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Merit Badge Details Before beginning any Merit Badge Activity a Scout must first obtain a “Blue Merit Badge Card” from the Scout Master and contact the designated Counselor for the Merit Badge that they intend to work on. Many of the requirements for obtaining a Merit Badge maybe done under the guidance of a parent, guardian or someone with specialized knowledge regarding a specific Merit Badge area of interest. In this situation, the Scout should be prepared to demonstrate the knowledge or skills that they gained by submitting a completed Merit Badge Worksheet to either the Scout Master or a designated Merit Badge Counselor for review. Scouts will find all of the resources need to begin a Merit Badge activity on this site, this includes, Pamphlets, Worksheets, Counselor contact information and addition web related information. Please report any broken links or questions to Richard Odekirk. There are over 130 Merit Badges offered by the Boy Scouts of America which offer Scouts the opportunity to learn life skills and develop interests in many areas. If you would like to become a Merit Badge Counselor for Troop 220 please contact the Scout Master and complete an Counselor Application
American Business Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Entrepreneurship Merit Badge as it does require running a business for 3 months and the Entrepreneurship Merit Badge requires a component of determining how to start and run a business.
1a: Free Enterprise, the Economy, and Monetary Policy From the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas 1b: The Industrial Revolution 2e: Types of Business Insurances 4a: AFL-CIO Organizational Chart
015
BSA Advancement ID
4c: US Government Agencies: Labor Union Organizing
1967
Created Popularity
129
Difficulty
4
6a: E-Commerce Times An online news site specifically for the ecommerce community. 6b: Packaging Information for the Institute for Lifecycle Environmental Assessment
Counselors: Jeff Tonseth Richard Odekirk
The Unofficial American Business Merit Badge Website Insurance Information Institute
American Business Workbook
American Cultures The African American Registry The story of the first Negro Boy Scout Troop American Memory - Historic maps, photos, documents, audio and video from the Library of Congress Center for Applied Studies in American Ethnicity The Center for Equal Opportunity Center for the Study of White American Culture BSA Advancement ID
017
Created
1979
Popularity
111
Difficulty
3 - 4
LDS Scouting National Catholic Committee on Scouting National Jewish Committee on Scouting Project Race
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Famous Black Inventors
American Cultures Workbook
Inventor of the Week An excellent resource for worthy contributions to mankind Notable Hispanic Americans
American Heritage Nice merit badge to do in conjunction with an American History class in school or consider coupling the American Heritage Merit Badge ALONG WITH or BEFORE the Indian Lore Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 2b, 2c, 2d, 5a, & 5b National Register of Historic Places Historical Atlas of the 20th Century BSA Advancement ID
016
The flag of the United States of America
Created
1975
Purchase a U.S.Flag that has flown over the Capitol
Popularity
78
Difficulty
4
Our Flag - Frequently Asked Questions from the American Legion The Pledge of Allegiance - A Short History
Counselors: Troy Wies Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Fort McHenry - "Home of The Star-Spangled Banner"
American Heritage Workbook
American Labor Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the American Business merit badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 2, 5c, and 5d U.S. Department of Labor AFL-CIO Labor History Timeline (AFL-CIO) WWW Virtual Library Labor History BSA Advancement ID
121
Created
1987
Popularity
127
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Jeff Tonseth Richard Odekirk American Labor Workbook
Animal Science Most of the Animal Science Merit Badge can be done through books and research on the internet, however some planning and visits are required. Consider working on the Animal Science Merit Badge BEFORE working on the Veterinary Medicine Merit Badge and/or the Mammal Study Merit Badge.
Virtual Livestock Library WWW Virtual Library: Animal health, well-being, and rights Avian Option information from the National Chicken Council BSA Advancement ID
018
Created
1975
Popularity
94
Difficulty
1 - 2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Animal Science Workbook
Archaeology A VERY involved merit badge and is recommended mostly for older Scouts.
8a: Archaeological Digs A list of digs and tours currently in progress or planning. 11: Careers in Archaeology in the U.S. From the Illinois State Museum. ArchNet - WWW Virtual Library of Archaeology WWW Virtual Library of Archaeology and Prehistory BSA Advancement ID
132
Created
1997
Glenn A. Black Laboratory of Archaeology Archaeological Resource Guide for Europe
Popularity
57
The Museum of Underwater Archaeology
Difficulty
5
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Archaeology Workbook
Archery Great merit badge to be done at a Scout Camp.
1: Archery Safety Rules 2a: Parts of an Arrow From South Carolina Hunter Education; also has wonderful illustrations and extensive information on primitive hunting National Archery Association National Field Archery Association Archery Images
019
BSA Advancement ID
1911
Popularity
15
Difficulty
3
Created
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Archery Workbook
Architecture Best if done ALONG WITH Landscape Architecture as Scouts earn two merit badges at the same time and many requirements are shared amongst merit badges. Might also want to consider looking into BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Drafting Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 3 2a: Careers in architecture 3: Building Materials BSA Advancement ID
020
American Institute of Architects
Created
1911
Feng Shui Society
Popularity
104
Difficulty
3
Buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright Falling Water - Ohiopyle,Pa
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Kentucky Knob - Farmington,Pa.
Architecture Workbook
Art The Art Merit Badge is one of the merit badges that would be a great starter merit badge for new Scouts.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 2a, 2b, and 4 Careers in Art History (UC Santa Cruz) ArtCyclopedia A Timeline of Art History BSA Advancement ID
021
Created
1911
WWW Virtual Library: History of Art Arts of China Consortium
Popularity
22
Difficulty
1
Counselors: Cynthia Odekirk, Centerville Jr High Richard Odekirk Art Workbook
Astronomy A more difficult merit badge as there are a lot of fairly involved requirements. Great Scout camp merit badge or Patrol/Troop activity. Consider working on the Astronomy Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Space Exploration Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 9 5:The planets and when they will be visible Amateur Telescope Maker's - Stelfane home page BSA Advancement ID
022
Created
1911
Popularity
41
Difficulty
4
Astronomy and Space - Interactive Web Resources Astronomy and Space : Fact files : Learning : National Maritime Museum The Astronomy Cafe AstroWeb - Astronomy/Astrophysics on the Internet
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
The Constellations and Their Stars
Astronomy Workbook
Current Night Sky - Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics Earth & Sky Infrared Astronomy National Aeronautics and Space Administration NASA Eagle Scout Recognition Information The Nine Planets Solar System Tour Plans for Building a Dobsonian Telescope Tonight's Sky - New things to discover every night Views of the Solar System Windows to the Universe Guide to the Planets Details on Each Planet Find Satellites, Constellations, Planets and more Mr R's Astronomy Merit Badge Web Site
Athletics The Athletics Merit Badge is pretty easy for most Scouts but gains is given a 3 for difficulty due to the need for planning and scheduled events as a part of the requirements.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 6b USA Track & Field
BSA Advancement ID
023
Created
1911
Popularity
106
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Patrick Mele Karl Peterson Richard Odekirk Athletics Workbook
Automotive Maintenance Better merit badge for older Scouts, especially as they get closer to driving age.
2: Check other fluids, Check Oil, Change Oil, Lights, Inspect Belts, Air Filter, Transmission Fluid, 4b: Tire Pressure , Tread Wear 11: True cost of ownership calculator 11b: Detailing, Wiper Blades, Car maintenance, BSA Advancement ID
127
Created
1992
Popularity
55
Difficulty
5
Bob Hewitt's (Misterfixit's) Auto Repair Page Animated Engines WWW Virtual Library: Autos Other Online Videos: Car Inspection Videos, Car Maintenance
Counselors: Jeff Johnson Wes Lewis Richard Odekirk Automotive Maintenance Workbook
Aviation This merit badge can be a lot of fun for any Scout interested in flying but requires some planning and project work.
FPG-9 Foam Plate Glider Online Learning to Fly - Video Lessons - First Lesson Aviation Merit Badge Detailed Notebook Another FPG-9 Resource Instructions BSA Advancement ID
025
Pattern
Created
1911
Another FPG-9 Resource
Popularity
34
Difficulty
3 - 4
FPG-9 as a part of the US Air Force Project SOAR
Counselors: Karl Petersen Richard Odekirk AVIATION Workbook
Backpacking Nice merit badge to get started on at Scout Camp. Best if done in conjunction with the Camping Merit Badge as some requirements can apply to both merit badges.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 11b 8a. Wings' The Home-made Stove Archives 8a. PCTHiker.com: Scott's Pepsi-G Stove — Wow! Information on building your own hi-efficiency stove out of pepsi cans. How to Pack your Backpack BSA Advancement ID
026
Created
1982
Popularity
91
Difficulty
2 - 3
Backpacking Gear Reviews Backpacking Lightweight Backpacker Magazine Chuck's Backpacking Bonanza
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Onestep's Ultralight Backpacking Resource
Backpacking Workbook
Ultralightweight Backpacking — How To Do It Backpacking and Hiking TrailHead Peak to Peak Trail and Wilderness Links
Basketry Some cost involved in this one and can easily be done with the materials at camp or as a Patrol/Troop activity.
Allow 10-20 hours to complete the three baskets Basketry kits for each project are available at your local Scout Shop or online at ScoutStuff.org and other sites. 3a: Square Basket Save the more difficult square basket for last. Buy a larger kit like the BSA Square Basket so you have more room to work. BSA Advancement ID
027
Created
1927
Popularity
31
Difficulty
1
3b: Round Basket The Round basket is easier for many than the square basket. Still consider the larger BSA Round Basket kit. 3c: Campstool Seat Leave a gap between the reeds the thickness of two reeds so that you will have room for the cross-pieces. Consider the BSA Campstool Seat kit.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Free patterns are at: http://www.countryseat.com/. The 301 Rush kit can be used for the campstool requirement but costs about twice as much as the BSA Campstool Seat.
Basketry Workbook
Basketry Information & Supplies Free Basket Patterns Basketry Information Basketry Questions and Basketry Answers! Native Basketry: Survival, Beauty Basketweaving 101
Bird Study Fun Merit badge to do but a lot of study material. This Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T. Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
This is a great badge to do in February, in conjunction with the Great Backyard Bird Count. 2: Bird Identification Parts of a bird diagrams 3: How to Care for Binoculars 3b: How to Adjust Binoculars BSA Advancement ID
029
Created
1914
Popularity
77
Difficulty
3
4: How to Use a Field Guide This is from Young Birders, an excellent overall site for the budding birdwatcher. 6: Learn Bird Songs 6: North American Bird Sounds
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
7a: Surfbirds Find your local birdwatchers and bird watching clubs.
Bird Study Workbook
7b: Christmas Bird Count From the National Audubon Society 8: How to Build a Birdbath, Birdhouse, Garden Bench, or Rockwall for Your Garden Illustrated and easy to follow instructions. Online Bird Study Merit Badge site for Boy Scouts Patuxent Wildlife Research Center Birding on the Web Sample Bird Study MB Flyer Bird Study Merit Badge - earn it on the web
Bugling An easy merit badge for anyone as the bugle is one of the easiest instruments to learn next to the kazoo. Scouts already with musical instrument experience, especially a brass player, will find this badge easy to complete. Consider working on the Bugling Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Music Merit Badge as some requirements may be able to be shared across each merit badge's requirements.
Bugle Calls sheet music Bugle Calls and Marches audio files BSA Advancement ID
032
Created
1911
Popularity
130
Difficulty
4
Bugle Calls audio files Bugling Merit Badge Assistance Bugle Calls by the United States Marine Corps Band - audio files Bugle Calls by the United States Army Band - audio files
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Words for Bugle Calls - audio files The G Bugle Web Page - history of the bugle
Bugling Workbook
History of Bugling Merit Badge
Camping While most requirements are rather easy, this merit badge will take time for the Scout to earn due to the number of camping events required to finish the requirements. This merit badge is a great Patrol or Troop Badge that should be started sooner than later.
The Difference between Internal- and External-frame backpacks How to Choose the Right Campsite Leave No Trace Outdoor Code
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Camping Essentials
BSA Advancement ID
001
Created
1911
Popularity
6
Difficulty
3
Types of Tents Water Treatment Basics Internal Frame vs. External Frame Sleeping Bags
Counselors: Dan Loose Julie Brown Richard Odekirk
Very Basic Camp Stove Safety Basic Outdoor Food Safety
Camping Workbook
USDA Food Safety While Camping Ideas for Outdoor Meals Backpacker Magazine
Canoeing Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Canoeing Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the requirements for canoeing are done in these areas and will make the Canoeing Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp Merit Badge Consider working on the Canoeing Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Rowing Merit Badge, Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge or BEFORE the Whitewater Merit Badge..
BSA Advancement ID
033
Created
1927
Requires successful completion of the BSA Swimmer Test Lifting and Carrying Canoes
Popularity
19
American Canoe Association
Difficulty
3
NOC (Nantahala Outdoor Center), NC and NOC's Boy Scout program page
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Canoeing Workbook
Chemistry The Chemistry Merit Badge is best done by older Scouts in conjunction with a High School Chemistry or Science class.
5: Definition of Analytical Chemistry 5: Definition of Inorganic Chemistry 5: Definition of Organic Chemistry 5: Definition of Physical Chemistry BSA Advancement ID
034
Created
1911
Popularity
60
Difficulty
3 - 4
5: University of Connecticut Chemistry Divisions 6a: U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board 6a: Occupational Safety and Health Administration 6b: What is Pollution and How Does it Affect us?
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
6b: Chemical of the Week: Ozone 6b: The Myth of Global Warming
Chemistry Workbook
6b: Myths and Facts about the Environment: Acid Rain From the National Center for Public Policy Research 6c2: Coal and the Environment: Land and Air 6d: Phosphate Facts 7b: A Day in the Life of a Chemical Engineer 7b: A Day in the Life of a Chemist ChemCenter - The American Chemical Society Basic pH Tutorial WWW Virtual Library: Chemistry WWW Virtual Library: Chemical Engineering WWW Virtual Library: Microscopy
Chess This is a great merit badge activity for either a patrol or troop. This merit badge does require a modest degree of effort from the scout and may be accomplished by participating in a school chess club. Please review the following presentation for addition information about this merit badge. CHESS PRESENTATION
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
21
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Patrick Mele Richard Odekirk Chess Workbook
Citizenship in the Community
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 4b, 5, and 7c Living in an American Community US Community Page Index - more about your city and lots of links, too
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
BSA Advancement ID
002
Created
1952
Popularity
8
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk Citizenship in the Community Workbook
Citizenship in the Nation
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 6 1: Citizenship Rights Duties Jury Duty Obligations (Responsibilities)
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
2a: National Historic Landmarks National Register of Historic Places
BSA Advancement ID
003
Created
1951
Popularity
5
Difficulty
3 - 4
2c: Post Office Finder - Your local post office is a federal facility. 2d: National Monuments 3: Major daily newspaper websites
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
4a: Declaration of Independence Declaring Independence: Drafting the Documents 4b: Preamble to the Constitution
Citizenship in the Nation Workbook
Constitutional Topic: The Preamble online 4c: The Constitution The Constitution Online or The Constitution 4d: Bill of Rights 4e: Amendments to the Constitution 5: Six functions of government from the first six articles 6: Famous speeches Gettysburg Address I have a dream Presidential Speeches The History Place: Great Speeches Collection 7: Branches of Government Checks and Balances From US Constitution Online Checks and Balances 8: Citizenship in the Nation MB Pamphlet, page 41: "You can write a letter online or send a letter by mail." Write a letter online to your Senator or Congressman U.S. House of Representatives U.S. Senate Another site for Contacting the Congress The American Government - "A Grand Experiment" National Center for Constitutional Studies Includes an online Constitution quiz and game Ben's Guide to the U.S. Government US History A comprehensive site created by the Independence Hall Association Justices of the Supreme Court Understanding the Federal Courts Kids in the House World's Smallest Political Quiz Town Hall 50 States and Capitals LSU Libraries Federal Agencies Directory The White House Congress of the United States
Citizenship in the World This Merit Badges is one of the merit badges required to earn the World Conservation Award for Boy Scouts
2: U.S. Citizenship How to become a U.S. citizen 4c1: United Nations Official page 4c1: United Nations: Get Us Out A Contrary View 4c2: International Court of Justice (World Court) 4c2: The Folly of the International Court A Contrary View
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
4c3: World Organization of the Scout Movement
BSA Advancement ID
004
Created
1972
Popularity
4
Difficulty
3
4c5: Amnesty International 4c5: Amnesty International and Moral Idiocy A Contrary View 4c6: The International Committee of the Red Cross Official page 4c7: C.A.R.E. A privately-funded, international organization fighting global poverty
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
5: Republics and Democracies
Citizenship in the World Workbook
5: Limited and Unlimited Governments 5: Forms of Government 7: US Department of State Official page 7: Future State - US Department of State for Youth 7d: World Scouting Jamboree How to Become a Citizen of the United States of America — Written for middle schoolers CIA World Factbook — Information on every country in the world Presidential Speech Archive The Global Environment and the National Interest Background Notes on geographic entities and international organizations The Interactive Currency Table NATO Foreign Consular Offices in the United States The Electronic Embassy Geneva International WWW Virtual Library: Culture WWW Virtual Library: Indigenous Studies WWW Virtual Library: International Affairs Resources
Climbing Scouts will find earning the Climbing Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed the Pioneering Merit Badge, and their 1st Class Rank. Great Scout Camp merit badge.
Climb On Safely - A Guide to Unit Climbing and Rappelling Animated Knots by Grog On Rope 1 Tech Tips Learn Climbing BSA Advancement ID
133
Created
1997
Popularity
27
Difficulty
3 - 4
Climbing Glossary - terminology, definitions & slang Climbing Merit Bagde counselors - Serving the NY area Laurel Caverns NorthStar Adventure, Bethlehem, PA
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Climbing Workbook
Coin Collecting Easy merit badge to earn especially if Scout has a collection already Best if done in conjunction with the Collections Merit Badge as some requirements can apply to both merit badges.
1. Us Mint Process of Making Coins 2. Dictionary of Coin Collecting Terminology 4. Storing your Coin Collection 5b. Legal Tender BSA Advancement ID
035
Created
1938
Popularity
81
Difficulty
2 - 3
5c. The Federal Reserve — Official site 7. 50 State Quarters Program: A Celebration of the States 10a. Tour the US Mint — An official U.S. Department of Treasury webpage
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
10b. The U.S. Mint for Kids 10d. The Coins of Colonial and Early America
Coin Collecting Workbook
Craig Murray's Scouting Coins Craig Murray's Scouting Coins – Year of the Scout Craig Murray's Scouting Coins – More Craig Murray's Scouting Coins – Misc. Craig Murray's Scouting Coins – Badges American Numismatic Association American Numismatic Society Have you ever wondered about a $1 bill? The National Numismatic Collection Coin Collecting Merit Badge Web Site
Collections Great merit badge to do in conjunction with Coin Collecting Merit Badge or Stamp Collecting Merit Badge.
BSA Advancement ID
128
Created
1991
Popularity
89
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk Collections Workbook
Communications The Communications Merit Badge is best when done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Weather Merit Badge as requirement #3 of the Communications Merit Badge is similar to the Weather Merit Badge Requirement #9. Also consider working on the Communications Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Public Speaking Merit Badge as some requirements may be shared between the two merit badges
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 6 Advice for personal and unit Web sites — Official BSA web site
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Effective Presentations
BSA Advancement ID
005
Created
1965
Popularity
7
Difficulty
2
Confidence in Public Speaking - First Speech Cartographic Communication
Counselors: Troy Wies Dan Loose Richard Odekirk Communications Workbook
Composite Materials Scouting-related project ideas . walking sticks
troop kitchen
kayak
. silverware
water bottle
canoe
.. plates
cups
.
.. pots/pans
fishing rod
.
.. surfboard
skim board
snowboard
. model airplane
model boat
sled
. skateboard
storage tank
signs
. furniture
.
.
. Other project ideas BSA Advancement ID
137
Created
2006
Popularity
122
Difficulty
4
MSDS List - Contains thousands of materials safety data sheets.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Wikipedia: Composite Materials - Category:Composite Materials; contains a multitude of useful information on composites.
Composite Materials Workbook
Composite Material Key Concepts - Easy reading on composite materials. Suitable for low-level reading. Society of Manufacturing Engineers - SME's area for composites. ACMA's BSA Page - The American Composites Manufacturers Association's page for the Composite Materials merit badge. Great for merit badge research as it is directed towards Scouts
Computers Almost a must have for any Scout, highly recommended and should be an Eagle Requirement merit badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 6e, 7c, and 7d Many of the requirements can be satisfied using Free (often called "Freeware") and Open Source software programs. These programs are free to download and use under Free/Open Source software licenses. Such licenses remove many of the restrictions on sharing software imposed by proprietary software licenses. BSA Advancement ID
036
Created
1967
Popularity
47
Difficulty
3
1 How to Keep Children Safe Online From McAfee Protection 2 A Timeline of the History of the Computer A History of the IEEE Computer Society
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Computer History Computer History Museum
Computers Workbook
The Virtual Museum of Computing Historic Computer Images CHAC History Pages The History of Computers 4a Computer Hardware 4b File Formats and Wotsit.org 5b A Complete List of Programming Languages 5e How Internet Infrastructure Works 6 OpenOffice.org is an open source suite that includes word processing, spreadsheet, presentation and database programs. It is also capable of opening and saving documents in Microsoft format allowing users to work with and save to Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint files 6 Google Docs contains basic spreadsheet, word processor and presentation software. Imports Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint formatted files. Requires only a web browser and a (free) Google account. 6a See the sample duty roster table in the Camping Worksheet Req. 4b 6b See the sample food list & cost table in the Cooking Worksheet Req. 3c & 5b 6e 10 slide presentation is similar to: Art #1, Communications #3, Photography #4b 6g Irfanview is free (no cost) to download and use (though not Open Source). Paint.net is a free, open source image editing and photo manipulation software designed to be used on Windows PCs. It supports layers, unlimited undo, special effects, and a wide variety of useful and powerful tools. Picasa is free photo organization and editing tool from Google that can help you make web pages, slide shows and share your photos. A similar application for the Macintosh is iPhoto. For those looking for more advanced photo editing software (or those using Linux) there's The G.I.M.P.. It is a good choice for those who can't use or afford Adobe Photoshop. 7b Sketchup is a "3D modeling software tool that’s easy to learn, simple to use, and lets you place your models in Google Earth". QCad A free trial copy of QCad is available for downloading. The trial copy does have certain limitations (such as terminating after 10 minutes of use) but should suffice for this requirement and give a scout the chance to try a CAD program. (The Community edition of QCad is open source (with fewer limitations than the Professional trial), but only useful if you know how to compile source code.) 7d NVU - an open source html editor with WYSIWYG capability for building web pages. Also, Linux users can use Quanta Plus (which is also open source, and similar to NVU.) Notepad++ - A more stable free HTML editor also with WYSIWYG and a spacebar HTML tag entry 8 Glossary of Computer Terms or Online Dictionary of Computing 9b DRM Information on music copyright protection 10 Computer Science Career Guide Computer Merit Badge Resource for Scouts and Merit Badge Councilor The Computer Merit Badge Scouting Website & Software Information Welcome to Triumph of the Nerds! - accidental dynasties in computing history Calculating Machines ACM's Special Interest Group on Computer-Human Interaction WWW Virtual Library: Logic Programming WWW Virtual Library: Artificial Intelligence WWW Virtual Library: Web Design
Cooking A fun merit badge for most Scouts and a definite one you will want for your camping experiences. The Cooking Merit Badge is a great one to start new Scouts on after their first camping trip in preparation for their next camping outing.
4b/6b. Wings' The Home-made Stove Archives 4b/6b. PCTHiker.com: Scott's Pepsi-G Stove — Wow! Information on building your own hi-efficiency stove out of pepsi cans. Scout Camp Cooking Camping Food & Dutch Oven Recipes
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
WAGGGS-L Cyber-Cookbook
BSA Advancement ID
038
Created
1911
Popularity
30
Difficulty
2 - 3
Cooking for Scouts and Scouters Troop 237 Dutch Oven Recipes The Trailside Cookbook Buckskinner Cookbook
Counselors: Troy Wies Staci Carlson Richard Odekirk
RecipeSource! — orginally SOAR: The Searchable Online Archive of Recipes The Recipes Folder
Cooking Workbook
CampRecipes.com Camp Kitchen — recipes, cooking gear, etc. U.S. Scouting Service Project Cooking page Ol' Buffalo Outdoor Cooking Page How to Build a Solar Cooker The International Dutch Oven Society My-Recipe.com AsiaRecipe.com Foodborne illness information from the Partnership for Food Safety Education
Crime Prevention Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge, Safety Merit Badge and Traffic Safety Merit Badge as all of these merit badges share some of the same requirements. There are quite a few trips and visits to make to earn this merit badge so it may take quite a bit of time.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7b 3b: Cops Office: Gangs From the Department of Justice
BSA Advancement ID
131
Created
1996
Popularity
65
Difficulty
3
8: Social Programs that Work Compares, through scientific studies, prevention and rehabilitation programs that work with those that don't. 8f: The Three R's of Youth Protection Crime Prevention Division - Metro Nashville Police The BSA Crime Prevention Program National Crime Prevention Council On-Line Resource Center
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Crime Prevention Workbook
Cycling Lots of bike riding involved in this one
Harris Cyclery Articles USA Cycling United States Cycling Federation International Human Powered Vehicle Association Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Pedestrian and Bicycle Information Center The Youghiogheny River Trail
BSA Advancement ID
039
Created
1911
Popularity
74
Difficulty
3
http://www.routeslip.com/ Bicycle Ride Across Georgia
Counselors: Mike Nafus Julie Brown Richard Odekirk
Cycling Workbook
Dentistry
1: How to Read Dental X-Rays Great examples, and language written for young folks. 2a: Causes of Gum Disease 4a: Dental Instrument Setups An in-depth look at dental instruments. 5a: How Fluoride Prevents Tooth Decay 5a: Fluoride Action Network A contrary view.
040
BSA Advancement ID
1975
Created Popularity
96
Difficulty
2
7: Career Opportunities in Dentistry From Dentistry.com. American Dental Association Public Oral Health Information So, You Want To Become A Dentist?
Dentistry Workbook
The Wisdom Tooth
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Oral & Dental Health Basics CDC's Oral Health Resources Dental terms
Disabilities Awareness
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 5a 1: Language and Usage Guide for Editors How to properly refer to a person with a disability. 7: Rewarding Work Human Services for those with Disabilities Easter Seals BSA Advancement ID
060
Created
1993
Goodwill Industries American Association of People with Disabilities
Popularity
72
Learning Disabilities Association of America
Difficulty
3
Canine Companions for Independence
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Special Olympics Americans with Disabilities Act Document Center
Disabilities Awareness Workbook
National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights MOVE International (Mobility Opportunities Via Education and Mobility Opportunities Via Experience) Very Special Arts Family Empowerment Network - Down syndrome National Sports Center for the Disabled North American Riding for the Handicapped Association Online Mainstream - News & Advocacy in Disability Rights OASIS - Online Asperger's Syndrome Information & Support AASCEND - Autism and Asperger Syndrome Coalition
Dog Care Helps to have a dog but maybe you could borrow someone else's for a couple months to complete this badge. Consider doing the Dog Care Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the Pets Merit Badge. Even consider working on the Veterinary Medicine Merit Badge AFTER earning the Dog Care Merit Badge
Dog Care - by the ASPCA Helpful Dog Care Tips The American Kennel Club
BSA Advancement ID
041
Created
1938
A simple first aid kit for dogs
Popularity
108
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Dog Care Workbook
Drafting Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Architecture Merit Badge..
American Design Drafting Association International AutoDesk - makers of AutoCAD The CADdepot - AutoCAD add-on CADsoft - AutoCAD add-on Professional AutoCAD Users Group of Denver BSA Advancement ID
042
FBE online learning AutoCAD - 2D tutorials
Created
1965
Design Visions
Popularity
123
Difficulty
3
Index Librorum Liberorum
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Drafting Workbook
Electricity Best if done BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Electronics Merit Badge also good if done BEFORE Radio Merit Badge
2: The checklist to use from the pamphlet is in the last pages of the Electricity Worksheet. 2: Underwriter Laboratories Home Safety Inspection eMeritBadges.org BSA Advancement ID
043
Created
1911
Popularity
54
Difficulty
3
WWW Virtual Library: Electrical Engineering
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Electricity Workbook
Electronics Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Electricity Merit Badge also good if done ALONG WITH the Radio Merit Badge as the Electronics Merit Badge and Radio Merit Badge share similar requirements.
3a: The Basic Soldering Guide eMeritBadges.org Electronics Plus Electronics tutorials BSA Advancement ID
044
Created
1963
Popularity
68
Difficulty
3
Electronic References & Scholarly Citations of Internet Sources
Counselors: Stacey Carlson Richard Odekirk
Electronics Workbook
Emergency Preparedness It is STRONGLY recommended that you FIRST earn your First Aid Merit Badge as it is required in order to complete the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge. Best also if the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge is done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Pioneering Merit Badge. Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Crime Prevention Merit Badge, Safety Merit Badge and Traffic Safety Merit Badge as all of these merit badges share some of the same requirements
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 8b and 9a 8.c. Emergency Kits
EAGLE REQUIREMENT BSA Advancement ID
006
Created
1972
Popularity
12
Difficulty
3
FEMA Independent Study List — If you have an older Scout working on this badge, FEMA self-study units can be converted to college credits. The courses from FEMA are free; there is a small charge to convert them to college credits. SARBC - Survival: Signalling for Help! Be Lightning Wise!
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Natural Disaster Program for Families
Emergency Preparedness Workbook
"After a Disaster" Series of Publications American Red Cross - Disaster Safety Surviving out in the Desert Southwest NFPA Emergency Preparedness Kits (National Fire Protection Association) NFPA Natural Disasters Link Stop Disasters! A disaster simulation game from the UN/ISDR
Energy The Energy Merit Badge is one of the required and/or elective merit badges to earn one of the William T. Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
BSA Advancement ID
045
Created
1976
Popularity
102
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Dan Loose Richard Odekirk
Energy Workbook
Engineering Rather intense Merit Badge requiring a lot of in depth field study
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement:1 1: How Things Work 2: Engineering Achievements or Greatest Engineering Achievements 3: Fields (Type) of Engineering 4: [http://www.creatingtechnology.org/sysapp.htm Systems Approach} BSA Advancement ID
046
Created
1967
Popularity
61
Difficulty
4 - 5
6b: Appliance Energy Usage 6f: Science Fair Projects - More 7: Best Engineering Programs Recommended High School Courses for Engineering Colleges:
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Berkley Iowa State
Engineering Workbook
MIT Purdue Stanford University of Illinois 8: Professional Engineer - Overview 9: Engineer's Code of Ethics Fire Protection Engineering at the University of Maryland at College Park Fire Protection Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute The Code of Ethics of Engineers - Tau Beta Pi, the Engineering Honor Society Exhibits Collection -- Amusement Park Physics Satellites - You Be the Engineer WWW Virtual Library: Civil Engineering WWW Virtual Library: Electrical and Electronics Engineering WWW Virtual Library: Mechanical Engineering
Entrepreneurship Great badge for a new troop or patrol when deciding on a fundraising project. Good companion or follow up badge with the American Business Merit Badge as the Entrepreneurship Merit Badge does require you to start a business..
Boy Scouts Entrepreneurship Merit Badge Better Business Bureau Alerts and News Young Entrepreneur
BSA Advancement ID
134
Created
1997
Popularity
119
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Entrepreneurship Workbook
Environmental Science The Environmental Science Merit Badge is one of the required merit badges to earn one of the William T. Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts. The Environmental Science Merit Badge is one of the merit badge required to earn the World Conservation Award for Boy Scouts. Great Scout Camp merit badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement:3e3 EnviroLink
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Fort Collins Science Center
BSA Advancement ID
007
Created
1972
Popularity
3
Difficulty
3 - 4
Human Dimensions of Global Environmental Change Introduction to Terrarium & Vivarium Keeping The Internet Consumer Recycling Guide MAPS - Measurement of Air Pollution from Satellites
Counselors: Mitch Eiting Richard Odekirk
Earth Awareness Educational Resources Earth911
Environmental Science Workbook
Nonpoint Source Pointers (Factsheets) GLOBE - Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment Green Peace Endangered Species Program CRC Endangered Species Science - from the Smithsonian EE-Link: Endangered Species EnviroInfo Find Endangered Species in Your State Clickable map, good for requirement 3e1.
Family Life Rather easy Merit Badge but it does require some time (90 days) to complete requirement 3
Because I Love You ERIC - Clearinghouse on Elementary and Early Childhood Education Families Under Construction
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
BSA Advancement ID
129
Created
1991
Popularity
10
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk Richard Odekirk
Family Life Workbook
Farm Mechanics Being an urban based troop the biggest challenge on this merit badge is finding a resource in order to complete the requirements. Can be easily completed with the proper resource. Consider working on the Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Farm Mechanics Merit Badge.
1, 2: How to Plan a Farm ShopFrom North Dakota State University; includes sections on tools and safety. AgriNet Agriculture Online
BSA Advancement ID
048
Created
1928
Popularity
116
Difficulty
2 - 3
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Farm Mechanics Workbook
Fingerprinting A fun and easy merit badge, great activity to do if offered at Scout Camp or for a Patrol/Troop meeting with a few simple supplies.
1, 2, & 3. FBI Fingerprint Identification, History, etc. or Wikipedia Fingerprint Resources 1. Fingerprint History 1. Criminal versus Civil Fingerprint Identification 2. AFIS versus Biometrics (Fingerprint versus Finger-Scan) BSA Advancement ID
049
Created
1938
Popularity
17
Difficulty
1
3a. What is a Fingerprint? 3b. Is Fingerprint Indentification a "Science"? 3c. Latent Print Examination: Fingerprints, Palm Prints, and Footprints
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
4. FBI How to take Fingerprints and FBI Fingerprinting Video Lesson · 5. Taking Legible Fingerprints
Fingerprinting Workbook
Biometric Watch Includes a brief history, and identification of the three major types. National Center For Missing And Exploited Children Southern California Association of Fingerprint Officers The Thin Blue Line: Fingerprinting A detailed history of fingerprinting. Fingerprinting Merit Badge website
Fire Safety Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Fire Safety Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. First aid and Injury care requirements for fire safety are done in these areas and will make the Fire Safety Merit Badge much easier to complete Not a difficult merit badge to do, but lots of requirements including a visit to a fire station. Consider working on the Firem 'n Chit Requirement for Boy Scouts at the same time..
6c: NFPA Fire Extinguishers' page BSA Advancement ID
050
6e: NFPA: Sprinkler Systems
Created
1995
NFPA Safety in the Home (National Fire Protection Association)
Popularity
46
Difficulty
2
The Fire Station Fire Safety and Protection Tips
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Fire Department News and Safety Tips
Fire Safety Workbook
Operation Safe Home Fire Fighters Creed Sparky the Fire Dog National Association of Fire Equipment Distributors Federal Emergency Management Agency
First Aid A difficult merit badge, but required for Eagle requirements. and benefits Scouts immediately with practical skills and knowledge they can use the rest of their life. Scouts will find earning the First Aid Merit Badge easier if they already completed and know the First Aid requirements from the Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks. While not required to have completed these ranks in order to work on the First Aid Merit Badge, this is definitely a good merit badge to start with as several other merit badges require aspects found in completing this merit badge. Good merit badge to do BEFORE the Canoeing Merit Badge. Great one to take advantage of if offered at Scout Camp.
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 6c
BSA Advancement ID
008
Created
1911
Popularity
1
Difficulty
5
Satisfy your counselor that you have current knowledge of all first aid requirements for Tenderfoot Rank, Second Class Rank, and First Class Rank. Guide to Safe Scouting - Section VI - First Aid Intro to First Aid A free basic training course available online
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Learn CPR - You Can Do It!
First Aid Workbook
Realistic First Aid How to use theatrical makeup to teach First Aid
Fish and Wildlife Management Good Summer Scout Camp merit badge to work on. This Merit Badge is one of the required and/or elective merit badges to earn one of the William T. Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts This Merit Badges is one of the merit badges required to earn the World Conservation Award for Boy Scouts
FINS: The Fish Information Service U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service BSA Advancement ID
051
Created
1972
Popularity
43
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Fish and Wildlife Management Workbook
Fishing The Fishing Merit Badge can be a very easy and fun merit badge to complete but can also be a long and frustrating merit badge as well. Hardest requirement is that in order to successfully complete the Fishing Merit Badge you must catch two fish. If you really are into fishing consider doing the Fly Fishing Merit Badge ALONG WITH or AFTER the Fishing Merit Badge. The Fishing Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts.
Take Me Fishing BSA Advancement ID
052
Created
1952
Popularity
20
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Fishing Workbook
Fly Fishing One of the least earned merit badges but a good merit badge to do AFTER or ALONG WITH the Fishing Merit Badge.
Federation of Fly Fishers web site for Fly Fishing Merit Badge animated knots Trout Unlimited Killroy's Fly Tying BSA Advancement ID
136
Created
2002
Popularity
97
Difficulty
2 - 3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Fly Fishing Workbook
Forestry Rather intense Merit Badge requiring a lot of in depth field study Ideally done BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Nature Merit Badge as Requirement 1 is identical to Requirement 4g of the Nature Merit Badge. The Forestry Merit Badge is one of the required and/or elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 5 Requirement 1 is identical to requirement 4g of the Nature merit badge American Forest & Paper Association: Forest Products Resources
BSA Advancement ID
054
Created
1911
Plant-It 2020
Popularity
42
Forest Puzzles
Difficulty
5
Key to Leaves of Virginia Trees
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Environmental Effects of Whole-Tree Timber Harvesting TAPPI Paper University
Forestry Workbook
WWW Virtual Library: Forestry 3b: Locate Your Watershed Enter your zip code to find your watershed. From the EPA. 4: Forest Management USDA Forest Service site
Game Design This is a great merit badge activity for either a patrol or troop.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
21
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Patrick Mele Richard Odekirk Chess Workbook
Gardening The Gardening Merit Badge is a pretty easy merit badge, ideal for a Patrol/Troop project. Takes a little time as you need to observe and tend to your garden for a few months. Consider doing the Landscape Architecture Merit Badge and/or the Plant Science Merit Badge BEFORE working on the Gardening Merit Badge. The Gardening Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts.
2: The Food Coach: Food Value Database BSA Advancement ID
055
Created
1911
Popularity
117
Difficulty
1 - 2
5: Common Garden Pests A comprehensive guide on garden pests and how to get rid of them. 6a: How to Build a Compost Bin Several designs from the University of Missouri.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
6c: Building a Floating Hydroponic Garden From the University of Florida. 6d: How to Build a Water Garden Illustrated.
Gardening Workbook
American Horticultural Society Aquaculture Information Network Common Garden Pests Home and Garden Television Garden Web Growing Herbs in the Home Garden The Garden Gate The Gardener's Guide to Finding Answers on the Internet Master Gardeners National Gardening Association Old Farmer's Almanac Trust for Public Land U.S. Department of Agriculture U.S. National Arboretum World Aquaculture Society USDA National Organic Program World’s Healthiest Foods
Genealogy Great merit badge to work on and get a good start and introduction to genealogy. You might even discover relatives that are Scouts too.
6: Make My Family Tree A free site with step-by-step directions to make a family tree. Julie's Genealogy - BSA Merit Badge Kindred Trails A comprehensive genealogy site with free downloads, free forms, and free software. BSA Advancement ID
056
Beginner's Guide to Family History Research
Created
1972
The Learning Center - National Genealogical Society
Popularity
85
Difficulty
2 - 3
RootsWeb Genealogical Data Cooperative Ancestry HomeTown
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
IAncestry.com - Genealogy Forms Ancestry.com - Family History Made Easy: Step by Step
Genealogy Workbook
Genealogy: Free Advice for Effective Searches Family Tree Searcher GenSite - ranks genealogy sites by popularity Kindred Konnections Genealogy and Family History Home Page Daughters of the American Revolution Library The USGenWeb Project The WorldGenWeb Project Genealogy: Ultimate Family Tree - several free databases available FamilySearch Internet Genealogy Service Family Tree Maker's Genealogy Site: Genealogy Help Cyndi's List of Genealogy Sites on the Internet - hundreds of thousands of links
Geocaching Great activity for a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
38
Difficulty
1
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Geocaching Workbook
Geology The Geology Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 4a and 5c Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark website Careers in Geology - Help with requirement 4b. Includes information on many careers concerning the geosciences. BSA Advancement ID
058
Iron Refining - Help with requirement 2. Gives an easy-to-understand overview on how iron refining works.
Created
1953
Oil Refining - Help with requirement 2. Good overview on oil refining.
Popularity
28
Difficulty
3 - 4
Minerals.Net - Great for the Mineral Resources Option concerning requirement 5.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
WebMineral.Com - Another good site for the Mineral Resources Option in requirement 5. This one is more concerned on the properties, classification, and characteristics of minerals.
Geology Workbook
http://www.laurelcaverns.com/ Rockhounding Arkansas Earth Science Enterprise Educational Resources A Wonderful World of Minerals The US Geological Society The USGS and Science Education USGS Water Resources Education Resources USGS: Ask-A-Geologist
Golf Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Golf Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. First aid and Injury care requirements for golf are done in these areas and will make the Golf Merit Badge much easier to complete Fun merit badge to do as a Patrol/Troop weekend outing
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 8
BSA Advancement ID
059
Created
1976
Popularity
88
Difficulty
1 - 2
Counselors: Mitch Eiting Pat Mele Richard Odekirk
Golf Workbook
Graphic Arts Great merit badge to earn and get a basic introductory to the Graphic Arts industry.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 4a Wikipedia Printing Category offset lithography, screen printing, electronic/digital, relief, gravure, continuous tone, line, and halftone, binding
BSA Advancement ID
122
Created
1987
Popularity
105
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Graphic Arts Workbook
Hiking Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Hiking Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. First aid and Injury care requirements for hiking are done in these areas and will make the Hiking Merit Badge much easier to complete The hikes in requirements 5 and 6 can be used in fulfilling Second Class Rank (2a) and First Class Rank (3) rank requirements, but only if Hiking merit badge requirements 1, 2, 3, and 4 have been completed to the satisfaction of your counselor. In other words, if you go ahead and knock out the first four requirements early, you'll be able use later hikes to kill two birds with one stone
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
Backpacker Magazine
BSA Advancement ID
061
Created
1921
Popularity
67
Difficulty
2 - 3
Hiking First Aid Tips Rails to Trails Converted railroad routes throughout the country.
Counselors: Patrick Mele Julie Brown Richard Odekirk
Hiking Workbook
Home Repairs Best if done ALONG WITH the Painting Merit Badge. Consider doing the Home Repairs Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Plumbing Merit Badge or even the Woodworking Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
BSA Advancement ID
062
Created
1943
Popularity
95
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Home Repairs Workbook
Horsemanship
A rather easy to do merit badge but the tough part is having a horse or access to a horse in order to accomplish a couple of the requirements. Consider coupling the Horsemanship Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH either the Animal Science Merit Badge or (if you own a horse) the Pets Merit Badge. Even consider working on the Veterinary Medicine Merit Badge AFTER completing the Horsemanship Merit Badge.
4. Western Saddle — including diagram of saddle parts.
BSA Advancement ID
063
Created
1911
Popularity
52
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Horsemanship Workbook
Indian Lore Easily done merit badge, consider coupling the Indian Lore Merit Badge ALONG WITH or AFTER the American Heritage Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 2b 1: History of the Makah 1: History of the Squaxin Island Indians 1: History of the Suquamish Tribe Chief Seattle's tribe BSA Advancement ID
064
Created
1931
Popularity
25
Difficulty
1
3a: Authentic Indian Games 4d: Indian Sign Languages: Hand-Signals to Communicate From the National Parks Service 4h: Indian Chiefs and Leaders by Tribe
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
4i: The Iroquois Confederacy and the US Constitution From Portland State University
Indian Lore Workbook
Insect Study The Insect Study Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts. Great merit badge to work on at Summer Scout Camp if offered.
1: Insect definition, species, parts, etc. 2: Structure of Insects Excellent graphics and explanation. 3: Insect Families or Insect Orders - Another site 4: A & M online scrapbook with photos, articles, scientific names, etc. BSA Advancement ID
065
How to identify insects (with scrapbook pages)
Created
1985
University of Kentucky online scrapbook
Popularity
100
Iowa State University Interactive Bug Guide
Difficulty
4
5a: Helpful Insects - More or Harmful Insects - More
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
6: Butterflies - Butterfly Website or Grasshoppers - Arizona Edu 8: colony webcams - USDA Beehive webcam or More
Insect Study Workbook
Inventing This is an easy merit badge that is a good follow up to the Law and Model Design Merit Badges.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 7c
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
115
Difficulty
2-3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Inventing Workbook
Journalism Nice introductory merit badge to Journalism
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 3b and 3c
BSA Advancement ID
066
Created
1927
Popularity
125
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Dan Loose Pat Mele Richard Odekirk
Journalism Workbook
Kayaking
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
21
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Chess Workbook
Landscape Architecture Best if done ALONG WITH the Architecture Merit Badge as Scouts earn two merit badges at the same time and many requirements are shared amongst merit badges. Might also want to consider looking into BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Gardening Merit Badge Consider working on the Landscape Architecture Merit Badge ALONG WITH or AFTER the Plant Science Merit Badge or even the Surveying Merit Badge. The Landscape Architecture Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
BSA Advancement ID
067
2b. American Society of Landscape Architects' Web site
Created
1967
Popularity
121
Difficulty
1 - 2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Landscape Architecture Workbook
Law The Law Merit Badge is not as difficult as one might think, it gives a great introduction to Scouts that might be interested in Law or just learning a little more about Law; much can be done online.
1: Definition, Overview, History, etc. Definition of "Law" Sources of Law 2a: The Code of Hammurabi Another source Justinian Code Another source Magna Carta What is the Magna Carta? BSA Advancement ID
068
Created
1974
Popularity
71
Difficulty
2 - 3
2b: History of the Jury System 2c: Famous Trials Information on the Scopes "Monkey" Trial Information on the Miranda v. Arizona Trial
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
3: Civil Law & Criminal Law Differences between civil law and criminal law
Law Workbook
5: Consumer Protection laws & organizations State Attorneys General enforce state consumer laws and provide free assistance in investigating consumer complaints, issuing alerts, and insuring fair competition. Consumer Product Safety Act - gives CPSC the power to develop safety standards and pursue recalls for products. Federal Trade Commission Act - created the FTC to prevent unfair competition, deceptive acts, regulate trade, etc. Pure Food and Drug Act - led to the creation of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate foods, drugs, and more. Communications Act of 1934 - created the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to regulate all radio and interstate cable, phone, and satellite communications. National Do Not Call Registry - Privacy - allows US consumers to limit telemarketing calls they receive. Fair Credit Reporting Act (FRCA) - regulates the collection, dissemination, and use of consumer credit information Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) - limits abusive consumer practices, insures fairness, etc. Truth in Lending Act (TILA) - requires clear disclosure of key terms of the lending arrangement and all costs. Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) - prohibits kickbacks and requires lenders to provide a good faith estimate of costs Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) provides consumer protection for Health Information Federal Citizen Information Center - provides information about consumer news items, recalls, and consumer scam alerts. Laws that protect the consumer Better Business Bureau - file a complaint or see if others have complained about a business Consumers Union evaluates products and services and publishes Consumer Reports 7: Job of an attorney 8: Legal Education topics: Bachelor's degree, Law School, Juris Doctorate Degree, and Bar Exam. Federal Judge
Leatherwork The Leatherwork Merit Badge is an ideal Scout Camp merit badge as most Scout camps have the materials required to complete this badge. The Leatherwork Merit Badge is also a good Patrol/Troop activity merit badge if resources are available.
Information about leather from Answers.com
BSA Advancement ID
069
Created
1951
Popularity
14
Difficulty
1 - 2
Counselors: Brett Sutherland Richard Odekirk
Leatherwork Workbook
Lifesaving Having earned the BSA Lifeguard Award helps greatly with the earning of the Lifesaving Merit Badge. In order to complete the Lifesaving Merit Badge it is required that the Scout has completed Second Class Requirements 7a through 7c and First Class Requirements 9a through 9c. Consider working on the Lifesaving Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the First Aid Merit Badge. You may also consider working on the Lifesaving Merit Badge in conjunction with a CPR course outside of Scouting.
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
BSA Advancement ID
009
Created
1911
Popularity
24
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Lifesaving Workbook
Mammal Study The Mammal Study Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts. Consider working on the Mammal Study Merit Badge AFTER completion of the Fish and Wildlife Management Merit Badge
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 5 1: Animal Invertebrate BSA Advancement ID
071
Created
1985
Vertebrate Mammal definition and three characteristics
Popularity
23
2: Animal kingdom classification Examples: Dog - Cat - Fox
Difficulty
3
2c: Nongame mammal examples: Bat - Mole - Rat
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
4b: Game animals Game animals Examples: Deer - Rabbit - Wild Boar 4g: Food Chains
Mammal Study Workbook
5: Managing Mammals
Medicine The Medicine Merit Badge is not for the beginning Scout. There are lots of requirements for this merit badge which take a lot of time, more geared towards older Scouts.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 10 2: Survivor M.D. Explains the Hippocratic Oath, both modern and historical. 9: Privatization and Its Discontents The Evolving Chinese Health Care System The New England Journal of Medicine looks at China's failing health care system.
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BSA Advancement ID
130
Created
1991
Popularity
93
Difficulty
5
9: Health and medical care policy and dental care The official Swedish government information page for the single-payer system.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Medicine Workbook
Metalwork The Metalwork Merit Badge is not highly difficult but does require access to the proper materials and tools in order to complete. Take advantage of any local or Scout Camp offering of this merit badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for the different options found in requirement: 5
BSA Advancement ID
074
Created
1927
Popularity
49
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Metalwork Workbook
Model Design and Building The Model Design and Building Merit Badge is one that a Scout will have great fun with but it does require a bit of time and a number of projects and resources to complete Consider working on the Model Design and Building Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Space Exploration Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 1, 2, 4a and 4c
BSA Advancement ID
075
Created
1963
Popularity
109
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Model Design and Building Workbook
Motorboating Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Motorboating Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the requirements for Motorboating are done in these areas and will make the Motorboating Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp Merit Badge. if offered. Consider working on your Motorboating Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH your Canoeing Merit Badge, especially if you have already earned your Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and First Class Rank.
BSA Advancement ID
076
Created
1961
Popularity
53
Difficulty
3 - 4
The Motorboating Merit Badge is better for older Scouts and does require access and use of a motorboat.
Requires successful completion of BSA Swimmer Test prior working on the Motorboating Merit Badge Scout Boating Code - for requirement 4.b.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Motorboating Workbook
Movie Making Formally know as Cinematography. This merit badge is most difficult due to the time, resources, and possibly costs required to complete.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 3a 1:180 Degree Axis Rule and Coverage Motion picture terminology Cinematography lenses, framing, etc. 2c: Cinematic Techniques BSA Advancement ID
026
Created
1990
Popularity
66
Difficulty
4
3b: Zoom Lens (how it works, diagram, etc. - Animated *How Does a Zoom Lens Work? 4: Film or video production jobs Film Crew Jobs and Responsibilities
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Cinematography Mailing List - includes discussion archives on many techniques
Movie Making Workbook
American Society of Cinematographers The Internet Movie Database Filmmaking
Music The Music Merit Badge is one of the easier merit badges to earn. The toughest part of this merit badge is being a part of a band or choir for 6 months. Consider working on the Music Merit Badge ALONG WITH or BEFORE the Bugling Merit Badge as some requirements may be able to be shared across each merit badge's requirements.
2 Classifying Musical Instruments Help for Composing music theory
BSA Advancement ID
077
Created
1911
Popularity
44
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Music Workbook
Nature Ideally done BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Forestry Merit Badge as Requirement 4g is identical to Requirement 1 of the Forestry Merit Badge. The Nature Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts. Good merit badge to do at a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
078
Created
1952
Popularity
39
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Nature Workbook
Nuclear Science The Nuclear Science Merit Badge is better suited for older Scouts. While requirements are not difficult, requirements are involved and time consuming requiring a lot of research and projects to complete. The Nuclear Science Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
1a: Deterministic and Stochastic Models
BSA Advancement ID
024
Created
2005
Popularity
73
Difficulty
3 - 4
1a: Radiation and Risk From the University of Michigan's Health Physics Society. 1a: Radiation Protection Laws From the Environmental Protection Agency. 1b: The Trefoil (Tri-Foil) 2: Dictionary of Radiological Terms
Counselors: Remington Carlson Richard Odekirk
3: The Atomic Heritage Foundation 4a: Uncovering the Mysteries of Nuclear Fission
Nuclear Science Workbook
5a: Build an Electroscope A simple design from a Mason jar and foil. Illustrated. 5e: Radon Outreach Program From the Washington State Department of Health. 5g: How to Build a Cloud Chamber 6b: Nuclear Power Plants and Utilities Lists both public and private nuclear sites, and includes links to their websites. 6b: Nuclear Power and its Role in Global Electricity and Energy Tables comparing nuclear energy in various countries, contrasting various fuel types, and showing energy consumption. Nuclear Energy Institute: Science Club A full explanation and exploration of nuclear science, written on a middle-school level.
Oceanography The Oceanography Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 8a and 8c Composition of Seawater - Excellent site for requirements 2 and 5. It gives much detailed information about the oceans including the percentage of elements present in water, salinity/salts, density, dissolved gases, temperature, nutrients, and underwater photosynthesis. BSA Advancement ID
079
Created
1964
Plankton and the Benthos: From Top to Bottom - Good resource for requirement 6. Provides detailed information on the Plankton and Benthos marine groups.
Popularity
56
Marine Careers - The site says it all. Perfect for option C in requirement 8.
Difficulty
4
University of West Florida - One of the leading universities in marine science. Offers undergraduate degrees in Marine Biology, Maritime Studies, and Oceanography; graduate degrees in Biology including specializations in Marine Biology and Coastal Zones.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Oceanography Workbook
Texas A & M - One of the largest and most well-known universities that offers degrees and conducts research in the fields of marine science. Offers undergraduate degrees in Ocean Engineering and Biology and minors in Oceanography; graduate degrees in Water Management and Hydrological Science, Fisheries Science, Ocean Engineering, Oceanography, and Biology. It also has a special branch in Galveston, TX that is specifically devoted to the marine sciences.
Orienteering Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Orienteering Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. First aid and Injury care requirements for orienteering are done in these areas and will make the Orienteering Merit Badge much easier to complete The Orienteering Merit Badge might be a merit badge to consider doing ALONG WITH the Hiking Merit Badge and/or Back Packing Merit Badge. Fun to include a Patrol/Troop geo-caching activity with.
Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark website BSA Advancement ID
080
1 Common First Aid Treatments - Mayo Clinic
Created
1974
3a How a Compass Works
Popularity
35
Difficulty
3 - 4
4c Online Declination Calculator 6a International Control Descriptions An online interactive quiz for learning or reviewing the IOF symbols
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
6ab 2004 Int'l Specification for Control Descriptions - 29 pages
Orienteering Workbook
6ab One Page Control Description Cheat Sheet 6c Better definitions than in the merit badge handbook Geocaching.com The Official Global GPS Cache Hunt Site Geocaching to Promote Scouting Orienteering Games for the Computer Schoolyard Compass Game Scout Skills Orienteering Badge US Orienteering Federation
Painting The Painting Merit Badge is an easy merit badge to earn, especially if you make this a Patrol/Troop activity. Consider doing the Painting Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Home Repairs Merit Badge as some requirements can be shared between the two merit badges.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 3
BSA Advancement ID
081
Created
1911
Popularity
86
Difficulty
1
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Painting Workbook
Personal Fitness The Personal Fitness Merit Badge is one that will take some time to complete.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7 1a. BSA Medical Exam Form (Class 1 and 2) official BSA link 1a. BSA Medical Exam Form (Class 3) official BSA link 1a4 Seven Warning Signs of Cancer Another site 1a5 Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease What are the Youth Risk Factors that Affect Cardiovascular Fitness in Adulthood?
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
2a. Mind, Body, Spirit
BSA Advancement ID
010
Created
1952
Popularity
9
Difficulty
3
2c. What does it mean to be mentally healthy? 2e. Concept of Health 4a. The Seven Major Components of Physical Fitness An official BSA link 6. Notes and charts
Counselors: Karl Peterson Richard Odekirk
9. Exercise Careers Amateur-Sports.com
Personal Fitness Workbook
American Dietetic Association American Hearty Association Centers for Disease Control Fitness for Kids Intr. Food Information Council Foundation KidsHealth National Athletic Trainer's Association
Personal Management The Personal Management Merit Badge will take a little time and planning to complete.
2a. How to Set Up a Personal Budget 3c. Buyers Remorse 4a. Savings vs. Investment 4b. Return on Investment Risk Simple & Compound Interest 5. Stocks: Most Actives Yahoo Finance MSN MoneyCentral
EAGLE REQUIREMENT
8a. Time Management SMART Goals
BSA Advancement ID
011
Created
1972
Popularity
11
Difficulty
3 - 4
Investing Opportunities for Scouts - example investment programs for youth Bureau of Labor Statistics The Motley Fool
Counselors: Dan Loose Brett Sutherland Richard Odekirk
Consumer Protection FTC Nat. Assn of Investors Guide to Financial Aid
Personal Management Workbook
students.gov studentaid.ed.gov youngbiz.com The Mint - Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Site with help on saving, investing, terminology, etc.
Pets The Pets Merit Badge is a very easy merit badge to earn but does require 4 months of pet care in order to complete, Consider doing the Pets Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER or ALONG WITH the Dog Care Merit Badge (if you have a dog) and/or the Horsemanship Merit Badge (if you have a horse)
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 1
BSA Advancement ID
082
Created
1958
Popularity
82
Difficulty
1
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Pets Workbook
Photography The Photography Merit Badge is a fun a rather easy merit badge to earn. Many Scout Camps offer this merit badge and can be a great way to earn a merit badge and capture a few memories for posterity at the same time.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 4a and 4b Kodak's explanation of how lighting affects photos Also contains a wealth of information written for the non-professional How Shutter Speed, Aperture, and Film Speed Affect Your Picture BSA Advancement ID
083
Basic Photography: Rule of Thirds
Created
1911
Leading Lines Includes some great photographs for examples
Popularity
36
Difficulty
2
Framing your Photos Depth
Counselors: Troy Wies Dan Loose Patrick Mele Julie Brown Richard Odekirk
Angle of View An in-depth discussion; slightly technical Stop-Action Photography How Digital Cameras Work Film vs. Digital
Photography Workbook
Careers in Photography Photography Presentation
Pioneering Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Pioneering Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. First aid and Injury care requirements for pioneering are done in these areas and will make the Pioneering Merit Badge much easier to complete. In order to complete the Pioneering Merit Badge it is required that the Scout completes Tenderfoot Class Requirements 4a through 4b and First Class Requirements 7a through 7c.
BSA Advancement ID
084
Created
1911
Popularity
33
Difficulty
3 - 4
The Pioneering Merit Badge is a great merit badge to work on BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge. The Pioneering Merit Badge is also a good merit badge to work on BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Climbing Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 10 How to tie a bowline
Counselors: Troy Wies Richard Odekirk
Information on types of rope Step-by-step how-to instructions for lower rank knots and lashings requirements:
Pioneering Workbook
All lower rank knots (2MB PDF) - Illustrated knots and lashing diagrams on this site. When to use knots lashings (152K PDF)
Plant Science The Plant Science Merit Badge is a difficult merit badge to earn and requires a lot of involvement for each requirement. The Plant Science Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts. Consider working on the Plant Science Merit Badge BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Gardening Merit Badge or even the Landscape Architecture Merit Badge
BSA Advancement ID
085
Created
1974
Popularity
114
Difficulty
5
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Plant Science Workbook
Plumbing Consider doing the Plumbing Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Home Repairs Merit Badge as some requirements can be shared between the two merit badges.
2. Diagrams of House Hot & Cold and Drain systems http://www.inspectionassociates.com/residential/plumbing/Plumbing_intro.gif http://www.hometips.com/images/content/plumbing_cat.jpg http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=102384&rendTypeId=36
BSA Advancement ID
086
Created
1911
Popularity
83
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Plumbing Workbook
Pottery The Pottery Merit Badge can be a fun Scout Camp activity if offered or even a good Patrol/Troop outing.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7 Pottery -- An easy approach to the basics of pottery, including several links that may help you find additional information. How to make Pottery.com -- an online guide to making pottery. Ceramics.Org -- The American Ceramic Society's home page. BSA Advancement ID
087
Created
1927
Popularity
58
Difficulty
2 - 3
Potters Council -- The Potters Council of the American Ceramic Society's home page
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Pottery Workbook
Programming
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
21
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk Programming Workbook
Public Health The Public Health Merit Badge requires a few visits to complete. Good Patrol/Troop activity merit badge. The Public Health Merit Badge is one of the required and/or elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts..
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 5 and 7 1: What is Public Health? Vaccinations for Children, Why and When BSA Advancement ID
089
Created
1911
National Vaccine Information Center Promoting Informed Consent about Vaccination
Popularity
120
What is a Vector?
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Public Health Workbook
Public Speaking Consider working on the Public Speaking Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Communications Merit Badge as some requirements may be shared between the two merit badges.
Using Parliamentary Procedure A lesson plan from Mississippi State University's extension program. Parliamentary Procedure Online Includes a tutorial and quizzes.
BSA Advancement ID
090
Created
1932
Popularity
75
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Troy Wies Dan Loose Jeff Tonseth Richard Odekirk
Public Speaking Workbook
Pulp and Paper The Pulp and Paper Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7 TAPPI Paper University International Paper's Learning Center
BSA Advancement ID
091
Created
1972
Popularity
69
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Pulp and Paper Workbook >
Radio Best if done AFTER the Electricity Merit Badge also good if done ALONG WITH the Electronics Merit Badge as the Radio Merit Badge and Electronics Merit Badge share similar requirements.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7 1: Radio (in General) 1a: Amateur radio Amateur Radio Service Broadcasting 1b: Broadcasting (commercial) Broadcasting (public) BSA Advancement ID
093
Created
1923
Popularity
76
Difficulty
3
1c: Call Signs Amateur Radio call signs FCC (Federal Communications Commission) Amateur Radio call sign map (radioing.com) 1d: Phonetic Alphabet International Phonetic Alphabet (US Navy) International Phonetic Alphabet (NASA) 2a: Radio Waves in the Atmosphere WWV WWVH
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
2b: DXing DX (distance) communications FCC (Federal Communications Commission) ITU Overview ITU Website
Radio Workbook
3: Radio Frequency Spectrum United States Frequency Allocation Chart Radio Communications Sector 4: Modulation to carry information-animated graphics Radio Propagation Transceiver Transmitter Amplifier Antenna 5ab: Block Diagram Circuit diagrams Electronic symbols 5b: Microphone Feed Line (also see 4 and 5a above) 5c: Open Circuit Open vs. Closed Circuit Short Circuit 5d: Electrical components 6: Electrical Safety – Including Lightning, Antennas, etc. Direct Current Grounding 7: Broadcasting Amateur Radio Station 9a:Short-wave Listening International Broadcasting (Short-wave Listening) JOTA (Jamboree On The Air, third weekend of each October) Radio Website with old requirements ARRL (Amateur Radio Relay League) How to get an amateur radio license (above and beyond the merit badge)
Railroading The Railroading Merit Badge is a fun and rather easy merit badge, great Patrol/Troop activity merit badge to work on.
2: Amtrak 3c: Support Activities for Transportation From the US Census Dept 4: Operation Lifesaver 5: Safety for Railfans BSA Advancement ID
094
Created
1952
Popularity
63
Difficulty
2 - 3
6: Know Your Railroad Signs Part of Operation Lifesaver 7d: APR Cabooses Scroll to the bottom of the page. 8b: Railfan.net 8b4: Amtrak Schools on Trains: Cascades
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
8b4: Amtrak Schools on Trains: Hiawatha
Railroading Workbook
SMRHS -- Sacramento Model Railroad Historical Society, highly supportive of the merit badge.
Reading The Reading Merit Badge is a good merit badge for younger Boy Scouts to get signed up for at the beginning of the school year and work on in conjunctions with reading assignments in school. Good individual service project attached with this merit badge to complete the requirements.
Library of Congress -- The USA's Library of Congress's home page. LoC Online Catalog -- The USA's Library of Congress's Online catalog. DMOZ directory of Boy Scouts of America sites -- A good resource for requirement 3b. Lists over 2,600 web sites beneficial to Scouting. BSA Advancement ID
095
Created
1925
Popularity
84
Difficulty
2
ALSC's Newberry Page -- List of Newberry Medal and Honors books. Teen Reads Home Page -- A website entirely devoted to books for teenagers. Great source if you're looking for a certain book, author, or just browsing.
Counselors: Mike Nafus Jeff Tonseth Richard Odekirk
ALSC's Home Page -- The Association for Library Service to Children's home page. ALA's Home Page -- The American Library Association's home page.
Reading Workbook
Reptile and Amphibian Study The toughest part of the Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge is that you must keep, and care for, a reptile or amphibian as a pet for a month. Consider doing the Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Pets Merit Badge. The Reptile and Amphibian Study Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
NOTE: Scouts must not use venomous reptiles in fulfilling requirement
BSA Advancement ID
096
Created
1993
Popularity
59
Difficulty
3
8a. Species listed by federal or state law as endangered, protected, or threatened must not be used as live specimens in completing requirement 8a unless official permission has been given. In most cases all specimens should be returned to the wild at the location of capture after the requirement has been met. Check with your merit badge counselor for those instances where the return of these specimens would not be appropriate.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, some plants and animals are, or may be, protected by federal law. The same ones and/or others may be protected by state law. Be sure that you do not collect protected species.
Reptile and Amphibian Study Workbook
Your state may require that you purchase and carry a license to collect certain species. Check with the wildlife and fish and game officials in your state regarding species regulations before you begin to collect. Kentucky Snake Identification Species information, maps, GIS
Rifle Shooting The Rifle Shooting Merit Badge is a great Scout Camp Merit Badge to complete. Consider working on the Rifle Shooting Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Shotgun Shooting Merit Badge.
National Rifle Association Alco Target Company National Target Company U.S. Target Company BSA Advancement ID
123
Created
1988
Popularity
13
Difficulty
2 - 3
Troop 509's step-by-step guide to completing the Rifle Badge Video Lessons: Loading & Cleaning and All About Target Shooting
Counselors: Michael Williams Dan Loose Richard Odekirk
Rifle Shooting Workbook
Robotics
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
50
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Robotics Workbook
Rowing Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Rowing Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the requirements for canoeing are done in these areas and will make the Canoeing Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp Merit Badge Consider working on the Rowing Merit Badge BEFORE, AFTER, or ALONG WITH the Canoeing Merit Badge, Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge or BEFORE the Whitewater Merit Badge..
BSA Advancement ID
098
Created
1933
Requires successful completion of the BSA Swimmer Test
Popularity
48
Difficulty
2 - 3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Rowing Workbook
Safety The Safety Merit Badge is a fairly easy merit badge to complete. Best if done BEFORE, AFTER or ALONG WITH the Crime Prevention, Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge, and/or the Traffic Safety Merit Badge as all of these merit badges share some of the same requirements. You may also consider working on the Safety Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Family Life Merit Badge, Fire Safety Merit Badge and/or First Aid Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 2a 6: U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Advisory System BSA Advancement ID
012
Created
1927
Popularity
103
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Safety Workbook
Salesmanship The Salesmanship Merit Badge should be fairly simple for since almost every Scout sells wreaths or Popcorn at some point. Consider working on the Salesmanship Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the Public Speaking Merit Badge.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 3
BSA Advancement ID
099
Created
1927
Popularity
79
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Troy Wies Jeff Tonseth Richard Odekirk
Salesmanship Workbook
Scholarship The Scholarship Merit Badge is a good merit badge to start in the fall and challenge Scouts on through their school year.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 4b
BSA Advancement ID
100
Created
1911
Popularity
80
Difficulty
2 - 3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Scholarship Workbook
Scouting Heritage Good merit badge for new Scouts to learn the history of the Scouting Program. Great activity for a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
87
Difficulty
1
Counselors: Troy Wies Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Scouting Heritage Workbook
Scuba Good merit badge for new Scouts to learn the history of the Scouting Program. Great activity for a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
113
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Scuba Workbook
Sculpture The Sculpture Merit Badge is a good merit badge to take advantage of if offered at a Scout Camp
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 2c 1: Safety Procedures for Sculpture University of Virginia's studio rules. 2b: It's So Easy to Cast Plaster! How to make a plaster cast of almost anything. 3: Careers for Sculptors From Sculpture.org. BSA Advancement ID
101
Created
1911
Popularity
51
Difficulty
2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Sculpture Workbook
Search and Rescue Good merit badge for new Scouts to learn the history of the Scouting Program. Great activity for a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
128
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Welding Workbook
Shotgun Shooting The Shotgun Shooting Merit Badge is a great Scout Camp Merit Badge to complete. Consider doing the Shotgun Shooting Merit Badge ALONG WITH the Rifle Shooting Merit Badge.
http://www.nra.org/
BSA Advancement ID
124
Created
1988
Popularity
26
Difficulty
4 - 5
Counselors: Dan Loose Michael Williams Richard Odekirk
Shotgun Shooting Workbook
Skating Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Skating Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Injury care requirements for skating are done in these areas and will make the Skating Merit Badge much easier to complete. Choose from one of the following; ice skating, roller skating, or in-line skating, to complete this merit badge.
Inline Skating Glossary Inline Skating Safety How to Do a Mohawk Turn BSA Advancement ID
103
Created
1973
Popularity
118
Difficulty
3
How to Take Care of Your Inline Skates This site also has a wealth of other information for Inline Skating Parts of an Inline Skate Includes photos and Diagrams Tutorials, Techniques, and FAQs for Skating
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Video: A Proper Mohawk
Skating Workbook
Video: Linked Swizzles
Small-Boat Sailing Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the requirements for this badge are done in these areas and will make the Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered. Consider working on the Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the Canoeing Merit Badge, Rowing Merit Badge or BEFORE the Whitewater Merit Badge.
BSA Advancement ID
105
Created
1964
Requires successful completion of the BSA Swimmer Test Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 6c
Popularity
37
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Small-Boat Sailing Workbook
Snow Sports Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Snow Sports Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for this badge are done in these areas and will make the Snow Sports Merit Badge much easier to complete
The Smart Style Program From the National Ski Area Association Your Responsibility Code From the National Safety Council Your Responsibility Code From the National Ski Area Association
BSA Advancement ID
135
Created
1999
Popularity
64
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Snow Sports Workbook
Soil and Water Conservation The Soil and Water Conservation Merit Badge is one of the required and/or elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts The Soil and Water Conservation Merit Badge is one of the merit badges required to earn the World Conservation Award for Boy Scouts. Consider working on the Soil and Water Conservation Merit Badge BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Gardening Merit Badge or even ALONG WITH the Plant Science Merit Badge. Good Scout Camp merit badge if offered.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 7f BSA Advancement ID
106
Created
1952
Popularity
45
Difficulty
3
1a: What's the Difference Between Soil and Dirt? 2: The Soil Erosion Site 3: National Conservation Practice Standards
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
4: What is a Watershed? From the Watershed Atlas. 5a: The Hydrologic/Water Cycle From the University of North Dakota's Earthscape Project.
Soil and Water Conservation Workbook
5b: Capillary Action 5b: Soil Percolation 6: Water Pollution FAQs 6c: Water Quality Monitor: Biochemical Oxygen Demand 6c/d: Wastewater Treatment Principles and Regulations 7d: How to Use a Soil Survey From the USDA's Natural Resources Conversation Service. PlantTalk Colorado™ – from Colorado State University; provides reliable, timely information on more than 400 horticultural topics.
Space Exploration Consider working on the Space Exploration Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the Astronomy Merit Badge and/or the Model Design and Building Merit Badge
2 Gallery of historic figures in space exploration National Association of Rocketry NASA Homepage Space Exploration Home Page Free technical publications from Estes Industries
BSA Advancement ID
107
Created
1965
Popularity
29
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Space Exploration Workbook
Sports Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Sports Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed the First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many first aid requirements for this badge are done in these areas and will make the Sports Merit Badge much easier to complete. It should be noted that, the activities use to fulfill the requirements for the Sports Merit Badge may NOT be used to help fulfill requirements for other merit badges.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 5 BSA Advancement ID
013
Created
1965
Popularity
62
Difficulty
3
Restricted sports include those on the Unauthorized and Restricted Activities list: Boxing, Karate, "Related Martial Arts" (excepting judo, aikido, and tai chi), Parachuting, Flying, Motorized speed events (motorbikes, drag racing, speedboats), Paintball, Hunting, or Parasailing 3a: The Importance of Warm-up and Cool Down
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Sports Workbook
Stamp Collecting Easy merit badge to earn especially if Scout has a collection already Best if done in conjunction with the Collections Merit Badge as some requirements can apply to both merit badges
1b: The History of Stamp Collecting in America 2: Topical Stamp Collecting From the Collectors' Club of Chicago 3: Philatelic Terms 7a: Design a Postage Stamp Intended as a lesson plan for Black History Month, but the information is useful for all designs. Includes criteria for USPS selection.
BSA Advancement ID
108
Created
1932
Popularity
126
Scouts on Stamps Society International
Difficulty
2 - 3
Stamp Collecting From the United States Postal Service
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Stamp Collecting Merit Badge website
Stamp Collecting Workbook
Sustainability The Sustainability Merit Badge is a rather fun and easy merit badge for Scouts of all ages
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
2014
Popularity
00
Difficulty
1 - 2
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Sustainability Workbook
Surveying Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Surveying Merit Badge easier having already completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for surveying are done in these areas and will make the Surveying Merit Badge much easier to complete. Consider working on the Surveying Merit Badge BEFORE or ALONG WITH the Landscape Architecture Merit Badge
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 2
BSA Advancement ID
109
Created
1911
Popularity
124
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Surveying Workbook
Swimming In order to complete the Swimming Merit Badge it is required that the Scout has completed Second Class Requirements 7a through 7c and First Class Requirements 9a through 9c. Scouts must also successfully complete their BSA Swimmer Test. Having earned the BSA Lifeguard Award helps greatly with the earning of the Swimming Merit Badge but is not required. Consider working on the BSA Lifeguard Award and/or the Lifesaving Merit Badge AFTER completing the Swimming Merit Badge. Consider working on the Canoeing Merit Badge, Lifesaving Merit Badge, Motorboating Merit Badge, Rowing Merit Badge, and/or Small-Boat Sailing Merit Badge AFTER earning your Swimming Merit Badge.
EAGLE REQUIREMENT BSA Advancement ID
014
Created
1911
American Red Cross YMCA
Popularity
2
International Swimming Hall of Fame
Difficulty
3
United States Diving
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
USA Swimming
Swimming Workbook
Textile The Textile Merit Badge is a rather fun and easy merit badge for Scouts of all ages
3b: How to Make a Cardboard Box Loom 3c: Can be done while taking the field trip required in 3a. 3d: Use Old Wool Sweaters and Blankets to Make Felt 3e: Making Natural Dyes from Plants Works great with white cotton tshirts. Rubber band clumps of the shirt in various places to make it tie-dye. BSA Advancement ID
110
Created
1973
Popularity
92
Difficulty
1 - 2
4: Resil's Textile Dictionary 5: Ecological Sustainability 6: Careers in the Textile Industry A nice listing from Buffalo State University.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
The American History Textile Museum — offers this merit badge in one afternoon. See how they do it.
Textile Workbook
Theatre
BSA Advancement ID
111
Created
1967
Popularity
112
Difficulty
2 - 3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Theater Workbook
Traffic Safety Best if done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Crime Prevention Merit Badge, Emergency Preparedness Merit Badge, and/or Safety Merit Badge as all of these merit badges share some of the same requirements.
1a: Top Ten Driving Mistakes Teenagers Make 1b: Driving and Alcohol 1c: Highway Design A CalTrans education course. BSA Advancement ID
112
1c: Museum of Dumb Highway Design What happens when design factors are not considered.
Created
1975
1d: Distracted and Fatigued Driving from NHTSA
Popularity
70
Difficulty
3
2b: Nine Car Safety Features to Look For When Buying a Car 3b: How to Check Tire Pressure In video format.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
3c: Tires & Wheels: Checking Tire Tread
Traffic Safety Workbook
3d: How to Tell if Your Wiper Blades Need to be Replaced 4a: Stopping Distances 4c: Manual of Traffic Signs All about traffic signs, including sections on shapes and colors. 5b: Young Driver's Guide to Freeway Driving 5b: TeenDriving.com
Truck Transportation
BSA Advancement ID
113
Created
1973
Popularity
110
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Tim Hight Richard Odekirk
Truck Transportation Workbook
Veterinary Medicine Consider working on the Veterinary Medicine Merit Badge AFTER the Animal Science Merit Badge or even AFTER the Pets Merit Merit Badge, Dog Care Merit Badge, and/or the Horsemanship Merit Badge
BSA Advancement ID
114
Created
1995
Popularity
111
Difficulty
3 - 4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Veterinary Medicine Workbook
Water Sports Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Water Sports Merit Badge a lot easier to earn if they already have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the requirements for this badge are done in these areas and will make the Water Sports Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered. Access to and use of watercraft equipment is necessary to complete this merit badge. Consider working on the Water Sports Merit Badge AFTER or ALONG WITH the Motorboating Merit Badge and/or Swimming Merit Badge.
BSA Advancement ID
115
Requires successful completion of the BSA Swimmer Test
Created
1969
Popularity
98
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Water Sports Workbook
Weather The Weather Merit Badge is best when done AFTER or ALONG WITH the Communications Merit Badge as requirement #3 of the Communications Merit Badge is similar to the Weather Merit Badge Requirement #9. The Weather Merit Badge is one of the elective merit badges to earn one of the William T Hornaday Awards for Boy Scouts
Requires prior counselor approval for requirements: 9a and 9b 1:: American Meteorological Society - Define Meteorology BSA Advancement ID
116
2: Discover the Outdoors Especially good for those camping outdoors
Created
1927
2: NBC5 i.com Weather Safety How weather works (excellent interactive tutorials)
Popularity
40
Difficulty
2 - 3
2: Weather Research Center
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
3: USA Today Weather- Understanding systems and symbols (excellent interactive animations).
Weather Workbook
3: Weather Fronts 4: BrainPop.com - A fun movie about how wind is created (good). 4: National Geographic - Why does the wind blow? A simple explanation. 4: University of Illinois - Precipitation (rain, hail, sleet, snow...) 4: NASA: A Lightning Primer - Text, photos, and charts about lightning. 4: USA Today: Weather Basics - High Pressure and Low Pressure systems 5: University of Illinois Cloud types and classifications 6: Tom Snyder: Science Court - Water Cycle 6: Droplet and the Water Cycle Play the game! 6: Washington Education Association - The Water Cycle 6: The KidZone - The Water Cycle 6: USGS - The Hydrologic Cycle 7: USGS Water Science for Schools - Explains the effects on water, forests, fish, and much of our environment. 7: The Green Lane (Environment Canada) - The facts, water, forests, air quality and your health. What's being done? 7: Acid Rain - Scroll down to photos of worn statues 8a: The Franklin Institute - Make your own weather station using things from around the house. 8a: Science Learning Network - Plans for some weather instruments using simple materials 8a: AccuWeather - You will need to input your city and state 9a: National Weather Service: Lightning Outdoors 9b: Myths and Facts about the Environment: Acid Rain From the National Center for Public Policy Research 9b: Environmental Stewardship News Weather.com
Welding Good merit badge for new Scouts to learn the history of the Scouting Program. Great activity for a Scout Camp or even on a Patrol/Troop camp outing.
BSA Advancement ID
000
Created
0000
Popularity
101
Difficulty
4
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Welding Workbook
Whitewater Although not required, it is STRONGLY recommended that BEFORE working on the Whitewater Merit Badge that Scouts have completed their Swimming Merit Badge, First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for whitewater are done in these areas and will make the Whitewater Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered
Requires earning either the Canoeing Merit Badge the Kayaking BSA Award prior to accomplishing most requirements River Signals BSA Advancement ID
125
Created
1987
Merit Badge-specific Programs
Popularity
99
Kern River Outfitters Kern River. Only 3 hours from LA, 5 hours from San Diego. California.
Difficulty
5
American Whitewater Expeditions American River. California. Eagle Rafting Two day program on the Kern River. California.
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
W.E.T. River Trips Six day program combines Whitewater badge with 50-miler Award. Also offers the opportunity for Climbing, Kayak, and Bird Study. California.
Whitewater Workbook
Echo Canyon River Adventures One day program on the Royal Gorge or Arkansas Rivers. Colorado. Wilderness Aware Online training, and customizable trips from an Eagle Scout owned outfitter. Colorado. Kentucky Whitewater ASM-led one day program, including Kayak BSA award. Kentucky. New England Outdoor Center One and two night canoeing and whitewater programs. Maine. NOC's Boy Scout program page One, two, and three day programs for whitewater, canoeing, and flyfishing. North Carolina. Laurel Highlands River Tours One or two day merit badge programs on the Youghiogheny River. Pennsylvania. Wilderness Voyageurs Registered MBCs offer whitewater and climbing badges. Pennsylvania. Ace Funyaks One day program on the Ocoee River. Tennessee. Appalachian Whitewaters Two day merit badge program. West Virginia. Wild and Scenic River Tours Customizable Scout outings in the Mt. Baker area. Washington. Raft Siberia 50-miler whitewater trips. California, Idaho, and Utah
Wilderness Survival Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Wilderness Survival Merit Badge easier having already completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for wilderness survival are done in these areas and will make the Wilderness Survival Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered or a fun Patrol/Troop merit badge activity
6: Eight non-match methods for fire starting 7b: How to Use a Signal Mirror BSA Advancement ID
117
Created
1974
Popularity
16
Difficulty
2 - 3
US Geological Survey Free Topographical Maps - Download the pdf or buy 22”x27” maps First Aid Videos Make a First Aid Kit, Basics, Basics2, CPR Basics, Venomous Snake Bite
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Survival Videos Survival Kit, Build a Fire, Build a Shelter, Signaling, Desert, Leave No Trace
Wilderness Survival Workbook
Camping Videos Packing, Water Purification, Layering, Wet Weather, Sleeping Bags, Pads , Tents Hiking Videos Planning, Footwear, Avoid Blisters, Gear, Cold Weather, Warm Weather , Layering Backpacking Videos Gear, Internal vs. External Frame, Campsite, Clothing, Food, Hydration, Socks Fire Starting Videos Site, Kindling, Wood, Flint & Steel, BlastMatch, Steel Wool, Fire Piston Magnifying Glass, Log Cabin, Tee Pee, Dangers, Safety Knot Videos Basics, Basics2, Animated Knots
Wood Carving Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Wood Carving Merit Badge easier having already completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for wood carving are done in these areas and will make the Wood Carving Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered. The Wood Carving Merit Badge requires Scouts to earn their Totin' Chip Boy Scout Award as a part of this merit badge requirements.
2b: A Guide to Safe Woodcarving BSA Advancement ID
118
Created
1923
Popularity
18
Difficulty
2 - 3
Bill Sharp's Nuts and Bolts of Wood Carving — A short course in carving basics Northwest Wood Carvers — Has a great beginner's section Wood Carving Tips and Techniques
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Wood Carving Workbook
Woodwork Although not required, Scouts will find earning the Woodwork Merit Badge easier having already completed their First Aid Merit Badge and their 1st Class Rank. Many of the first aid requirements for woodwork are done in these areas and will make the Woodwork Merit Badge much easier to complete. Great Summer Scout Camp merit badge if offered. The Woodwork Merit Badge requires Scouts to earn their Totin' Chip Boy Scout Award as a part of this merit badge requirements.
Requires prior counselor approval for requirement: 5d BSA Advancement ID
119
Woodworking With Scouts
Created
1923
The Oak Factory
Popularity
90
Difficulty
3
Counselors: Richard Odekirk
Woodwork Workbook
Woodworker's Journal The Woodworking Catalog rec.woodworking FAQ's WoodWeb Steve Shook's Directory of Forest Products, Wood Science, and Marketing Woodworking Tips and Techniques American Scrollsawing
