http://boyslife.org Play challenging online games, laugh at funny jokes, build amazing projects and find lots of fun at the online home of Boys' Life, the official youth magazine for the Boy Scouts of America. Sat, 11 Feb 2012 05:13:19 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.com/ http://s2.wp.com/i/buttonw-com.png http://boyslife.org http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/26997/welding/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/26997/welding/#comments Mon, 30 Jan 2012 22:06:38 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=26997 Welding is the process of joining with a weld -- joining or combining similar pieces of metal by heating them with a flame torch or an electric current, then hammering or pressing them together while they are soft. Welding plays a major role in our modern world, and mastery of the skill can lead to exciting career opportunities. Someday, you may have an opportunity to experience exciting new career paths in welding.]]> Welding is the process of joining with a weld — joining or combining similar pieces of metal by heating them with a flame torch or an electric current, then hammering or pressing them together while they are soft. Welding plays a major role in our modern world, and mastery of the skill can lead to exciting career opportunities. Someday, you may have an opportunity to experience exciting new career paths in welding.

]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/26997/welding/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/22657/chess-2/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/22657/chess-2/#comments Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:55:21 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=22657 Chess is among the oldest board games in the world, and it ranks among the most popular games ever created. Chess is played worldwide—even over the Internet. Players meet for fun and in competition, everywhere from kitchen tables and park benches to formal international tournaments.]]> Chess is among the oldest board games in the world, and it ranks among the most popular games ever created. Chess is played worldwide—even over the Internet. Players meet for fun and in competition, everywhere from kitchen tables and park benches to formal international tournaments. To play chess well requires deep concentration and mental alertness.

]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/22657/chess-2/feed/ 22 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/19323/robotics/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/19323/robotics/#comments Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:42:48 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=19323 ]]> Learn more about Robotics merit badge! Click here to visit our interactive merit badge website where you’ll find resources, tips, expert advice, games and activities.

]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/19323/robotics/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/16591/geocaching/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/16591/geocaching/#comments Wed, 08 Dec 2010 21:35:50 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=16591 The word geocache is a combination of “geo,” which means “earth,” and “cache,” which means “a hiding place.” Geocaching describes a hiding place on planet Earth—a hiding place you can find using a GPS unit. ]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/16591/geocaching/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13974/scouting-heritage/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13974/scouting-heritage/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:20:40 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=13974 ]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13974/scouting-heritage/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13970/inventing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13970/inventing/#comments Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:15:33 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=13970 Inventing involves finding technological solutions to real-world problems. Inventors understand the importance of inventing to society because they creatively think of ways to improve the lives of others. Explore the world of inventing through this new merit badge, and discover your inner inventiveness.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/13970/inventing/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/11118/scuba-diving/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/11118/scuba-diving/#comments Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:13:47 +0000 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/?p=11118 ]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/11118/scuba-diving/feed/ 8 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3290/salesmanship/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3290/salesmanship/#comments Thu, 03 Jan 2008 21:15:31 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3290/salesmanship/ By studying salesmanship, Scouts can learn self-confidence, motivation, friendliness, and the persistence necessary to overcome obstacles and solve problems. Sales can offer a challenging and rewarding career for those who enjoy interacting with people from all walks of life.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3290/salesmanship/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3125/metalwork/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3125/metalwork/#comments Tue, 18 Dec 2007 22:33:44 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3125/metalwork/ Scouts will begin their work on this merit badge by learning about the properties of metal, how to use simple metalworking tools, and the basic metalworking techniques. Then they will practice using these tools and techniques before concentrating on the more intricate skills of one of four metalworking options.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3125/metalwork/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3007/bird-study/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3007/bird-study/#comments Tue, 11 Dec 2007 21:02:02 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3007/bird-study/ Birds are among the most fascinating creatures on Earth. Many are beautifully colored. Others are accomplished singers. Many of the most important discoveries about birds and how they live have been made by amateur birders. In pursuing this hobby, a Scout might someday make a valuable contribution to our understanding of the natural world.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3007/bird-study/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2965/american-business/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2965/american-business/#comments Thu, 06 Dec 2007 17:28:59 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2965/american-business/ Earning the American Business merit badge can help Scouts learn practical business matters that will be useful throughout life. Learning how businesses function will help you understand society and uncover a number of career options.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2965/american-business/feed/ 9 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3174/woodwork/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3174/woodwork/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:02:16 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3174/woodwork/ Wood is an amazingly versatile, practical, yet beautiful material. A skilled craftsman can use wood to fashion ust about anything. As a woodworker or carpenter, you will find no end of useful, valuable, and fun items you can make yourself, from wood.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3174/woodwork/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3173/wood-carving/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3173/wood-carving/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:01:50 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3173/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3173/wood-carving/feed/ 11 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3172/wilderness-survival/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3172/wilderness-survival/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:01:19 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3172/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3172/wilderness-survival/feed/ 13 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3171/whitewater/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3171/whitewater/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:00:42 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3171/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3171/whitewater/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3170/weather/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3170/weather/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 16:00:14 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3170/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3170/weather/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3169/waterskiing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3169/waterskiing/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:59:02 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3169/waterskiing/ 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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3169/waterskiing/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3168/veterinary-medicine/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3168/veterinary-medicine/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:57:44 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3168/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3168/veterinary-medicine/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3167/truck-transportation/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3167/truck-transportation/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:57:10 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3167/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3167/truck-transportation/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3166/traffic-safety/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3166/traffic-safety/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:56:26 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3166/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3166/traffic-safety/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3165/theater/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3165/theater/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:55:57 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3165/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.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3165/theater/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3164/textile/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3164/textile/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:55:25 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3164/textile/ People use countless fibers and fabrics in their everyday lives: clothes, carpets, curtains, towels, sheets, upholstered furniture. Add to that list boat sails, book bindings, bandages, flags, sleeping bags, mailbags, airbags, seat belts, backpacks, parachutes, umbrellas, basketball nets, and more.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3164/textile/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3163/swimming/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3163/swimming/#comments Fri, 19 Jan 2007 15:54:02 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3163/swimming/ Swimming is a leisure activity, a competitive sport, and a basic survival skill. Scouts who earn this badge will learn about safety when swimming and diving, how swimming can contribute to overall fitness and health, and gain some basic competitive swimming skills.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3163/swimming/feed/ 14 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3147/reading/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3147/reading/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:44:57 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3147/reading/ If you have ever wanted to go back in time or wished you could visit the future, if you are curious about the world, or if you are interested in how things work or like to learn new things, these are all reasons why you should want to read. Reading is fascinating. It's full of surprises. And it will take you places you can't get to in any other way.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3147/reading/feed/ 14 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3146/railroading/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3146/railroading/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:44:31 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3146/railroading/ By earning this badge, Scouts can learn about the history of railroading, its place in modern society, careers in railroading, and hobbies related to railroading.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3146/railroading/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3145/radio/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3145/radio/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:44:06 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3145/radio/ Radio is a way to send information, or communications, from one place to another. Broadcasting includes both one-way radio (a person hears the information but can¹t reply) as well as two-way radio (where the same person can both receive and send messages).]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3145/radio/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3144/pulp-and-paper/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3144/pulp-and-paper/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:43:38 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3144/pulp-and-paper/ Here's an astonishing number to digest. Each person in the United States uses about 700 pounds of paper each year. Paper is everywhere in our lives. Every year in the United States, more than 2 billion individual books, 24 billion newspapers, and 350 million magazines are published on paper.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3144/pulp-and-paper/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3143/public-speaking/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3143/public-speaking/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:43:07 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3143/public-speaking/ A lot happens during the course of every person's life and your ability to communicate your feelings and ideas is the best way to connect to the larger world. Even if you haven't stood at a podium on the stage and find the whole idea scary, sooner or later, someone is going to ask you to get up and say a few words. If you are prepared, it won't be scary. It can even be fun.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3143/public-speaking/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3142/public-health/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3142/public-health/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:42:37 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3142/public-health/ The field of public health deals with maintaining and monitoring the health of communities, and with the detection, cure, and prevention of health risks and diseases. Although public health is generally seen as a community-oriented service, it actually starts with the individual. From a single individual to the family unit to the smallest isolated rural town to the worldwide global community, one person can influence the health of many.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3142/public-health/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3141/pottery/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3141/pottery/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:42:12 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3141/pottery/ The Pottery merit badge provides an introduction to pottery making, enabling Scouts to gain skill and understanding from actually creating pottery. Completing the requirements will include hands-on production of a work of art, from start to finish.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3141/pottery/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3140/plumbing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3140/plumbing/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:41:45 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3140/plumbing/ Plumbing, including pipe fitting, is an important and well-paid occupation. The industry is quite broad. It covers installations and repairs in homes, commercial properties, and factories. Plumbing pipelines are used for water supply, waste drainage, natural-gas heating, and many other purposes.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3140/plumbing/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3139/plant-science/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3139/plant-science/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:41:13 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3139/plant-science/ Plant scientists use their curiosity and knowledge to develop questions about the world of plants. Then they try to answer those questions with further observations and experiments in the laboratory and in the field. To earn this merit badge, Scouts will explore three of the most important plant science specialties: agronomy, horticulture, and field botany.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3139/plant-science/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3138/pioneering/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3138/pioneering/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:40:49 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3138/pioneering/ Pioneering—the knowledge of ropes, knots, and splices along with the ability to build rustic structures by lashing together poles and spars—is among the oldest of Scouting's skills. Practicing rope use and completing projects with lashings also allow Scouts to connect with past generations, ancestors who used many of these skills as they sailed the open seas and lived in America's forests and prairies.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3138/pioneering/feed/ 6 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3137/photography/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3137/photography/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:40:22 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3137/photography/ Beyond capturing family memories, photography offers a chance to be creative. Many photographers use photography to express their creativity, using lighting, composition, depth, color, and content to make their photographs into more than snapshots. Good photographs tell us about a person, a news event, a product, a place, a scientific breakthrough, an endangered animal, or a time in history.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3137/photography/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3136/pets/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3136/pets/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:39:58 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3136/pets/ Pet ownership is a mixture of fun, excitement, responsibility, commitment, expense, and learning. Besides providing a window into the animal world, owning pets gives us opportunities to participate in activities that strengthen the human-animal bond. Pet ownership teaches us about the responsibility we have to the other living beings on this planet, and pets can be just plain fun.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3136/pets/feed/ 10 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3135/personal-management/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3135/personal-management/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:39:31 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3135/personal-management/ Personal management is about mapping a plan for your life that will involve setting short-range and long-range goals and investigating different ways to reach those goals. Education, training, and experience all help make your goals become a reality. To achieve your goals, you will choose the best path and make a commitment to it, while remaining flexible enough to deal with changes and new opportunities.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3135/personal-management/feed/ 9 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3134/personal-fitness/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3134/personal-fitness/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:38:54 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3134/personal-fitness/ Personal fitness is an individual effort and desire to be the best one can be. Regardless of their current levels of personal fitness, in the twelve weeks it will take Scouts to complete the athletic requirements for this merit badge, they will be in better shape, feel better about themselves, have more energy, and gain self-confidence in their overall abilities.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3134/personal-fitness/feed/ 11 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3133/painting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3133/painting/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:38:25 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3133/painting/ This merit badge provides an opportunity for Scouts to learn more about painting, including both the artistic and practical aspects.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3133/painting/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3116/indian-lore/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3116/indian-lore/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:27:20 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3116/indian-lore/ Far different from the stereotypes or common images that are portrayed on film, on television, and in many books and stories, American Indians have many different cultures, languages, religions, styles of dress, and ways of life. To learn about these different groups is to take an exciting journey of discovery in which you will meet some of America's most fascinating peoples.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3116/indian-lore/feed/ 13 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3115/horsemanship/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3115/horsemanship/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:26:27 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3115/horsemanship/ In addition to learning how to safely ride and care for horses, Scouts who earn this merit badge will gain an understanding of the instincts and behaviors of horses and humane and effective methods for training horses.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3115/horsemanship/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3114/home-repairs/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3114/home-repairs/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 22:25:49 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3114/home-repairs/ Successfully completing this badge's requirements can lead to a lifetime of personal and financial rewards: Doing basic home repairs provides a sense of personal pride in one's achievements and increased self-confidence. In addition, safe and successful do-it-yourselfers can easily save a family thousands of dollars in repair bills over the years.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3114/home-repairs/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3006/basketry/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3006/basketry/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:40:42 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3006/basketry/ alt="basketry.jpg" />Basketry is a handy skill for a Scout. A basket can be a sturdy companion on campouts, carrying clothes snugly and efficiently, holding potatoes and corn for roasting over a campfire, or carrying the day's fishing catch back to camp for dinner. Baskets and basket-weaving projects also make great gifts for family and friends.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3006/basketry/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2999/architecture/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2999/architecture/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:04:26 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2999/architecture/ Architecture is not just the special buildings like cathedrals, museums, or sports stadiums we read about or see on television; it is as normal as the homes, places of worship, schools, and shopping malls where we live, worship, work, learn, and play every day. However, architecture is more than just common shelter; building has always satisfied the human need to create something of meaning. Even the simplest form of architecture is a work of art that requires thought and planning.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2999/architecture/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3111/hiking/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3111/hiking/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:01:41 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3111/hiking/ Hiking is a terrific way to keep your body and mind in top shape, both now and for a lifetime. Walking packs power into your legs and makes your heart and lungs healthy and strong. Exploring the outdoors challenges you with discoveries and new ideas. Your senses will improve as you use your eyes and ears to gather information along the way.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3111/hiking/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3110/graphic-arts/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3110/graphic-arts/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:00:59 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3110/graphic-arts/ The field of graphic arts includes many kinds of work in the printing and publishing industries. Graphic arts professionals are involved in the creation of all kinds of printed communication, from business cards to books to billboards. The scope of printing communications is huge.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3110/graphic-arts/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3109/golf/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3109/golf/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 16:00:30 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3109/golf/ Golf is unique because the players police themselves. Other sports depend upon referees or umpires to apply penalties when there are infractions of the rules. In golf, every player is expected to act honorably, and the welfare and integrity of the game rely on every player's honesty. This is why golf often is referred to as a "gentleman's game."]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3109/golf/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3108/geology/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3108/geology/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:59:46 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3108/geology/ Geology is the study of Earth. It includes the study of materials that make up Earth, the processes that change it, and the history of how things happened, including human civilization, which depends on natural materials for existence.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3108/geology/feed/ 6 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3107/genealogy/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3107/genealogy/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:59:12 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3107/genealogy/ Exploring your roots—where your family name came from, why your family lives where it does, what your parents and grandparents did for fun when they were your age—can be fascinating. Discovering your ancestors back through history is what genealogy is all about.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3107/genealogy/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3106/gardening/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3106/gardening/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:58:37 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3106/gardening/ Humans have been growing plants for thousands of years. Farmers and horticulturists make their living growing food and other plants, while other people grow gardens for pleasure. Becoming a good gardener requires a Scout to understand the science of growing plants—how to prepare the soil, how to select and plant seeds, and how to care for the growing plants.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3106/gardening/feed/ 10 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3105/forestry/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3105/forestry/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:58:02 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3105/forestry/ In working through the Forestry merit badge requirements, Scouts will explore the remarkable complexity of a forest and identify many species of trees and plants and the roles they play in a forest's life cycle.They will also discover some of the resources forests provide to humans and come to understand that people have a very large part to play in sustaining the health of forests.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3105/forestry/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2998/archery/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2998/archery/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:56:54 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2998/archery/ Archery is a fun way for Scouts to exercise minds as well as bodies, developing a steady hand, a good eye, and a disciplined mind. This merit badge can provide a thorough introduction to those who are new to the bow and arrow—but even for the experienced archer, earning the badge can help to increase the understanding and appreciation of archery.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/2998/archery/feed/ 14 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3104/fly-fishing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3104/fly-fishing/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:56:13 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3104/fly-fishing/ Fly-fishing is a specialized form of fishing that combines skill and artistry. Because it is so rich with tradition, it is a passion for millions of people. The beauty of the water, the solitude, and the skills that the sport requires have made fly-fishing very important in the lives of many notable people.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3104/fly-fishing/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3103/fishing-2/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3103/fishing-2/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:55:35 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3103/fishing-2/ In Scouting for Boys, Baden-Powell offers this advice: "Every Scout ought to be able to fish in order to get food for himself. A tenderfoot [beginner] who starved on the bank of a river full of fish would look very silly, yet it might happen to one who had never learned to catch fish."]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3103/fishing-2/feed/ 14 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3102/fish-and-wildlife-management/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3102/fish-and-wildlife-management/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:55:00 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3102/fish-and-wildlife-management/ Wildlife management is the science and art of managing the wildlife—both animals and fish—with which we share our planet. Maintaining the proper balance and the dynamics that go with it requires humankind's attention. We use this stewardship tool to help minimize or eradicate the possibility of extinction of any given species. We want our descendants to have the opportunity to experience the same animal diversity that we now enjoy.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3102/fish-and-wildlife-management/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3101/first-aid/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3101/first-aid/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:54:26 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3101/first-aid/ First aid—caring for injured or ill persons until they can receive professional medical care—is an important skill for every Scout. With some knowledge of first aid, a Scout can provide immediate care and help to someone who is hurt or who becomes ill. First aid can help prevent infection and serious loss of blood. It could even save a limb or a life.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3101/first-aid/feed/ 18 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3100/fire-safety/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3100/fire-safety/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:53:55 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3100/fire-safety/ The ability to use fire safely is essential to human survival. By earning this merit badge, Scouts will learn to uses fire safely and responsibly, how to prevent home fires, and how to handle fire safely, as well as burn prevention, and camping safety.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3100/fire-safety/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3099/fingerprinting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3099/fingerprinting/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:53:15 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3099/fingerprinting/ In earning the Fingerprinting merit badge, Scouts will learn about and use an important technique that is used by law enforcement officers, along with other materials like matching dental records and DNA sampling, to help identify amnesia victims, missing persons, abducted children, and others.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3099/fingerprinting/feed/ 9 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3098/farm-mechanics/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3098/farm-mechanics/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:52:35 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3098/farm-mechanics/ From the mattock and hoe to the horse and mule, the cotton gin and reaper, the tractor and air seeder—this is the story of farm equipment. Today, most farms are mechanized and farmers can do most of their own maintenance work and make the adjustments needed on their many intricate farm implements.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3098/farm-mechanics/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3097/family-life/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3097/family-life/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:51:55 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3097/family-life/ The family is the basic unit of society and is important to both individuals and communities. The world is rapidly changing, making today's society much more complex than ever before. As Scouts earn this merit badge, they will realize why it is important to know more about family life and how to strengthen their families.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3097/family-life/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3096/environmental-science/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3096/environmental-science/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:51:21 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3096/environmental-science/ While earning the Environmental Science merit badge, Scouts will get a taste of what it is like to be an environmental scientist, making observations and carrying out experiments to investigate the natural world.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3096/environmental-science/feed/ 13 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3095/entrepreneurship/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3095/entrepreneurship/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:50:41 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3095/entrepreneurship/ By earning the Entrepreneurship merit badge, Scouts will learn about identifying opportunities, creating and evaluating business ideas, and exploring the feasibility (how doable it is) of an idea for a new business. They will also have the chance to fit everything together as they start and run their own business ventures.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3095/entrepreneurship/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3094/engineering/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3094/engineering/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:50:03 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3094/engineering/ Engineers use both science and technology to turn ideas into reality, devising all sorts of things, ranging from a tiny, low-cost battery for your cell phone to a gigantic dam across the mighty Yangtze River in China.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3094/engineering/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3093/energy/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3093/energy/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:49:18 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3093/energy/ Saving, producing, and using energy wisely will be critical to America's future. If we are to leave future generations with a world in which they can live as well or better than we have, SCouts and other potential leaders of tomorrow must begin the hard work of understanding energy and the vital role it will play in the future.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3093/energy/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3092/emergency-preparedness/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3092/emergency-preparedness/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:48:43 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3092/emergency-preparedness/ Scouts are often called upon to help because they know first aid and they know about the discipline and planning needed to react to an emergency situation. Earning this merit badge helps a Scout to be prepared by learning the actions that can be helpful and needed before, during, and after an emergency.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3092/emergency-preparedness/feed/ 7 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3091/electronics/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3091/electronics/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:48:04 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3091/electronics/ Electronics is the science that controls the behavior of electrons so that some type of useful function is performed. Today, electronics is a fast-changing and exciting field.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3091/electronics/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3090/electricity/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3090/electricity/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:47:31 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3090/electricity/ Electricity is a powerful and fascinating force of nature. As early as 600 b.c., observers of the physical world suspected that electricity existed but did not have a name for it. In fact, real progress in unraveling the mystery of electricity has come only within the last 250 years.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3090/electricity/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3089/drafting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3089/drafting/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:46:52 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3089/drafting/ Drafting is a highly refined form of drawing used to communicate ideas to engineers, architects, and craftspeople. In earning this badge, Scouts learn the importance of accuracy and simplicity in developing a drawing that shows precise details in a simple format.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3089/drafting/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3088/dog-care/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3088/dog-care/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:45:12 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3088/dog-care/ The love and interdependence between humans and dogs has endured for thousands of years. Evidence suggests that dogs and humans started relying on each other thousands of years ago. Today, dogs are our coworkers and companions. They assist search-and-rescue teams, law enforcement officers, hunters, farmers, and people with disabilities. They also play with us and keep us company.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3088/dog-care/feed/ 7 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3087/disabilities-awareness/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3087/disabilities-awareness/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:44:33 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3087/disabilities-awareness/ Look around at the Scouts in your unit, the members of your sports teams, and the kids in your class - you will see that each person has their own personalities, distinct interests and ideas, different physical features, and different strengths and needs.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3087/disabilities-awareness/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3086/dentistry/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3086/dentistry/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:43:37 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3086/dentistry/ Teeth do a lot more than just peek out from under that winning smile. They have all sorts of duties, and having healthy teeth will help a person to eat, speak, and look great.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3086/dentistry/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3085/cycling/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3085/cycling/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:42:49 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3085/cycling/ Since 1911, hundreds of thousands of Scouts have made the most of their two-wheel adventures by earning the Cycling merit badge. Whether you just got your first bicycle or have been cycling for years, you will learn more about your bike and what it can do by working on the requirements for this badge.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3085/cycling/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3084/crime-prevention/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3084/crime-prevention/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:40:30 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3084/crime-prevention/ Preventing crime, which can be as simple as reducing the opportuntities for crime to occur, is far less costly than apprehending and bringing legal action against those who break the law and it helps save people from the anguish of being victims.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3084/crime-prevention/feed/ 6 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3083/cooking/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3083/cooking/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:39:47 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3083/cooking/ The Cooking merit badge introduces principles of cooking that can be used both at home or in the outdoors. Scouts who earn this badge will learn about food safety, nutritional guidelines, meal planning, and methods of food preparation, and will review the variety of culinary (or cooking) careers available.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3083/cooking/feed/ 8 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3082/computers/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3082/computers/#comments Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:39:06 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3082/computers/ In the modern world, computers are found almost anywhere. They are essential to business, industry, science, and medicine, and have become a part of everyday life. Computers save time and automate tedious tasks, allowing people to devote more energy to creativity, judgment, and analysis—human qualities that likely will push computer technology even further in the future.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3082/computers/feed/ 7 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3055/composite-materials/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3055/composite-materials/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:53:35 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3055/composite-materials/ Composites can be found just about everywhere: in airplanes and sports cars, golf clubs and guitars, boats and baseball bats, bathtubs and circuit boards, and even bridges. Composites make bicycles and skis lighter, kayaks and canoes stronger, houses warmer, and helmets tougher.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3055/composite-materials/feed/ 1 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3054/communications/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3054/communications/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:53:01 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3054/communications/ This clear and concise definition comes from the U.S. Department of Education: "Communication focuses on how people use messages to generate meanings within and across various contexts, cultures, channels, and media. The field of communication promotes the effective and ethical practice of human communication."]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3054/communications/feed/ 9 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3053/collections/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3053/collections/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:52:22 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3053/collections/ Collecting can be an educational and financially rewarding pastime: a collector must educate himself about a specific subject, be able to tell which items are worth preserving, how to catalog and organize his collection, and how to evaluate the value of items.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3053/collections/feed/ 12 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3052/coin-collecting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3052/coin-collecting/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:51:46 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3052/coin-collecting/ Coin collecting is one of the oldest of all hobbies. Hoards of ancient coins found in excavations indicate that coins were one of the first collectibles. From earliest times, people valued coins not only as a means of trading and storing wealth, but also as miniature works of art.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3052/coin-collecting/feed/ 12 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3051/climbing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3051/climbing/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:50:49 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3051/climbing/ Climbing is not a sport that requires tremendous muscular strength, it demands mental toughness and the willingness to practice hard to master a set of skills. The adventure of climbing can also provide a new way to enjoy the outdoors.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3051/climbing/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3050/citizenship-in-the-world/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3050/citizenship-in-the-world/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:50:07 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3050/citizenship-in-the-world/ Scouts who earn the Citizenship in the World merit badge will discover that they are already a citizen of the world. How good a citizen each person is depends on his willingness to understand and appreciate the values, traditions, and concerns of people in other countries.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3050/citizenship-in-the-world/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3049/citizenship-in-the-nation/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3049/citizenship-in-the-nation/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:49:26 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3049/citizenship-in-the-nation/ As Scouts fulfill the requirements for this merit badge, they will learn how to become active citizens are aware of and grateful for their liberties and rights, to participate in their governments and protect their freedom, helping to defend their country and standing up for individual rights on behalf of all its citizens.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3049/citizenship-in-the-nation/feed/ 13 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3048/citizenship-in-the-community/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3048/citizenship-in-the-community/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:48:46 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3048/citizenship-in-the-community/ A nation is a patchwork of communities that differ from each other and may be governed differently. But regardless of how local communities differ, they all have one point in common: In the United States, local government means self-government. Good citizens help to make decisions about their community through their elected local officials.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3048/citizenship-in-the-community/feed/ 18 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3047/cinematography/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3047/cinematography/#comments Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:47:55 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3047/cinematography/ Cinematography includes the fundamentals of producing motion pictures, including the use of effective light, accurate focus, careful composition (or arrangement), and appropriate camera movement to tell stories. In earning the badge, Scouts will also learn to develop a story and describe other pre- and postproduction processes necessary for making a quality motion picture.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3047/cinematography/feed/ 8 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3008/bugling/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3008/bugling/#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2007 21:22:55 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3008/bugling/ What would summer camp be without the bugle sounding "Reveille" in the morning and "Taps" in the evening? Camp and the bugle go together. The bugle is an ideal instrument for the beginning musician because most of the music uses only four notes. The ability to read music is not necessary, because the tunes are familiar and can be played ear.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3008/bugling/feed/ 14 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3009/camping/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3009/camping/#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2007 21:22:40 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/uncategorized/3009/camping/ Camping is one of the best-known methods of the Scouting movement. When he founded the Scouting movement in the early 1900s, Robert Baden-Powell encouraged every Scout to learn the art of living out-of-doors. He believed a young person able to take care of himself while camping would have the confidence to meet life's other challenges, too.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3009/camping/feed/ 13 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3010/canoeing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3010/canoeing/#comments Thu, 11 Jan 2007 21:22:21 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/uncategorized/3010/canoeing/ For several centuries, the canoe was a primary method of travel for explorers and settlers. Today, it remains an important part of the wilderness experience and an enjoyable leisure activity that teaches communication, teamwork, and physical fitness.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3010/canoeing/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3301/surveying/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3301/surveying/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:42:08 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3301/surveying/ While earning this merit badge, Scouts will discover how land is measured and how it is described so that others can know where boundary lines are. They will have a chance to use some fine measuring instruments, apply advanced mathematics, operate computing equipment, and create a survey map.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3301/surveying/feed/ 0 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3300/stamp-collecting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3300/stamp-collecting/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:41:38 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3300/stamp-collecting/ The world's most popular hobby, stamp collecting is enjoyed by millions throughout the world. Through this hobby. you can experience history: postage stamps are like tiny windows that introduce the people of the world to the country's leaders, customs, history, products, and environment.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3300/stamp-collecting/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3299/sports/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3299/sports/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:39:30 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3299/sports/ Millions of people participate in sports every year. For some the appeal is the close friendships that come with being part of a team. Some revel in the joy of victory and lessons of defeat. For some, the personal fitness is so important that exercise becomes a daily need. And still others desire the feeling of achievement, that feeling of measurable improvement that comes with dedication to a sport.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3299/sports/feed/ 5 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3298/space-exploration/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3298/space-exploration/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:37:28 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3298/space-exploration/ Space is mysterious. We explore space for many reasons, not least because we don't know what is out there, it is vast, and humans are full of curiosity. Each time we send explorers into space, we learn something we didn't know before. We discover a little more of what is there.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3298/space-exploration/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3297/soil-and-water-conservation/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3297/soil-and-water-conservation/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:34:12 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3297/soil-and-water-conservation/ Conservation isn't just the responsibility of soil and plant scientists, hydrologists, wildlife managers, landowners, and the forest or mine owner alone. It is the duty of every person to learn more about the natural resources on which our lives depend so that we can help make sure that these resources are used intelligently and cared for properly.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3297/soil-and-water-conservation/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3296/snow-sports/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3296/snow-sports/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:32:30 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3296/snow-sports/ Skiing and snowboarding are the fastest and most thrilling ways to travel on foot in snow country. These sports also provide the physical benefits of fresh air, rhythmic action, and strenuous exercise. Many games and contests give snow sports variety and added rewards.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3296/snow-sports/feed/ 7 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3295/small-boat-sailing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3295/small-boat-sailing/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:29:50 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3295/small-boat-sailing/ Sailing is one of the most enjoyable pastimes on the open water. The quiet and peacefulness of the water can provide a pleasant break from everyday life. However, smooth sailing requires paying careful attention to safety.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3295/small-boat-sailing/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3294/skating/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3294/skating/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:22:10 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3294/skating/ This merit badge introduces Scouts to the exciting world of ice skating, roller skating, and in-line skating. In addition to being an enjoyable leisure activity that promotes fitness, there are a variety of athletic careers in skating.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3294/skating/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3293/shotgun-shooting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3293/shotgun-shooting/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:20:42 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3293/shotgun-shooting/ A shotgun is a precision instrument, designed to shoot a shot charge in a specific pattern to cover a designated area at a certain distance. Unlike a rifle, the bore of the shotgun is not rifled, so the shot emerging from the muzzle is not spinning.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3293/shotgun-shooting/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3292/sculpture/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3292/sculpture/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:17:45 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3292/sculpture/ This merit badge introduces Scouts to sculpture, an art form that allows an artist to express what he sees and feels by using these three dimensions by shaping materials such as clay, stone, metal, and wood.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3292/sculpture/feed/ 8 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3291/scholarship/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3291/scholarship/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:16:26 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3291/scholarship/ Working on the Scholarship merit badge provides Scouts with a great opportunity to become more successful in school. They will learn how to improve their skills in the classroom, develop good study habits, and master techniques for writing reports and taking tests.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3291/scholarship/feed/ 2 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3288/safety/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3288/safety/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:09:49 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3288/safety/ Knowing about safety helps Scouts to make the right choices and to take the best actions to avoid accidents by making informed choices in their everyday activities and to respond appropriately during an emergency situation.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3288/safety/feed/ 3 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3287/rowing/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3287/rowing/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:08:52 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3287/rowing/ Rowing is the use of oars as a means of propelling boats, has grown from a basic method of transportation to a competitive sport and an enjoyable method of exercising.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3287/rowing/feed/ 4 Boys' Life http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3286/rifle-shooting/ http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3286/rifle-shooting/#comments Wed, 03 Jan 2007 21:07:03 +0000 Boys' Life http://www.boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3286/rifle-shooting/ Unless a rifle is handled incorrectly or recklessly, it is not dangerous. A rifle, like any other precision instrument, is manufactured to perform a specific task and can do so at no risk to the user or others. By earning this badge, Scouts can develop their shooting skills while learning safe practices.]]>
]]> http://boyslife.org/about-scouts/merit-badge-requirements/3286/rifle-shooting/feed/ 16 Boys' Life