Woodwork

Wood is an amazingly versatile, practical, yet beautiful material. A skilled craftsman can use wood to fashion just about anything. As a woodworker or carpenter, you will find no end of useful, valuable, and fun items you can make yourself, from wood.

Requirements

1. Do the following:

1. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while participating in woodwork activities, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, and respond to these hazards. Explain what precautions you should take to safely use your tools.
2. Show that you know first aid for injuries that could occur while woodworking, including splinters, scratches, cuts, severe bleeding, and shock. Tell what precautions must be taken to help prevent loss of eyesight or hearing, and explain why and when it is necessary to use a dust mask.
3. Earn the Totin’ Chip recognition.
2. Do the following:
1. Describe how timber is grown, harvested, and milled. Tell how lumber is cured, seasoned, graded, and sized.
2. Collect and label blocks of six kinds of wood useful in woodworking. Describe the chief qualities of each. Give the best uses of each.
3. Do the following:
1. Show the proper care, use, and storage of all working tools and equipment that you own or use at home or school.
2. Sharpen correctly the cutting edges of two different tools.
4. Using a saw, plane, hammer, brace, and bit, make something useful of wood. Cut parts from lumber that you have squared and measured from working drawings.
5. Create your own carpentry project. List the materials you will need to complete your project, and then build your project. Keep track of the time you spend and the cost of the materials.
6. Do any TWO of the following:
1. Make working drawings of a project needing (1) beveled or rounded edges OR curved or incised cuttings, OR (2) miter, dowel, or mortise and tenon joints. Build this project.
2. Make a cabinet, box, or something else with a door or lid fastened with inset hinges.
3. Help make and repair wooden toys for underprivileged children OR help carry out a carpentry service project approved by your counselor for a charitable organization.
7. Talk with a cabinetmaker or carpenter. Find out about the training, apprenticeship, career opportunities, work conditions, work hours, pay rates, and union organization that woodworking experts have in your area.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Drafting, First Aid, Forestry, Home Repairs, Model Design and Building, Painting, Pulp and Paper, and Wood Carving merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Adkins, Jan. Toolchest. Walker, 1984.
• Bramlett, Tim. A Kid’s Guide to Crafts: Wood Projects. Stackpole Books, 1997.
• Creative Publishing. The Complete Guide to Easy Woodworking Projects. Creative Publishing, 2003.
• Fine Woodworking. The Basics of Craftsmanship: Key Advice on Every Aspect of Woodworking. Taunton, 2003.
• Fraser, Aime. Getting Started in Woodworking: Skill-Building Projects That Teach the Basics. Taunton, 2003.
• McGuire, Kevin. Woodworking for Kids: 40 Fabulous, Fun & Useful Things for Kids to Make. Sterling, 1994.
• Nelson, John R. American Folk Toys: Easy-to-Build Toys for Kids of All Ages. Taunton, 1998.

Videos

• Basic Carpentry. D.I.Y. Video, 1985.
• Easy Woodworking Projects. D.I.Y. Video, 1985.
• Small Shop Projects: Boxes. Taunton Press, 1990.
• Woodworking Made Easy With Hank Metz, Vol. 1: Biscuit Joinery Techniques. Easyway Ventures, 1996.

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Wood Carving

As with any art, wood carving involves learning the basics of design, along with material selection and tools and techniques, as well as wood-carving safety. The requirements of the Wood Carving merit badge introduce Scouts to an enjoyable hobby and that can become a lifetime activity.

Requirements

1. Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while wood carving, including minor cuts and scratches and splinters.
2. Do the following:
1. Earn the Totin’ Chip recognition.
2. Discuss with your merit badge counselor your understanding of the Safety Checklist for Carving.
3. Do the following:
1. Explain to your counselor, orally or in writing, the care and use of five types of tools that you may use in a carving project.
2. Tell your counselor how to care for and use several types of sharpening devices, then demonstrate that you know how to use these devices.
4. Using a piece of scrap wood or a project on which you are working, show your merit badge counselor that you know how to do the following:
1. Paring cut
2. Basic cut and push cut
3. Score line
4. Stop cut
5. Tell why different woods are used for different projects. Explain why you chose the type of wood you did for your projects in requirements 6 and 7.
6. Plan your own or select a project from the Wood Carving merit badge pamphlet and complete a simple carving in the round.
7. Complete a simple low-relief OR a chip carving project.

Resources

Books

• Beiderman, Charles, and William Johnston. The Beginner’s Handbook of Woodcarving. Dover Publications, 1988.
• Berry, P. Start a Craft Wood Carving. Book Sales, 1996.
• Bridgewater, Alan. Carving Totem Poles and Masks: Native American Folk Art. Sterling, 1991.
• ——–. Woodcarving Basics. Sterling, 1996.
• Green, Larry. First Projects for Wood Carvers: A Pictorial Introduction to Wood Carving. Schiffler, 1996.
• Guldan, Mary D. The Complete Beginner’s Wood Carving Workbook: Ten Ready-to-Use Patterns. Fox Chapel, 1996.
• Hillyer, John. Woodcarving: 20 Great Projects for Beginners and Weekend Carvers. Lark Books, 2002.
• Tangerman, Elmer. Carving Animals in Wood. Dover, 1995.
• ——–. Whittling and Woodcarving. Dover Publications, 1962.
• Toney, Tina. Easy Weekend Carving Projects: A Complete, Illustrated Manual. Fox Chapel, 1996.

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Wilderness Survival

In their outdoor activities, Scouts learn to bring the clothing and gear they need, to make good plans, and do their best to manage any risks. But now and then, something unexpected happens. When things go wrong, the skills of wilderness survival can help make everything right again.

Requirements

1. Show that you know first aid for and how to prevent injuries or illnesses that could occur in backcountry settings, including hypothermia, heat reactions, frostbite, dehydration, blisters, insect stings, tick bites, and snakebites.
2. From memory, list the seven priorities for survival in a backcountry or wilderness location. Explain the importance of each one with your counselor.
3. Discuss ways to avoid panic and maintain a high level of morale when lost, and explain why this is important.
4. Describe the steps you would take to survive in the following conditions:
1. Cold and snowy
2. Wet (forest)
3. Hot and dry (desert)
4. Windy (mountains or plains)
5. Water (ocean, lake, or river)
5. Put together a personal survival kit and explain how each item in it could be useful.
6. Using three different methods (other than matches), build and light three fires.
7. Do the following:
1. Show five different ways to attract attention when lost.
2. Demonstrate how to use a signal mirror.
3. Describe from memory five ground-to-air signals and tell what they mean.
8. Improvise a natural shelter. For the purpose of this demonstration, use techniques that have little negative impact on the environment. Spend a night in your shelter.
9. Explain how to protect yourself from insects, reptiles, and bears.
10. Demonstrate three ways to treat water found in the outdoors to prepare it for drinking.
11. Show that you know the proper clothing to wear in your area on an overnight in extremely hot weather and in extremely cold weather.
12. Explain why it usually is not wise to eat edible wild plants or wildlife in a wilderness survival situation.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Boy Scout Handbook and Fieldbook; Backpacking, Camping, Canoeing, Emergency Preparedness, First Aid, Lifesaving, Orienteering, Safety, and Weather merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Angier, Bradford. How to Stay Alive in the Woods. Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers, 2001.
• Forgey, William W. Basic Essentials: Wilderness First Aid, 3rd ed. Falcon Guides, 2006.
• Gill, Paul G. Wilderness First Aid. Ragged Mountain Press, 2001.
• Harvey, Mark. National Outdoor Leadership School’s Wilderness Guide: The Classic Handbook. Fireside, 1999.
• Isaac, Jeffrey. The Outward Bound Wilderness First Aid Handbook. The Lyons Press, 1998.
• Keller, William. Keller’s Outdoor Survival Guide: How to Prevail When Lost, Stranded, or Injured in the Wilderness. Willow Creek Press, 2001.
• Randall, Glenn. Outward Bound Map and Compass Handbook. The Lyons Press, 1998.
• Stillwell, Alexander. The Encyclopedia of Survival Techniques. The Lyons Press, 2000.
• Storm, Rory. The Extreme Survival Guide. Houghton Mifflin, 1999.
• Tawrell, Paul. Camping and Wilderness Survival. Falcon Distribution, 1996.

Videos

• More Wilderness 911. DVD. Wellspring Media, 1998.
• Survival Basics, Vol. 1, and Survival Basics, Vol. 2. DVD. Tapeworm, 2000.
• The Unexplained—Wilderness Survival. DVD. A&E Home Video, 2001.

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Whitewater

Canoeing or kayaking through whitewater rapids can be a thrilling experience. Safe whitewater fun requires each participant to understand the the equipment and techniques and to have a firm respect for the power of nature’s waterways.

Requirements

1. Do the following:

1. Review with your counselor the first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while working on the Whitewater merit badge, including hypothermia, heat reactions, dehydration, insect stings, blisters, bruises, cuts, and shoulder dislocation.
2. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on a person. Explain how such conditions are recognized.
3. Demonstrate proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.
2. Do the following:
1. Review and compare BSA Safety Afloat and the American Whitewater safety guidelines and demonstrate your understanding of these principles by answering questions from your counselor.
2. Identify and explain the use and importance of safety equipment on moving water. Include in your explanation a discussion about throw ropes, whistles, and how to choose and properly fit PFDs (personal flotation devices) and helmets.
3. Before doing requirements 4 through 13, earn the Canoeing merit badge if you will be using a canoe to earn this merit badge. If you will be using a kayak, earn the Kayaking BSA Award.
4. Do ONE of the following:
1. If you are completing these requirements as a tandem canoeist, demonstrate basic canoe-handling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds while paddling tandem with a buddy. Then demonstrate the following strokes: cross forward, cross draw, bow pry, Duffek, high brace, and low brace.
2. If you are completing these requirements as a solo canoeist, demonstrate basic solo canoe-handling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds. Then demonstrate the following strokes: cross forward, cross draw, stern pry, Duffek, high brace, and low brace.
3. If you are using a kayak to complete these requirements, demonstrate basic kayak-handling skills by completing the Scout gate test within 160 seconds. Demonstrate the following strokes: Duffek, high brace, low brace, and sculling draw. Then do the following:
1. Move the kayak forward in a reasonably straight line for 10 yards.
2. Move the kayak sideways to the right and to the left.
3. Pivot 360 degrees to the right and left.
4. Stop the kayak.
5. Do the following:
1. Explain the importance of scouting before committing to running a rapid, and discuss good judgment when evaluating a stretch of river or a particular rapid.
2. Explain the terms downstream V, riffle, strainer, eddy, eddy line, pillow, ledge, bend, shallows, falls, low-head dam, current, rock, drop, horizon line, wave, standing wave, hydraulic, and sleeper.
3. Explain how to scout and read a river while ashore and while afloat, and discuss the importance of hazard recognition.
4. Demonstrate your ability to read the river where you are practicing and demonstrating your whitewater skills.
6. Explain the International Scale of River Difficulty and apply the scale to the stretch of river where you are practicing and demonstrating your whitewater skills. Identify the specific characteristics of the river that are factors in your classification according to the International Scale.
7. Explain the importance of communication during every whitewater outing. Explain and then demonstrate using the following river signals: “Run right,” “Run left,” “Run down the center,” “Stop,” “Are you OK?” and “Help!”
8. Do the following:
1. Explain the differences between flatwater and whitewater canoes. Identify the different materials used in modern whitewater canoe construction and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
2. Describe the various types of kayaks and how they differ in design, materials, and purpose.
3. Identify the advantages and special uses for kayaks and decked canoes in moving water.
4. Discuss the construction, safety, and functional features of paddles used in whitewater activities.
9. Discuss the personal and group equipment necessary for a safe whitewater outing and how and why it is used. Explain how to pack and protect these items.
10. Wearing the proper personal flotation device (PFD) and being appropriately dressed for the weather and water conditions, perform the following skills in moving water in a properly equipped whitewater craft of your choice (tandem canoe, solo canoe, or solo kayak). If a tandem canoe is used, the skills must be demonstrated from both the bow and stern positions.
1. Launch and land.
2. Paddle forward in a straight line.
3. Backpaddle.
4. Sideslip, both sides.
5. Ferry upstream and downstream.
6. Eddy turn.
7. Peel out.
11. Explain and demonstrate:
1. Self-rescue and procedures when capsized in moving water, including a wet exit if necessary
2. Safe rescue of others in various whitewater situations using a throw rope
3. Portaging—when and how to do it
4. The whitewater buddy system using at least three persons and three craft
12. Discuss the use of inflatable rafts on moving water. In your discussion, explain the special safety precautions that should be taken when using an inflatable raft and the risks of “tubing” on moving water.
13. Participate in a whitewater trip using either a canoe or kayak on a Class I or Class II river. Help to prepare a written plan, specifying the route, schedule, equipment, safety precautions, and emergency procedures. Determine local rules and obtain permission from landowners and land managers in advance. Explain what steps you have taken to comply with BSA Safety Afloat and the American Whitewater safety guidelines. Execute the plan with others.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Boy Scout Handbook and Fieldbook; Kayaking BSA Award application; Canoeing, Rowing, and Small-Boat Sailing merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Bennett, Jeff. The Complete Whitewater Rafter. International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press, 1996.
• ——–. The Essential Whitewater Kayaker. International Marine/ Ragged Mountain Press, 1999.
• Blaine, Mark. Whitewater: The Thrill and Skill of Running the World’s Great Rivers. Black Dog and Leventhal Publishers, 2001.
• Bechdel, Les. River Rescue: A Manual for Whitewater Safety. Appalachian Mountain Club Books, 1997.
• Foster, Tom, and Kel Kelly. Catch Every Eddy, Surf Every Wave: A Contemporary Guide to Whitewater Playboating. Outdoor Centre of New England, 1995.
• Grant, Gordon. Trailside Guide: Canoeing. W. W. Norton & Company, 2003.
• Harrison, Dave. Canoeing: The Complete Guide to Equipment and Technique. Stackpole Books, 1996.
• Jackson, Eric. Whitewater Paddling: Strokes & Concepts. Stackpole Books, 1999.
• Krauzer, Steven M. Trailside Guide: Kayaking. W. W. Norton & Company, 2003.
• Mason, Bill. Path of the Paddle: An Illustrated Guide to the Art of Canoeing (revised and updated by Paul Mason). Firefly Books, 1999.
• Mason, Paul. Thrill of the Paddle: The Art of Whitewater Canoeing. Firefly Books, 1999.
• Nealy, William. Kayak: A Manual of Technique. Menasha Ridge Press, 1986.
• Ray, Slim. The Canoe Handbook: Techniques for Mastering the Sport of Canoeing. Stackpole Books, 1992.

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Weather

Meteorology is the study of Earth’s atmosphere and its weather and the ways in which temperature, wind, and moisture act together in the environment. In addition to learning how everyday weather is predicted, Scouts can learn about extreme weather such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes, and how to stay safe.

Requirements

1. Define meteorology. Explain what weather is and what climate is. Discuss how the weather affects farmers, sailors, aviators, and the outdoor construction industry. Tell why weather forecasts are important to each of these groups.
2. Name five dangerous weather-related conditions. Give the safety rules for each when outdoors and explain the difference between a severe weather watch and a warning. Discuss the safety rules with your family.
3. Explain the difference between high and low pressure systems in the atmosphere. Tell which is related to good and to poor weather. Draw cross sections of a cold front and a warm front, showing the location and movements of the cold and warm air, the frontal slope, the location and types of clouds associated with each type of front, and the location of precipitation.
4. Tell what causes wind, why it rains, and how lightning and hail are formed.
5. Identify and describe clouds in the low, middle, and upper levels of the atmosphere. Relate these to specific types of weather.
6. Draw a diagram of the water cycle and label its major processes. Explain the water cycle to your counselor.
7. Define acid rain. Identify which human activities pollute the atmosphere and the effects such pollution can have on people.
8. Do ONE of the following:
1. Make one of the following instruments: wind vane, anemometer, rain gauge, hygrometer. Keep a daily weather log for one week using information from this instrument as well as from other sources such as local radio and television stations, NOAA Weather Radio, and Internet sources (with your parent’s permission). Record the following information at the same time every day: wind direction and speed, temperature, precipitation, and types of clouds. Be sure to make a note of any morning dew or frost. In the log, also list the weather forecasts from radio or television at the same time each day and show how the weather really turned out.
2. Visit a National Weather Service office or talk with a local radio or television weathercaster, private meteorologist, local agricultural extension service officer, or university meteorology instructor. Find out what type of weather is most dangerous or damaging to your community. Determine how severe weather and flood warnings reach the homes in your community.
9. Do ONE of the following:
1. Give a talk of at least five minutes to a group (such as your unit or a Cub Scout pack) explaining the outdoor safety rules in the event of lightning, flash floods, and tornadoes. Before your talk, share your outline with your counselor for approval.
2. Read several articles about acid rain and give a prepared talk of at least five minutes to a group (such as your unit or a Cub Scout pack) about the articles. Before your talk, share your outline with your counselor for approval.
10. Find out about a weather-related career opportunity that interests you. Discuss with and explain to your counselor what training and education are required for such a position, and the responsibilities required of such a position.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Fieldbook; Chemistry, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Science, and Oceanography merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Burt, Christopher C. Extreme Weather: A Guide and Record Book. W. W. Norton, 2004.
• Ceban, Bonnie J. Tornadoes: Disaster and Survival. Enslow Publishers, 2005.
• Chaston, Peter R. Weather Maps: How to Read and Interpret All the Basic Weather Charts. Chaston Scientific Inc., 2002.
• Cosgrove, Brian. Weather. DK Publishing, 2004.
• Day, John. A., and Vincent J. Schaefer. Clouds and Weather: The Concise Field Guide to the Atmosphere. Houghton Mifflin, 1998.
• Gardner, Robert, et al. Science Projects About Weather. Enslow Publishers, 1994.
• Elsom, Derek M. Weather Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to the Elements, Vol. 5. Henry Holt & Company, 1997.
• Hodgson, Michael. Basic Essentials: Weather Forecasting. Globe Pequot, 1999.
• Kahl, Jonathan D. W. National Audubon Society First Field Guide: Weather. Scholastic, 1998.
• Moran, Joseph M., et al. Meteorology: The Atmosphere and Science of Weather. Prentice Hall, 1996.
• Petheram, Louise. Acid Rain. Bridgestone Books, 2002.

Magazines

• Weatherwise: The Magazine About Weather 1319 18th St., NW Washington, DC 20036-1802 Web site: http://www.weather-wise.org

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Water Sports

Water sports are a fun and exhilarating way to enjoy being outdoors while developing strength, coordination, and fitness. By developing experience with water sports and practicing good judgment, Scouts will gain skills that will serve them well for a lifetime and have extreme fun while they do.

Requirements

1. Show that you know first aid for injuries or illnesses that could occur while participating in water sports, including hypothermia, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, sunburn, minor cuts and bruises, and blisters.
2. Do the following:
1. Identify the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person. Explain how such conditions are recognized.
2. Demonstrate proper technique for performing CPR using a training device approved by your counselor.
3. Before doing the following requirements, successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.
4. Do the following:
1. Discuss the BSA Safety Afloat policy. Tell how it applies to water sports.
2. Name the different types of personal flotation devices (PFDs), and explain when each type should be used. Show how to choose and properly fit a PFD.
3. Know the Water Sports Safety Code. Promise that you will live up to it and follow it in all water work for this badge. Know the safety precautions that must be used by the boat operator in pulling water – skiers and wakeboarders.
5. Show the following skier signals to the safety observer in the boat: skier safe, faster, slower, turns, back to dock, cut motor, skier in water.
6. Showing reasonable control while using two skis, one ski, or a wakeboard, do EACH of the following:
1. Show how to enter the water from a boat and make a deepwater start without help.
2. Show you can cross both wakes four times and return to the center of the wake each time, without falling.
3. Show you can fall properly to avoid an obstacle. Also show that you can drop handle and coast to a stop without losing your balance.
7. While on shore, show that you know how to properly adjust the bindings of your ski(s) or wakeboard to fit yourself. Then, in deep water, show you can adjust bindings to fit. Recover and put on your ski(s) or wakeboard that has come off during a fall.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Boy Scout Handbook; Fieldbook; Athletics, First Aid, Lifesaving, Motorboating, Personal Fitness, Small-Boat Sailing, Snow Sports, and Swimming merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Blomquist, Christopher. Wakeboarding in the X Games. PowerKids Press, 2003.
• Cooperman, Stephanie. Wakeboarding: Techniques and Tricks. The Rosen Publishing Group Inc., 2003.
• Duvall, Camille. Camille Duvall’s Instructional Guide to Water Skiing. Simon & Schuster, 1992.
• Favret, Ben, and David Benzel. Complete Guide to Water Skiing. Human Kinetics Publishers, 1997.
• Firestone, Mary, and Scott N. Atkinson. Extreme Waterskiing Moves. Capstone Press, 2003.
• Hayhurst, Chris. Wakeboarding! Throw a Tantrum. Saddleback Educational Publishing Inc., 2000.
• Kalman, Bobbie. Extreme Wakeboarding. Crabtree Publishing Company, 2006.
• Maurer, Tracy Nelson. Wakeboarding. Rourke Publishing, 2002.
• Thompson, Luke. Essential Waterskiing for Teens. Children’s Press, 2000.
• Weber, Jason. Wakeboarding: On the Edge. Sports on the Edge LLC, 2000.

Video

• Higher Education. Bump Films, http://www.bumpfilms.com

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Veterinary Medicine

The field of veterinary medicine in the 21st century is one of the most exciting medical professions in which to work. The skills of a veterinarian are practiced with cutting-edge technology and treatment options, and the profession offers a wide range of career choices.

Requirements

1. Discuss with your counselor the roles a veterinarian plays in the following:

1. Companion or small animal medicine, and equine medicine
2. Food animal or large animal medicine
3. Exotic animal medicine
4. Marine animal medicine (mammal and fish)
5. Poultry medicine
6. Wildlife medicine and aquaculture medicine
2. Discuss with your counselor the roles a veterinarian plays in the following:
1. Public health medicine and zoonotic disease surveillance and control
2. The military
3. Food safety and inspection
4. Laboratory animal medicine and research
5. Teaching and government
3. Describe the training required to become a veterinarian. Where is the veterinary medical college nearest you? Describe the prerequisites for applying to veterinary school.
4. Tell your counselor what a registered veterinary technician (R.V.T.) or animal health technician (A.H.T.) is. Describe the training required to become an R.V.T. or A.H.T. Where is the school or facility for R.V.T. or A.H.T. training nearest you? Describe the role an R.V.T. or A.H.T. would play in assisting a veterinarian working in three of the practice types listed in requirement 1.
5. Discuss with your merit badge counselor the role a veterinarian plays in the human-animal bond.
6. Do ONE of the following:
1. Visit a veterinary clinic, hospital, or veterinary referral teaching hospital that does work in one of the practices listed in requirement 1. Spend as much time as you can observing the veterinarians and their staff. Write a report on what you observed and learned at the facility. Share your report with your counselor.
2. Spend as much time as possible with a veterinarian who works in one of the fields listed in requirement 2. Learn what special training beyond veterinary medical school may have been required for that position. Learn about any special or unusual activities required of this position. Write a report on what you have learned about this field of veterinary medicine. Include in your report how this field serves the needs of the general public. Share your report with your counselor.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Animal Science, Bird Study, Dog Care, Fish and Wildlife Management, Horsemanship, Mammal Study, Nature, Pets, Public Health, and Reptile and Amphibian Study merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, et al. Veterinary Medical School Admission Requirements in the United States and Canada. Purdue University Press, 2003.
• Croke, Vicki, Philip C. Kosch, et al. Animal ER: Extraordinary Stories of Hope and Healing From One of the World’s Leading Veterinary Hospitals. Plume, 2000.
• James Herriot. All Creatures Great and Small. St. Martin’s Press, 1998.
• ——–. All Things Bright and Beautiful. St. Martin’s Press, 1998.
• Lee, Mary Price, and Richard S. Lee. Opportunities in Animal and Pet Care Careers. McGraw-Hill/ Contemporary Books, 2001.
• Maynard, Thane, and Jane Goodall. Working With Wildlife: A Guide to Careers in the Animal World. Orchard Books, 2000.
• Maze, Stephanie, and Catherine O’Neill Grace. I Want to Be . . . A Veterinarian. Harcourt, 1997.
• Pavia, Audrey. Careers With Animals. Barrons Educational Series, 2001.

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Truck Transportation

Trucking is a large and important industry. No matter where you live, a day is unlikely to go by when you will not see a truck. We use these vehicles to deliver almost every material item we buy. Without trucks, our economy would not work efficiently.

Requirements

1. List the major truck lines serving your town.
2. Do the following:
1. Describe the role of truck transportation within commerce (the movement of goods, funds, and information).
2. Describe how trucks fit into a company’s supply chain. This could be a manufacturer, importer, wholesaler, or retailer.
3. On paper, map out how goods that are manufactured overseas are transported to a retailer in this country.
3. Describe the difference between the gasoline engine and the diesel engine that power trucks. List the advantages of each.
4. Visit a truck terminal and complete items 4a through 4e. After your visit, share what you have learned with your counselor.
1. Find out what kind of maintenance program the company follows to help keep its fleet, drivers, and the roadway safe.
2. Find out how dispatchers maintain communication with drivers on the road.
3. Talk with a professional truck driver about safety. Learn about the truck driver’s rules of the road for safe driving. List five safe – driving rules every professional truck driver must follow.
4. Review the driver’s log and find out what kind of information the log contains.
5. Learn about important federal regulations that help ensure public safety.
5. Do the following:
1. Outline the general organization of a trucking company. Describe what each department does.
2. List five positions with trucking companies and describe each one.
6. Name five government agencies that work closely with the trucking industry. Describe their role.
7. List five different kinds of trucks. Tell the service each provides.
8. Assume that you are going to ship by truck 500 pounds of goods (freight class 65) from your town to another town 500 miles away. Your shipment must arrive within three days. Explain in writing:
1. How to prepare the shipment
2. How to compare at least three carriers for time in transit and rates
3. How to choose which carrier to use
4. How to insure the shipment for damages
9. Define the following terms: bill of lading, ETA, logbook, intermodal, containers, tariff, shippers, carrier, consignee, drayage, cartage.
10. Learn about opportunities in the field of truck transportation. Choose one career in which you are interested and discuss with your counselor the major responsibilities of that position and the qualifications, education, and training such a position requires.

Resources

Scouting Literature

American Business, Auto Mechanics, Aviation, Engineering, Railroading, and Traffic Safety merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Byrnes, Mike, & Associates. Bumper to Bumper: The Complete Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations. Mike Byrnes & Associates Inc., 2003.
• Ouellet, Lawrence J. Pedal to the Metal: The Work Life of Truckers. Temple University Press, 1994.
• Professional Truck Driver Institute. Trucking: Tractor-Trailer Driver Handbook/Workbook. Delmar Thomas Learning, 1999.
• Scharnberg, Ken. Opportunities in Trucking Careers. McGraw-Hill, 1999.
• Woltman, Jeffrey J., and Sheena P. Woltman. Trucking Simplified: Tools and Strategies for Running a Successful Trucking Operation. Boogaloo Press, 2000.

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Traffic Safety

Staying safe in traffic wherever you live is getting more difficult all the time, as more and more people take to the road. Earning the Traffic Safety merit badge and will give Scouts some crucial tools to stay safer, when driving a car on a highway, riding a bike across town, or jogging across a busy street.

Requirements

1. Do the following:

1. Describe the top 10 mistakes new drivers frequently make. Name the two items you are required by law to carry with you whenever you operate a motor vehicle.
2. Describe how alcohol and other drugs affect the human body and why a person should never drink and drive, or drive while under the influence of any mind-altering substances including prescription drugs, cold medications, and illicit drugs. For the state where you live, find out what is the legal blood alcohol concentration and the consequences for driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence. Find out what the open-container law is in your state.
3. Describe at least four factors to be considered in the design of a road or highway. Explain how roadside hazards and road conditions contribute to the occurrence and seriousness of traffic crashes.
4. Explain why a driver who is fatigued or distracted should not operate a motor vehicle. List five common distractions, explain how driver distractions contribute to traffic accidents, and tell how drivers can minimize distractions. Describe how volunteer drivers can plan to be alert when transporting Scouting participants.
2. Do the following:
1. Demonstrate how to properly wear a lap or shoulder belt. Explain why it is important for drivers and passengers to wear safety belts at all times.
2. List five safety features found in motor vehicles besides occupant restraint systems. Describe each safety feature, how each works, and how each contributes to safety.
3. Do the following:
1. Using your family car or another vehicle, demonstrate that all lights and lighting systems in the vehicle are working. Describe the function and explain why each type of light is important to safe driving.
2. Using your family car or another vehicle, demonstrate how to check tire pressure and identify the correct tire pressure for the vehicle. Explain why proper tire pressure is important to safe driving.
3. Demonstrate a method to check for adequate tire tread. Explain why proper tire tread is important to safe driving.
4. Demonstrate with a smear-and-clear test if the windshield wiper blades will clear the windshield completely or need to be replaced. Describe instances in good and bad weather when windshield washers are important to safe driving.
4. Do the following:
1. In a location away from traffic hazards, measure with a tape measure – not in a car—and mark off with stakes the distance that a car will travel during the time needed for decision and reaction, and the braking distances necessary to stop a car traveling 30, 50, and 70 miles per hour on dry, level pavement. Discuss how environmental factors such as bad weather and road conditions will affect the distance.
2. Demonstrate the difference in nighttime visibility between a properly lit bicycle and rider (or a pedestrian) wearing reflective material and a bicycle and rider with no lights (or a pedestrian) dressed in dark clothing, without reflective material.
3. Explain how color and shape are used to help road users recognize and understand the information presented on traffic and roadway signs. Explain the purpose of different types of signs, signals, and pavement markings.
4. Describe at least three examples of traffic laws that apply to drivers of motor vehicles and that bicyclists must also obey.
5. Do ONE of the following:
1. Interview a traffic law enforcement officer in your community to identify what three traffic safety problems the officer is most concerned about. Discuss with your merit badge counselor possible ways to solve one of those problems.
2. Using the Internet (with your parent’s permission), visit five Web sites that cover safe driving for teenagers. As a group, discuss what you learn with your counselor and at least three other teenagers.
3. Initiate and organize an activity or event to demonstrate the importance of traffic safety.
4. Accompanied by an adult and a buddy, pick a safe place to observe traffic at a controlled intersection (traffic signal or stop sign) on three separate days and at three different times of the day, for 30 minutes on each visit. At this intersection, survey
1. such violations as running a red light or stop sign; or (2) seat belt usage. Count the number of violations or number of drivers not wearing a seat belt. Record in general terms if the driver was young or old, male or female. Keep track of the total number of vehicles observed so that you can determine the percentage of compliance vs. violations. Discuss your findings with your merit badge counselor.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Auto Mechanics, Citizenship in the Community, Cycling, Emergency Preparedness, Engineering, First Aid, Railroading, Safety, and Truck Transportation merit badge pamphlets

Books

• Aaseng, Nathan. Teens and Drunk Driving. Lucent Books, 2000.
• Alliance for Safe Driving. License to Drive. Delmar, 1999.
• Berardelli, Phil. Safe Young Drivers: A Guide for Parents and Teens. Nautilus Communications, 1998.
• Boelts, Maribeth. A Kid’s Guide to Staying Safe on Bikes. Powerkids Press, 1998.
• Booley, Theresa Anne. Alcohol and Your Liver: The Incredibly Disgusting Story. Rosen, 2000.
• Burke, Edmund R. Serious Cycling. Human Kinetics, 2002.
• Carr, Woodii. The ABCs of Driving. Integrated International Systems, 1998.
• Ditchfield, Christin. Cycling. Children’s Press, 2000.
• Gerdes, Louise I. Drunk Driving. Greenhaven Press, 2001.
• Hewitt, Ben. New Cyclist’s Handbook. Rodale Inc., 2005.
• James, Leon, and Diane Nahl. Road Rage and Aggressive Driving: Steering Clear of Highway Warfare. Prometheus Books, 2000.
• Johnson, Margaret; Owen Crabb; Arthur Opfer; and Ronald Budig. Drive Right, 10th ed. Scott Foresman Addison Wesley, 2000.
• Knox, Jean McBee. Drinking, Driving, and Drugs. Chelsea House, 1998.
• Pavelka, Ed, and Editors of Bicycling Magazine. Bicycling Magazine’s Complete Book of Road Cycling Skills. Rodale Inc., 1998.
• Pease, Robert A. How to Drive Into Accidents and How Not To. Pease Publishing, 1998.
• Wallace, Roy M., and Bill Katovsky. Bike for Life. Marlowe & Co., 2005.

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Theater

While earning the Theater merit badge, Scouts will learn to appreciate live performances as members of the audience as well as go behind the footlights to see the view from the other side. Much more goes on in theater than ever meets the audience’s eye.

Requirements

1. See or read three full-length plays or scripts. These can be from the stage, movies, television, or video. Write a review of each. Comment on the story, acting, and staging.
2. Write a one-act play that will take at least eight minutes to perform. The play must have a main character, conflict, and a climax.
3. Do THREE of the following:
1. Act a major part in a full-length play; or, act a part in three one-act plays.
2. Direct a play. Cast, rehearse, and stage it. The play must be at least 10 minutes long.
3. Design the set for a play or a production of a circus. Make a model of it.
4. Design the costumes for five characters in one play set in a time before 1900.
5. Show skill in stage makeup. Make up yourself or a friend as an old man, a clown, an extraterrestrial, or a monster as directed.
6. Help with the building of scenery for one full-length play or two one-act plays.
7. Design the lighting for a play; or, under guidance, handle the lighting for a play.
4. Mime or pantomime any ONE of the following, chosen by your counselor.
1. You have come into a large room. It is full of pictures, furniture, and other things of interest.
2. As you are getting on a bus, your books fall into a puddle. By the time you pick them up, the bus has driven off.
3. You have failed a school test. You are talking with your teacher, who does not buy your story.
4. You are at camp with a new Scout. You try to help him pass a cooking test. He learns very slowly.
5. You are at a banquet. The meat is good. You don’t like the vegetable. The dessert is ice cream.
6. You are a circus performer such as a juggler, high-wire artist, or lion tamer doing a routine.
5. Explain the following: proscenium arch, central or arena staging, spotlight, floodlight, flies, center stage, stage right, stage left, stage brace, stage crew, cyclorama, portal, sound board.
6. Do two short entertainment features that you could present either alone or with others for a troop meeting or campfire.

Resources

Scouting Literature

Art, Cinematography, Communications, Journalism, Model Design and Building, Painting, and Reading merit badge pamphlets.

Books

• Aitken, Maria. Style: Acting in High Comedy. Applause, 1996.
• Bloom, Michael. Thinking Like a Director: A Practical Handbook. Faber & Faber, 2001.
• Brown, John Russell, ed. The Oxford Illustrated History of Theatre. Oxford Press, 2001.
• Bruder, Melissa. A Practical Handbook for the Actor. Vintage Books, 1986.
• Campbell, Drew. Technical Theater for Nontechnical People. Allworth Press, 1999.
• Carter, Paul. The Backstage Handbook: An Illustrated Almanac of Technical Information, 3rd ed. Broadway Press, 1994.
• Catron, Louis E. The Elements of Playwriting. Waveland Press, 2001.
• Clurman, Harold. On Directing. Touchstone Books, 1997.
• Cohen, Edward M. Working on a New Play. Limelight Editions, 1995.
• Corson, Richard. Stage Makeup, 9th ed. Pearson Allyn & Bacon, 2000.
• Covey, Liz, and Rosemary Ingham. The Costume Designer’s Handbook, 2nd ed. Heinemann, 1992.
• Fraser, Neil. Stage Lighting Explained. Crowood Press, 2002.
• Gillette, J. Michael. Theatrical Design and Production: An Introduction to Scene Design and Construction, Lighting, Sound, Costume, and Makeup. McGraw-Hill, 1999.
• Kipnis, Claude. The Mime Book. Meriwether Publishing, 1990.
• Korty, Carol. Writing Your Own Plays: Creating, Adapting, Improvising. Players Press, 2000.
• Novelly, Maria C. Theatre Games for Young Performers: Improvisations and Exercises for Developing Acting Skills. Meriwether Publishing, 1985.
• Pecktal, Lynn. Designing and Drawing for the Theatre. McGraw-Hill, 1994.
• Pennington, Lee. The Actor’s Edge. Marble Falls Press, 1996.
• Peterson, Lenka; Dan O’Connor, and Robert Coles. Kids Take the Stage: Helping Young People Discover the Creative Outlet of Theater. Back Stage Books, 1997.
• Smith, Ronn, and Ming Cho Lee. American Set Design Two. Theatre Communications Group, 1991.
• Swinfield, Rosemarie. Stage Makeup Step-By-Step. Betterway Publications, 1995.
• Walters, Graham. Stage Lighting Step-by-Step: The Complete Guide on Setting the Stage With Light to Get Dramatic Results. Writer’s Digest Books, 1997.
• Yager, Fred, and Jan Yager. Career Opportunities in the Film Industry. Facts on File, 2003.

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