deal with that problem.
Shipwrecked on an Island
You are shipwrecked on a tropical island and have no idea when you will be
rescued. The island is uninhabited but there is a stream of fresh water. If
you could have one person and five items (but no boat) with you, who and
what would you choose? Why? What choices would your friends or family make?
Are they similar to yours?
Coded Language
With a friend or two, invent your own coded language. Create an alphabet
using signs, symbols, pictures, or even letters from the English alphabet.
You could add some foreign words to represent other words or phrases. Write
a message using your secret code. Be sure to make a dictionary that explains
your coded alphabet.
Create a World
The year is 2040. You are mayor of the first international town on the newly
colonized planet, Zepton. The people who have come there from different
places, races, and religions, want to create a society of peace and harmony.
Describe the laws you would create and what else you would do to achieve
such a society.
Dance
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Watch Their Moves
You can learn a lot about dance by watching how people (and animals) move.
Watch two of the following and use your observations to choreograph or
design an original dance
- A group of young children playing
- Animals at the zoo, such as monkeys, elephants, birds, seals and reptiles
- People on a crowded bus or train, some on their way to or from work
- Dancers rehearsing in a yoga, ballet, or modern dance class
- An athletic team warming up and playing a sport
Moods and Moves
Watch how people move when they are sad, happy, angry, or lost in thought.
Use mood and movement to portray a story or scene through dance.
Step, Stamp, Stomp!
Tap dance - sometimes called dancing on the "souls" of your feet - is a form
of dance that accents fancy footwork. With the help of a tape, books or a
class, learn 3 of these basic tap dance steps: step, stomp, scuff, brush,
and leap. Practice on your own or with a buddy. Wear tap shoes or shoes with
hard soles.
Dance Watcher
Attend a dance performance, watch one on TV, or observe a dance class. How
do the dancers' movements match the music? Do the costumes make it more
interesting? What did you like most?
Dance Around The World
Explore the dance of a country other than your own. Not sure where to start?
There are Latin Dances such as the cha-cha, rumba, tango, merengue, and
salsa; the Spanish flamenco dance; folk dances, such as the Polynesian hula,
Israeli hora, Russian kazatzka, Polish mazurka, and Italian tarantella; High
Life jazz dances of West Africa; and classical Indian or Indonesian dances.
Learn the steps of at least one of those dances well enough to teach it to a
friend or group.
Lines and Squares
In line dancing, dancers are arranged in a line, side by side. Each person
performs intricate steps to the beat of music. In square dancing, groups of
8 form a square, with each person with a partner, in starting position. A
square dance "caller" calls out the patterns to perform and all the partners
follow. In your troop or group, attend or put together your own square dance
or line dance. Invite friends and family of all ages.
Country and Western Dancing
Country dancing is fast-paced and musical. Some of the dances that make up
country dancing, such as kicker dancing, cowboy dancing, and Western
dancing, can be done in couples or as line dances. "Partners" dress in
cowboy fashion, from boots to hats. Create a country and western theme dance
event, with decor and food to match.
Belle of the Ball
Ballroom dances have steps that make up a "figure". Once the figure is
learned, ballroom dancers work at repeating the figure more gracefully or
with added steps. Learn one classical ballroom dance, like a waltz, fox
trot, or box step.
Dance Through the Decades
Swing dancing peaked during the "big band" era in the 1940's and 1950's.
Rock and roll in the 1950's and 1960's introduced new dance forms, as did
disco music in the 1970's. Do some dance research. Ask older relatives and
other adults about the dance forms of their youth - were they 50's swingers?
60's twisters? 70's disco queens? Hold a theme night with your troop or a
family dance night.
Dance Party
With your troop, group, or others, hold a dance party. Choose a place that
is safe, spacious, and won't be too loud for neighbors. Try to involve all
of the guests in the dancing. If one of the guests has a physical
disability, think of ways to include her. Pick someone to act as disc jockey
(DJ) and select and arrange all the tapes and CD's. Be sure to test the
sound system ahead of time!
Discovering Technology
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Just for Practice
use a software program to build or design something, or map something.
All Things Digital
Chips aren't just in cookies! They are in computers, clocks, coffee makers,
cars, even toys. With your troop, group, friends, or family, divide into two
teams. Each team creates a list of 20 things that have a computer chip in
them. Swap lists. Each team then searches for the items. When you meet
again, see who has found the most items.
Find the Inventions
There are lots of hobbies and activities you can do that use technology. Do
the "Test Yourself: Find the Inventions" activity in the "Create and Invent"
chapter of the Junior Girl Scout Handbook.
Outdoors Technology
Read the sports section of the "Be Healthy, Be Fit" chapter of your Junior
Girl Scout Handbook. Find examples of the uses of technology outdoors and in
sports activities.
Technology to Wear
Visit an artisan who makes useable or wearable art, such as jewelry,
clothing, or pottery. Find out what technologies are used and how those
technologies (specific tools, machinery, materials) have changed through
history. Find out if the technologies have been adapted or improved upon by
different cultures. Discuss the differences between a product made by an
artisan and a product that is made by a machine.
The Inner Workings
Under the guidance of an adult, pick an item and learn how to put it
together, take it apart, care for it, or make simple repairs to it. Some
suggestions:
- Hook up and care for a computer and its various hardware attachments,
including the printer.
- Hook up and care for a sound system, including the speakers.
- Take care of and change a battery in an eclectic toothbrush, a watch,
clock, or kitchen appliance.
- Maintain a bicycle, including the tires, moving parts, and brake system.
Tools to Make Life Easier
With the help of an adult, compare the following items to their simpler
counterparts. Which item is more useful? Which is easier to use? Discuss
your findings with your group or peers.
- An electric screwdriver vs. a manual screwdriver
- An electric can opener vs. a manual can opener
- A flashlight vs. a candle
- A computer vs. a pencil
- A car vs. a horse and wagon
- Man-made fleece vs. wool
Recycling Technology
Where do garbage and recycled products go? How do you get rid of obsolete
machines? Find out how things are recycled in your communit
y by doing one of
the following:
- Visit a recycling center or landfill facility and find out what materials
are recycled and where they go.
- Pick a product, such as a toy, a piece of clothing, a personal computer,
motor oil, or a car. Find out what the options re for recycling or disposing
of this product in your communit
y - other than a trip to the landfill. Find
a way to encourage your family or communit
y to recycle.
-Find at least 3 products made from recycled materials (You can check out
catalogs, the Internet, or your local mall for ideas). Compare those
products with products made from non-recycled materials in terms of price
and usability.
The Future Is Here
Investigate a new or developing type of technology that looks exciting to
you. Some examples: computer sensory recognition (voice, handwriting, or
optical), distance learning nanotechnology, gene therapy, or robotics.
What are the strengths of the technology? What are its drawbacks? How might
you use it in your life? When will it be practical (in terms of cost, ease
of use, and safety) or is it practical already? If possible, visit a
technology fair, trade show, or showroom for a company that specializes in
technology. Or visit a museum that focuses on technology, investigate
products online, or in technology related magazines.
Then and Now
Discover how technology has changed the way things are done. Pick at least 3
careers and find out how technology is used in each of them. Has technology
changed the jobs, or the way the jobs are performed? Share your findings
with your troop or group by role playing, participating in a panel
discussion, or hosting a discussion by people in those professions.
"Doing" Hobbies
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Handmade Especially for You
Use your hobby to make a gift for someone. If you sing, you can sing that
person a song. If you read, you can read a story to that person.
The Right Fit
Ask yourself these questions about your hobby and discuss the answers with
an adult family member or other adult.
- Is it fun?
- Can I afford it?
- Where will I do it?
- Can I do it alone or with others?
- Do I have time for it?
- Are there safety or environmental factors to consider?
Learning a "Doing" Hobby
Practice your hobby. Demonstrate or try to teach your hobby to others.
Hobbies in the Past
Learn something about the history of your hobby and about others who share
your hobby.
Your Hobby: A Possible Career
Sometimes the skills you learn from your hobby are skills you will use in a
future career. Find out about 3 kinds of careers that are related to your
hobby. How are they different? How are they the same? Can you see yourself
in one of them?
Do Your Hobby with Others
Participate in an activity with other people who also share your hobby. For
example, sing with a musical group, hike with your troop/group members, play
an instrument in a band, join a bird-watching club, or go to a garden or
flower exhibit.
What in the World Are You "Doing"?
What do people do as a hobby in other countries? Choose a country other than
the U.S. and find out about a hobby that's popular there. You can use the
Internet or your local library to get information. Or ask someone who has
lived in or traveled to that country to tell you what she/he knows about
hobbies in that unit
. If possible, try the hobby yourself.
Give Back
Sometimes your hobby will allow you to do something for your communit
y
or the environment. For example, if your hobby is gardening, volunteer to
help plant flowers at your local park. If you like to read, read out loud to
a senior citizen who has trouble reading the small print of the newspaper.
Find a way to "give back" to your communit
y through your hobby.
Hobby Together
Find out about organizations and clubs that promote your hobby. If you have
a hobby, there is probably a club for it. For example, there are clubs for
sports (with members from beginners to experts), reading, knitting, and
photography.
Find a New One
Many activities in your Junior Girl Scout Handbook would make great hobbies.
Find an activity that interests you and find out more about it as a
potential hobby,.
Drawing and Painting
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Media Savvy
Explore different types of media: paints, crayons, pastels, chalk, felt-tip
markers, ink pens, colored pencils, charcoal, or computer programs for
drawing and painting. Choose 3 types of media and make 3 different pictures
of the same thing using a different medium each time. How does the use of
different media change the picture?
Primary - Secondary
Learn the primary and secondary colors. Practice mixing primary and
secondary colors to make new colors. Make a picture that uses the colors you
have created.
No Brushes
Experiment with 2 different painting techniques. You can try: finger
painting, sponge painting, string painting (dip string in paint and make a
design on your paper with the wet string), or spatter painting (where you
put a toothbrush in paint and knock it against a small screen or hard edge
to "spatter" the paint on paper.
What's Your Line?
Make two pictures that show different uses of lines. Experiment with
pencils, felt-tip markers, crayons, or pieces of chalk to get different
kinds of lines: thick, thin, straight, curved, broken, vertical, horizontal,
and diagonal. Color in between the lines if you choose.
In Shape
Use shapes to make a picture. Look at an object or scene and try to find the
basic shapes: Triangle, Circle, Square, Rectangle, etc. What shapes would
you use to make a human being? What shapes would you use to make a flower?
Shades of Color
Create two pictures showing many shade of the same color. What do darker
shades do? What do lighter shades do? How can you use color to make
something appear closer or farther away in your picture?
It's How You Look At It
Find out about perspective. Look at something far away. Measure it with your
fingers or a ruler. How big is it? What happens if you move closer to the
object? How can you show this on paper? Draw or paint a picture in which you
use perspective.
On the Wall
Murals are pictures painted on walls. Murals usually tell a story in a
series of scenes and may be painted by groups of artists. Decide with your
group what the design of your mural will be. Sketch it out on a piece of
graph paper. You can make a mural using a long roll of white paper or
butcher paper. First, cover the floor with newspapers. Then, stretch your
paper on top of them. Next, block out parts of the mural on the rolled on
the rolled out paper using your sketch as a guide. Each painter may be
responsible for her own section or painters can work together on each part
before starting the next.
On Your Own
Create an art gallery or art show where you can display your work and those
of others.
Women Who Paint
Read an article,, watch a TV show or video, or look online and find out
about a woman artist. How did she get involved in the arts? How has she
achieved success?
Earth Connections
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Be an Ecologist: Your Study unit
visit a natural unit
near where you live, such as a park or campsite. Mark out
an unit
that is no larger than 20 paces square. This will be the "ecosystem" or
communit
y that you will study.
- List the plants and animals you observe in your ecosystem. Or count the number
of different types present
- Determine if you have different levels of plant life in your ecosystem, such
as groundcover, shrubs, and trees.
- How do you think the different levels affect each other?
- Using a thermometer that measure air temperature, or your hand, take or feel
the temperature at ground level and chest level in at least 3 different places
in your ecosystem. Where is it the warmest, coolest? What causes differences in
temperature?
- Dig a small hole in the soil and note the different layers of soil. Feel and
find out if there are differences in what the soil is made of and how it feels.
Traveling through Time
Ecological succession (when one communit
y replaces another over a period of
time) is a natural process of change. A pond might fill in to become a meadow or
a meadow might grow into a forest. Think of yourself as a time traveler. Draw
what you might see in the future for 2 of the following sites:
- Lake or pond that has a marshy unit
at one end
- Fallen tree
- Vacant lot or a meadow
- Burned Forest
Identify that Tree
Learn to identify ten tree species using leaves, seeds, fruit, and bark as a
means of identification. Describe the kind of ecosystem where each is likely to
be found.
Reading the Rings
Find a tree stump where you can read the growth rings. A year's growth consists
of a light and a dark ring. In order to figure out how old a tree was when it
died, count each dark ring and add five to the total number (for the early years
when growth is hard to see). Look for years of rapid growth (wider rings) and
years of slow growth. What might have caused the differences in growth years?
Eco-Games
Help others understand relationships within an ecosystem by playing a game that
shows how plants and animals depend upon each other. Games for Girl Scouts might
help you.
Saving Animals and Plants
Visit a zoo or game preserve. Find out why the zoo or preserve exists, and if
the zoo or preserve is doing any research to learn about and preserve species.
Adapt or Perish
Look for some examples of ways that plants or animals have developed or adapted
in order to survive in their habitat. you might consider environments with
little water or lots of water, those that are very hot or very cold, or even
those environments that have been changed by humans.
Plants and People
Learn to identify five different plants that are native to your unit
. Find out
if American Indians or early pioneers used these plants for food, medicine, or
something else, such as bedding or fuel. (Do not pick or eat any plants that you
are studying without the supervision or permission of an adult).
Observing Change
Find out how animal or plant groups change. Make observations over a period of
time by doing one of the following:
- Return to your study unit
during a different season and make the same
observations. Look for examples of change.
- Keep track of the kinds and numbers of birds coming to a feeding station or
special spot over several months. Are there differences at different times of
the year?
- Choose a tree in your unit
. Record the changes you observe during a school
year. Include signs of change, visitors, and anything else you notice.
Earth as an Ecosystem
Most environmental problems don't stop at state or country boundaries. Consider
one of the following problems and learn what is being done in this country and
abroad to protect the earth's ecosystems:
- Air pollution
- Mass cutting down of trees in rain forests
- Oil spills
- Over-fishing
- Running out of landfill sites for garbage
Come up with some ideas about what you might do as a creature in the earth's
ecosystem to help ensure the survival of your habitat, and act on one of them.
Eco-Action Badge
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Green Team
Start your own eco-action club with friends and family members. What simple
things can you do to reduce pollution? Use less water or electricity? Produce
less garbage? Damage the environment less? Create an eco-action pledge and
decide on a way for everyone to do two of these Earth-friendly things over a
two-week period. When the two-week period is up, club members should meet to
share their experiences and renew their pledges to help the environment.
Continue to meet as long as you like working on Earth-friendly projects.
Plant A Tree
Trees not only look beautiful, they also provide shade, act as a wind or sound
break, add oxygen to the air, prevent soil erosion, and provide food and shelter
to many animals - including humans. take part in a tree-planting activity. None
scheduled? with permission, plant one or more trees in a place where someone
agrees to take care of them, such as your backyard, your schoolyard, or at a
communit
y center.
Every Drop Counts
People, plants, and animals need clean water to survive. Do something to
conserve water, such as:
- Distribute free water-saving devices for showerheads,
toilet tanks, or faucets to people you know in your communit
y. Get
these from a local government conservation
agency.
- Ask your local fire station to provide fire hydrant
sprinkler caps so that the kids in your neighborhood can cool off in the
summer without wasting too much water.
What's Watt
Just how much electricity do your family appliances use? Look at the wattage
information on each appliance you use - it's usually on the back or side of the
appliance. Then multiply the wattage by the number of hours your family uses the
appliance each day. Don't forget to count the watts used by light bulbs. Do this
for three days. Which appliances use the most electricity?
Start the Presses!
With a group of friends, give people the scoop on environmental issues in your
neighborhood by publishing a newspaper. You'll need reporters, a photographer or
artist, a designer, and an editor to make sure the copy is interesting and
accurate. Create a name for your newspaper. Work with your " staff" to cover
stories that are important to your communit
y.
Trashy Art
People produced tons of garbage every day but cities are running our of places
to put it. Help reduce the amount of garbage you produce. make a work of
art by using some of the stuff you would ordinarily throw away. Get creative!
Let your imagination turn things such as bottle caps, old game pieces, milk
jugs, and packaging into "masterpieces." Want to do more for the environment?
Hold a trashy art show with pieces made by your friends, family or troop
members.
Paper Rules!
Plastic takes about 500 years to break down, yet paper takes only six
months. Encourage your communit
y to use less plastic by creating an advertising
campaign on brown paper bags. Collect at least ten large brown grocery bags in
good shape. Decorate each bag with an environmental message. Donate the bags to
a neighborhood store so that they can be reused.
Clean and Healthy
Make a difference. Improve the environment in your communit
y by doing an
Earth-friendly service project, such as:
- Joining or starting a project to label storm drains
that empty into streams and rivers.
- Helping to control soil erosion in a park.
- Educating the communit
y about noise pollution.
You "Auto Know"
Many states require that vehicles be tested for emissions -- what comes out of
the tailpipe -- to make sure they are not polluting the air more than the law
allows. If you live in one of those states, go along when your family car is
inspected to find out what and how auto emissions are monitored.
Women's Work
Learn about a woman who was or is a champion of the environment. Find our how
she became interested in helping the Earth, what she did, and how she prepared
herself to reach her goal. Ask a librarian or teacher for help locating books
and videos on women who have helped the environment. Don't forget to "surf the
Net", too!
Environmental Health
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Sun Sensations
A Sunny day is often the sign for outdoor fun. Before you go out, protect
yourself. Have a sun safety fashion show with a group of friends. Include items
like sunscreen with UV protection of at least 15, lip balm, sunglasses that
protect from UVA/UVB rays, umbrellas, a wide brim hat, and a cotton shirt as
part of the show. When developing your "sun safety look" be stylish and
creative. Almost anything goes as long as it helps protect you from the sun.
The Sun Squad
Create a "Sun Squad". Find young people with whom to go out in the communit
y and
educate people about sun health. Create a "sun sense" quiz: provide people with
the facts about sunscreen and other ways they can protect themselves from the
damaging rays of the sun. With an adult, patrol beaches, lakes, or pools to get
the word out.
Water Water Everywhere
You need water to live. Learn the different ways to conserve water. With a group
of friends, develop a Top 10 list of different ways you can conserve water and
keep it clean, such as recycling water from fish tanks by using it to water
plants.
Going' Fishing?
With an adult, find out if the fishing spots in your unit
are clean. Look for
warning signs posted around the unit
. Or call your local or state Health
Department or the Environmental Protection Agency and ask which waters are safe.
Find out about the kind of testing done on the waters. Share your findings with
your friends and family.
Get the Word Out
Create a commercial that encourages people to focus on environmental health.
Pick one of the following topics: sun safety, noise pollution, water health,
safe waste disposal, or air quality. Create a catchy slogan and provide
information on how to find out more about that issue.
"Block the Spread of Lead" Relay
A "lead blocker" is a food that is high in calcium and iron, such as spinach or
milk. These help protect your body from the harmful effects off lead. Try this
game to learn more about "lead blockers:"
A. Divide into 2 teams and give each team a basket or bucket
B. Place at least 10 food items, some high in calcium and iron, and some low in
these nutrients, around the room
C. The game begins when someone shouts, "Block the spread of lead!"
D. The first person for each team grabs the bucket and races to pick up one item
that she thinks is a "lead blocker." Then she races back and hands the bucket to
a teammate.
E. The game continues until the players think they have all the "lead blockers:
F. A team gets one point for each "lead blocker." A team loses a point if they
have a food product high in fat, like chips. The team with the most points win.
Environmental Times
With a group of friends, brainstorm a list of important environmental issues in
your communit
y. Create an environmental newspaper. Ask an environmentalist, a
reporter, or an editor to help you with your paper. Share your paper with family
and friends.
Smoke Free
Second-hand smoke affects the air you breathe and puts your health at risk. With
your troop or group, work on a "smoke-out" day for your communit
y. Contact
organizations like the American Cancer Society, Tobacco-Free Kids, or The
American Lung Association and find out what's planned for your unit
. Or try a
"smoke-out: day with your family if one or more of your family members is
currently a smoker.
Every Breath Counts
Asthma is a condition that causes a person's airways to get smaller and makes it
difficult to breath. Environmental conditions such as second-hand smoke and
pollution can trigger an asthma attack. Come up with a list of at least 5 other
things that can cause an asthma attack. How can you improve the environment to
help reduce asthma triggers? Talk to a doctor or to someone who has this
condition, or go online for more information.
Get the Lead Out
Find out about the dangers of lead. What are the three biggest sources of lead
poisoning? How can lead poisoning be prevented? How can it be treated? Contact
the Environmental Protection Agency, the Center for Disease Control, or your
local doctor to get information.
Field Sports
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Finding Your Way
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
First Aid
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Folk Arts
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Family Portrait
Before the days of instant and digital cameras, painters often traveled
around, stopping to make pictures of families wherever they were asked.
Often, they were asked to include details that were important to the family.
Draw or paint a picture of yourself or your family as an artist might have
done it before cameras were invented. Include some things that are dear to
you and your family, such as family heirlooms (valuable objects handed down
from generation to generation), favorite hobbies, toys, books, or
collections.
A Picture Tells a Thousand Thoughts
Look at some old photographs of your family or other people. Examine the
poses, clothes, and facial expressions. Do they seem different from what you
see in pictures taken recently? What do the pictures tell you about the
people and their lives? Write captions or a short about the pictures.
Tell a Story
Practice the art of storytelling. If possible, get together with a local
storyteller or children's librarian and ask how she/he keeps an audience
interested. Find a fairy tale, myth, or legend that you like. Practice
telling it out loud, as you would if you were rehearsing a part in a play.
Retell it, or part of it, to a group, perhaps at a special ceremony or
event.
Fancy Feet
Learn a folk dance. Teach a friend or troop members some folk steps and
dances.
Traditional Art
Learn an art form that was traditional for girls 75 years or more ago.
Complete a small project using that art form.
What Toys Tell Us
Find pictures of old children's toys or games, or visit a museum, historical
house, or antique store. Talk to grandparents or older relatives who grew up
in the pre-electronic age about the toys they played with as youngsters.
Folk Arts Around the Globe
Look for examples and pictures of traditional folk arts from at least 3
countries. Do a folk art project either by following written instructions or
by doing what someone teaches you.
A Feast of Folk Crafts
Work on a large folk art project that requires lots of helping hands, such
as a taffy pull, a kite flying festival, or a troop quilt.
Fresh and Original
Create a new folk art product, using handmade or store-bought items. Some
examples are adding enamel paint designs to old pottery or dishes, making
scented candles or soaps, making paper, or adding decorative items (beads,
buttons, ribbons, etc) to clothing. As with any project, use non-toxic
materials that meet safety standards.
Time Travel
Visit a place near you where antiques, historical crafts, or collections of
folk art are on display. You might visit museums, antique stores, or places
designated as historic landmarks. Find out how items on display were used in
the past.
Food, Fibers, and Farming (click here for requirements)
Food Power
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Frosty Fun
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Fun and Fit
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Girl
Scouting Around the World
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Thinking Day
Thinking Day falls on February 22 each year. Lord Robert Baden-Powell, the
founder of Boy Scouting, and his wife, Lady Olave Baden-Powell had the same
birthdays on that day, so February 22 was chosen as a time for Girl Scouts and
Girl Guides to celebrate international friendship and world peace. Plan a way to
celebrate Thinking Day that recognizes your Girl Scout connection to girls
around the world.
WAGGGS on the Web
Check out the WAGGGS Web site www.wagggs.org
to find out about the different countries that are members of WAGGGS, and the
projects that are being sponsored by that organization. Share what you learned
with your troop, group, or other girls.
Show the World
Create a display that shows how Girl Scouts are part of a world sisterhood.
Exhibit your display for Girl Scout troops or groups, your Girl Scout council,
your school, or a local library.
Connect With Younger Girls
Create a game or storybook for younger Girl Scouts that will help them
understand their connection to Girl Scouts and Girl Guides around the world. Try
out your game or storybook at a neighborhood event, at camp, or at a bridging
ceremony for younger Girl Scouts.
Just for Girls
Go to the "Just for Girls" section of Girl Scouts of the USA's web site
www.girlcouts.org/girls of
information and activities regarding Girl Scouting around the world. Share what
you learned with your troop, group, or other girls.
Girl Scouting's Founder: Juliette Gordon Low
Find out about the Juliette Low World Friendship Fund. What does this fund do?
How do girls all around the world benefit from the money in the fund?
International Expert
Choose one country where Girl Guiding/Girl Scouting exists. Become an expert on
that country and the activities girl members do there. Learn a game, song,
craft, recipe, or activity unique to that country and share it with others.
World Service
Find out about a world problem that affects girls your age. you could think of a
problem related to the environment, hunger, poverty, illiteracy, or another
issue. Share what you have researched with other girls and think of some ways
girls in WAGGGS could help solve this problem.
Common Roots
Learn about the lives of Lord and Lady Baden-Powell. Also find out how the Girl
Guide movement came about. Share your information with members of your
troop/group or with a Brownie Girl Scout troop.
WAGGS Travel
WAGGGS has four World Centers that any Girl Scout can visit. Find out the
following about each of the four centers: Where is it? How can you get there?
What types of events and activities can a visitor take part in there? You can
find this information online at the WAGGGS Web site
www.wagggs.org
Girl Scouting In My Future
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Girls Scouting in the USA
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Global Awareness
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Globe-Trotting
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Healthier You, A
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
- Create at least two relay teams
- For each relay team you will need your sun safety gear: a hat with a wide brim, sunglasses, sunscreen, and an extra-large T-Shirt
- Define the relay starting and ending lines.
- Each team lines up in a straight line behind the starting line with the first person holding their safety gear in their hands.
- When the signal is give to start, the first girl in each team must put on a T-Shirt, hat, sunglasses, and put some sunscreen on her nose. Holding the sunscreen in her hand she runs to the finish line, and turns around and heads back to the staring point.
- When the first girl returns to the starting point, she passes the sunscreen to the next racer, removes all the "sun safety gear" and passes it to the next person. Teammates can help.
- That person then repeats the course, and she passes everything to the next person.
- The race continues until everyone on each team has had a turn.
- The team that finishes first wins.
Healthy Relationships
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
High on Life
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Highway to Health
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Hiker
To earn this badge, complete activities 1 and 10. You must also take at
least two all-day hikes or an overnight backpacking trip.
Horse Rider
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
Humans and Habitats
Complete any six of the following requirements to earn this badge:
