Merit Badge Camp Program Guide

Seven Mountains Scout Camp

July 2-3, 2013

Operated By: Juniata Valley Council, BSA

9 Taylor Drive Reedsville, PA 17084

717-667-9263, www.jvcbsa.org

Last Revised: May 1, 2013 Revised by: Jonathan Pitt

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Table of Contents General Information……………………………………………………………………………….. 3

Contact Information………………………………………………………………………………. 3

Important Dates……………………………………………………………………………………. 4

Camp Information…………………………………………………………………………………. 4

Registration Information………………………………………………………………………. 4

Costs and Fees……………………………………………………………………………………… 5

Required Personal Gear………………………………………………………………………… 5

Adult Leadership………………………………………………………………………………….. 5

Medical Forms and Medication……………………………………………………………… 6

Check-in/Check-out………………………………………………………………………………. 6

Program Schedule…………………………………………………………………………………. 6

Merit Badge Program……………………………………………………………………………. 7

Merit Badge Philosophy…………………………………………………………………… 7

Merit Badges Offered………………………………………………………………………. 7

Merit Badges Scheduled………………………………………………………………….. 8

Pre-Completed Requirements………………………………………………………….. 9

Listing of Merit Badge Requirements……………………………………………………… 9

Radio………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Chess………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11

Welding…………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

Cinematography………………………………………………………………………………. 14

Engineering……………………………………………………………………………………… 15

Surveying………………………………………………………………………………………… 16

Railroading……………………………………………………………………………………… 17

Robotics………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19

Farm Mechanics………………………………………………………………………………. 21

Crime Prevention…………………………………………………………………………….. 22

Automotive Maintenance………………………………………………………………….. 23

Plumbing…………………………………………………………………………………………. 26

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General Information The Juniata Valley Council, BSA is offering a two-day merit badge midway style summer camp program this year, in addition to its regular Boy Scout Summer Camp programs. The goals of this effort are:

� Provide an opportunity for scouts in and around the Juniata Valley Council to earn merit badges that are not frequently earned.

� Provide another opportunity for scouts to spend a night camping at Seven Mountains Scout Camp.

� Provide an opportunity for scouts that are attending high adventure programs and/or the National Jamboree to not fall behind on earning merit badges due to not attending summer camp.

� Initiate recruitment of new, previously unaffiliated, merit badge counselors into the scouting program to augment our already dedicated volunteers.

This merit badge camp will be held at Seven Mountains Scout Camp, and will make use of the regular summer camp facilities, including platform tents, the dining hall, and lodges/pavilions. It will not, however, employ the summer camp program staff, but rather will be staffed by counselors already registered with the Council or recruited from the community. The remainder of this document provides various logistical details for the merit badge camp, including important dates, registration information, program details and schedule, and pre-requisite completed requirements information. It will be updated as details become available.

Contact Information For questions that are not answered in this document, please contact the Camp Director: Charles Apgar Oneida District Executive Juniata Valley Council, BSA 717-667-9267 capgar@bsamail.org

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Important Dates June 1 Registration Deadline

June 3 Distribution of Pre-Requisites to Registrants

July 2-3

Merit Badge Camp at Seven Mountains

Camp Information All general camp information, including directions, emergency contact information, camp map, camp services, dining hall information, and general camp policies regarding permitted activities can be found in the 2013 Boy Scout Resident Camp Leaders Guide. This document is available on-line at: http://www.jvcbsa.org/camping/boy-scout-summer-camp/leader-guide/18363 This document will detail only those parts of the guide that are different for the two-day merit badge summer camp.

Registration Information Registration for the merit badge summer camp will be conducted on-line using the same system that is in place for the regular summer camp program. The following link will take you the registration page for all summer camp activities: http://www.jvcbsa.org/newsfeed/register-for-2013-summer-camp-here/9107 Click on the “Merit Badge Camp July 2-3” link to begin the registration process. You will need to start a new registration for your unit or person in addition to any registrations you have pending for other summer camp programs at Seven Mountains Scout Camp. The registration process consists of the following steps:

1) Entering the number of scouts that will attend the camp. 2) Assigning names and contact information to the individual registrations. 3) Choosing merit badge selections from the program list. 4) Confirming that there are no conflicts with the chosen schedule. 5) Saving, printing, and sending the registration to the Council office with

payment. Please note that all registrations must be received by June 1 so that timely organization of the camp and ordering of supplies can be completed.

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Costs and Fees The cost for the merit badge summer camp is $79, and includes all meals, use of camp tents, and any specific supplies needed for any of the merit badges. This camp is organized under a “one cost” policy, where every scout pays the same regardless of program choices. Unlike the regular summer camp program, there are no discounts for second sons. Refunds will not be granted after the June 1 registration deadline due to the need to advance order supplies. For information about camperships for scouts with a financial need, please contact the Camp Director, Charles Apgar, at 717-667-9267 or capgar@bsamail.org

Required Personal Gear Scouts attending the merit badge summer camp should pack as if they are attending a shortened summer camp session. Scouts will be sleeping in camp platform tents, and have access to the usual camp shower facilities. Meals will be served in the dining hall; personal mess kit gear is not necessary. For additional details on suggested packing items for summer camp, see the Leader’s Guide for Seven Mountains Scout Camp, available at: http://www.jvcbsa.org/camping/boy-scout-summer-camp/leader-guide/18363 As stated in the Cost and Fees section, all kits and other supplies related to the merit badge program are included in the registration fee. However, items such as pencils, pens, notebooks, etc… are considered personal gear. Look for more details on this after registration is closed.

Note: Blue cards must be obtained from your

scoutmaster and brought to camp with you!

Adult Leadership The merit badge summer camp is being offered under the “patrol activities” guidelines for the BSA Youth Protection program. As such, units are not required to provide adult leadership for their scouts attending this camp. During the overnight, staff for this camp will sleep in campsites with the scouts.

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Medical Forms and Medication Medical form parts A and B (health history and parental permission) will be required for each scout at on-site registration. Part C is not required because the event is less then 72 hours in duration. For more information on administration of medication while at camp, please see the 2013 Leader’s Guide for Boy Scout Resident Camp.

Check-in/Check-out Check-in will be from 8-9AM on Tuesday, July 2nd. The location of check-in will be determined closer to the date of camp and updated information will be distributed to registered scouts as it becomes available. At registration, any remaining payments will be due, and required medical forms will be collected. We will also confirm that all necessary blue cards have been obtained from your unit’s scoutmaster. Due to the overnight nature of the program, there will be no official checkout procedure other then for each scout to ensure that they have all of their personal gear and completed or partial blue cards. The merit badge camp concludes at 5PM on Wednesday, July 3rd and parents should arrange transportation for their scouts at this time.

Program Schedule The following tables detail the overall program schedule for the merit badge summer camp. Locations of some activities are still To Be Determined (TBD), and will be updated as that information becomes available.

July 2nd, 2013 Time Event Location

08:00 AM Registration TBD

09:00 AM Program Session I See Merit Badge Schedule

12:30 PM Lunch Dining Hall

01:30 PM Program Session II See Merit Badge Schedule

05:00 PM Break Camp Sites

05:45 PM Flag Retreat & Dinner Parade Field/Dining Hall

Evening Free Time/Merit Badge Work Time Camp Sites/Dining Hall

July 3rd, 2013 Time Event Location

08:00 AM Flag Raising & Breakfast Parade Field/Dining Hall

09:00 AM Program Session III See Merit Badge Schedule

12:30 PM Lunch Dining Hall

01:30 PM Program Session IV See Merit Badge Schedule

05:00 PM Depart Dining Hall/Parking Lot

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Merit Badge Program This section of the program guide provides the background and details of the merit badge program for this summer camp event. This includes our philosophy for earning merit badges, which badges are offered and how that list was generated, and the current schedule of badges. Merit Badge Philosophy

The BSA rules for earning a merit badge state that a scout must “meet the requirements as they are stated – no more and no less.” This merit badge camp will abide by this tenant in holding each scout accountable to demonstrate that they have fulfilled the requirements of each badge for which they are enrolled. In order for a scout to be sure they earn the badges for which they have enrolled, it is expected that they will:

� Complete all pre-required work before arriving at camp, and have it ready to be presented to the merit badge counselor.

� Attend and actively participate in the session(s) scheduled for the merit badges they have chosen.

� Demonstrate the learning of knowledge or mastery of a skill to the level prescribed in the BSA merit badge requirements and satisfaction of the counselor.

While it is the desire of the staff for this camp and the JVC to see each scout successfully complete all badges for which they enrolled, failure to perform or participate in any of the above list of responsibilities may result in partial completion of a badge. Registration and attendance at the merit badge camp do not alone guarantee successful

completion of the merit badges; each scout must demonstrate that they have fulfilled all

merit badge requirements to earn it as they would with any other counselor.

Merit Badges Offered

The merit badge program for this two-day camp has been carefully considered to provide a unique opportunity for scouts earn badges to which they may otherwise not have access. Of the over 130 merit badges the BSA currently offers, we have down selected to the badges offered at this camp by excluding:

� Eagle required merit badges. � Merit Badges offered at Boy Scout Resident Camp at Seven Mountains. � Advancement day offered merit badges. � Several other badges that are routinely offered in the area.

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This produced a list of approximately 70 merit badges. Of these, each were assessed for the feasibility of completion at a two-day merit badge camp, resulting in approximately 35 badges remaining on a short list. Special preference was given to badges that are not earned frequently, or at all, within the council. At the Klondike Derby event in January, scouts were polled about their top choices, and a final selection was made. Whether an existing counselor was registered for a particular badge or not was not a factor in deciding the program. The final list of badges that will be offered is:

Radio Welding Robotics Auto Maintenance Cinematography Railroading

Chess Engineering Plumbing Crime Prevention Farm Mechanics Surveying

Merit Badge Schedule

It is expected that scouts will schedule for a merit badge during each of the four instruction sessions. The sessions have been designed to be long enough to allow for through coverage of all material and demonstration of necessary skills. It is not anticipated that scouts will schedule “free periods” during the event. The offered merit badges are divided into two groups: ones that can be completed in one session and ones that can be completed in two sessions. Under this model, scouts are able to earn 2-4 merit badges during the course of this camp. They may choose any combination of sessions from the following schedule:

Session I: (Tuesday Morning) Session III: (Wednesday Morning)

Radio (part 1) Robotics (part 1)

Welding (part 1) Cinematography (part 1)

Auto Maintenance (part 1) Railroading

Chess Engineering

Crime Prevention Crime Prevention

Farm Mechanics Farm Mechanics

Session II: (Tuesday Afternoon) Session IV: (Wednesday Afternoon)

Radio (part 2) Robotics (part 2)

Welding (part 2) Cinematography (part 2)

Auto Maintenance (part 2) Railroading

Chess Engineering

Plumbing Plumbing

Surveying Surveying

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Note that this schedule is subject to change based on the number of registered scouts for each merit badge at each time. Every attempt will be made to accommodate a scout’s first selection of merit badges; however, there may arise a situation where a scheduling change requires that an alternate badge be selected. These decisions will be addressed immediately after registration is closed, and schedule changes will promptly be distributed to registered participants. Information regarding the location of merit badge sessions will be distributed as the schedule is finalized or at camp registration on July 2nd. Pre-Completed Requirements

Most merit badges offered at the two-day merit badge camp will have some requirements that must be completed before camp as a pre-requisite for earning the badge. The final determination of which requirements fall under this category will be made by the merit badge camp staff and counselors participating in the program. The final list of pre-reqs will be distributed electronically to the registered scouts on or before the date given above. This guide will also be updated to reflect that information as available, please check back for changes.

Listing of Merit Badge Requirements Radio Merit Badge

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 can't reply) as well as two-way radio (where the same person can both receive and send messages).

1. Explain what radio is. Then discuss the following: a. The differences between broadcast radio and hobby radio b. The differences between broadcasting and two-way communications c. Radio station call signs and how they are used in broadcast radio and

amateur radio d. The phonetic alphabet and how it is used to communicate clearly

2. Do the following: a. Sketch a diagram showing how radio waves travel locally and around

the world. Explain how the broadcast radio stations WWV and WWVH can be used to help determine what you will hear when you listen to a shortwave radio.

b. Explain the difference between a DX and a local station. Discuss what the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) does and how it is different from the International Telecommunication Union.

3. Do the following:

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a. Draw a chart of the electromagnetic spectrum covering 100 kilohertz (kHz) to 1000 megahertz (MHz).

b. Label the MF, HF, VHF, UHF, and microwave portions of the spectrum on your diagram.

c. Locate on your chart at least eight radio services, such as AM and FM commercial broadcast, citizens band (CB), television, amateur radio (at least four amateur radio bands), and public service (police and fire).

4. Explain how radio waves carry information. Include in your explanation: transceiver, transmitter, receiver, amplifier, and antenna.

5. Do the following: a. Explain the differences between a block diagram and a schematic

diagram. b. Draw a block diagram for a radio station that includes a transceiver,

amplifier, microphone, antenna, and feed line. c. Explain the differences between an open circuit, a closed circuit, and a

short circuit. d. Draw eight schematic symbols. Explain what three of the represented

parts do. Find three electrical components to match to three of these symbols.

6. Explain the safety precautions for working with radio gear, including the concept of grounding for direct current circuits, power outlets, and antenna systems.

7. Visit a radio installation (an amateur radio station, broadcast station, or public service communications center, for example) approved in advance by your counselor. Discuss what types of equipment you saw in use, how it was used, what types of licenses are required to operate and maintain the equipment, and the purpose of the station.

8. Find out about three career opportunities in radio. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

9. Do ONE of the following (a OR b OR c): a. Amateur Radio

1. Tell why the FCC has an amateur radio service. Describe some of the activities that amateur radio operators can do on the air, once they have earned an amateur radio license.

2. Using proper call signs, Q signals, and abbreviations, carry on a 10-minute real or simulated amateur radio contact using voice, Morse code, or digital mode. (Licensed amateur radio operators may substitute five QSL cards as evidence of contacts with amateur radio operators from at least three different call districts.) Properly log the real or simulated ham radio contact and record the signal report.

3. Explain at least five Q signals or amateur radio terms you hear while listening.

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4. Explain some of the differences between the Technician, General, and Extra Class license requirements and privileges. Explain who administers amateur radio exams.

5. Explain how you would make an emergency call on voice or Morse code.

6. Explain the differences between handheld transceivers and home "base" transceivers. Explain the uses of mobile amateur radio transceivers and amateur radio repeaters.

b. Broadcast Radio 1. Prepare a program schedule for radio station "KBSA" of exactly

one-half hour, including music, news, commercials, and proper station identification. Record your program on audiotape or in a digital audio format, using proper techniques.

2. Listen to and properly log 15 broadcast stations. Determine the program format and target audience for five of these stations.

3. Explain at least eight terms used in commercial broadcasting, such as segue, cut, fade, continuity, remote, Emergency Alert System, network, cue, dead air, PSA, and playlist.

c. Shortwave Listening 1. Listen across several shortwave bands for four one-hour

periods—at least one period during daylight hours and at least one period at night. Log the stations properly and locate them geographically on a globe.

2. For several major foreign stations (BBC in Great Britain or HCJB in Ecuador, for example), list several frequency bands used by each.

3. Compare your daytime and nighttime logs; note the frequencies on which your selected stations were loudest during each session. Explain differences in the signal strength from one period to the next.

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Chess Merit Badge

1. Discuss with your merit badge counselor the history of the game of chess. Explain why it is considered a game of planning and strategy.

2. Discuss with your merit badge counselor the following: a. The benefits of playing chess, including developing critical thinking

skills, concentration skills, and decision-making skills, and how these skills can help you in other areas of your life

b. Sportsmanship and chess etiquette 3. Demonstrate to your counselor that you know each of the following. Then,

using Scouting's Teaching EDGE*, teach someone (preferably another Scout) who does not know how to play chess:

a. The name of each chess piece b. How to set up a chessboard

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c. How each chess piece moves, including castling and en passant captures

4. Do the following: a. Demonstrate scorekeeping using the algebraic system of chess

notation. b. Discuss the differences between the opening, the middle game, and the

endgame. c. Explain four opening principles. d. Explain the four rules for castling. e. On a chessboard, demonstrate a "scholar's mate" and a "fool's mate." f. Demonstrate on a chessboard four ways a chess game can end in a

draw. 5. Do the following:

a. Explain four of the following elements of chess strategy: exploiting weaknesses, force, king safety, pawn structure, space, tempo, time.

b. Explain any five of these chess tactics: clearance sacrifice, decoy, discovered attack, double attack, fork, interposing, overloading, overprotecting, pin, remove the defender, skewer, zwischenzug.

c. Set up a chessboard with the white king on e1, the white rooks on a1 and h1, and the black king on e5. With White to move first, demonstrate how to force checkmate on the black king.

d. Set up and solve five direct-mate problems provided by your merit badge counselor.

6. Do ONE of the following: a. Play at least three games of chess with other Scouts and/or your merit

badge counselor. Replay the games from your score sheets and discuss with your counselor how you might have played each game differently.

b. Play in a scholastic (youth) chess tournament and use your score sheets from that tournament to replay your games with your merit badge counselor. Discuss with your counselor how you might have played each game differently.

c. Organize and run a chess tournament with at least four players, plus you. Have each competitor play at least two games.

Welding Merit Badge

1. Do the following: a. Explain to your counselor the hazards you are most likely to encounter

while welding, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, or lessen these hazards.

b. Show that you know first aid for, and the prevention of, injuries or illnesses that could occur while welding, including electrical shock, eye injuries, burns, fume inhalation, dizziness, skin irritation, and exposure to hazardous chemicals, including filler metals and welding gases.

2. Do the following:

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a. With your counselor, discuss general safety precautions and Material Safety Data Sheets related to welding. Explain the importance of the MSDS.

b. Describe the appropriate safety gear and clothing that must be worn when welding. Then, present yourself properly dressed for welding—in protective equipment, clothing, and footwear.

c. Explain and demonstrate the proper care and storage of welding equipment, tools, and protective clothing and footwear.

3. Explain the terms welding, electrode, slag, and oxidation. Describe the welding process, how heat is generated, what kind of filler metal is added (if any), and what protects the molten metal from the atmosphere.

4. Name the different mechanical and thermal cutting methods. Choose one method and describe how to use the process. Discuss one advantage and one limitation of this process.

5. Do the following: a. Select two welding processes, and make a list of the different

components of the equipment required for each process. Discuss one advantage and one limitation for each process.

b. Choose one welding process. Set up the process you have chosen, including gas regulators, work clamps, cables, filler materials, and equipment settings. Have your counselor inspect and approve the area for the welding process you have chosen.

6. After successfully completing requirements 1 through 5, use the equipment you prepared for the welding process in 5b to do the following:

a. Using a metal scribe or soapstone, sketch your initial onto a metal plate, and weld a bead on the plate following the pattern of your initial.

b. Cover a small plate (approximately 3" x 3" x ¼") with weld beads side by side.

c. Tack two plates together in a square groove butt joint. d. Weld the two plates together from 6c on both sides. e. Tack two plates together in a T joint, have your counselor inspect it,

then weld a T joint with fillet weld on both sides. f. Tack two plates together in a lap joint, have your counselor inspect it,

then weld a lap joint with fillet weld on both sides. 7. Do the following:

a. Find out about three career opportunities in the welding industry. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why the profession might interest you.

b. Discuss the role of the American Welding Society in the welding profession.

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Cinematography Merit Badge

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.

1. Do the following: a. Discuss and demonstrate the proper elements of a good motion picture.

In your discussion, include visual storytelling, rhythm, the 180-axis rule, camera movement, framing and composition of camera shots, and lens selection.

b. Discuss the cinematographer's role in the moviemaking process. 2. Do the following:

a. In a three- or four-paragraph treatment, tell the story you plan to film, making sure that the treatment conveys a visual picture.

b. Prepare a storyboard for your motion picture. (This can be done with rough sketches and stick figures.)

c. Demonstrate the following motion picture shooting techniques: 1. Using a tripod 2. Panning a camera 3. Framing a shot 4. Selecting an angle 5. Selecting proper lighting 6. Handheld shooting

d. Using motion picture shooting techniques, plan ONE of the following programs. Start with a treatment and complete the requirement by presenting this program to a pack or your troop, patrol, or class.

1. Film or videotape a court of honor and show it to an audience. 2. Create a short feature of your own design, using the techniques

you learned. 3. Shoot a vignette that could be used to train a new Scout in a

Scouting skill. 3. Do ONE of the following:

a. With your parent's permission and your counselor's approval, visit a film set or television production studio and watch how production work is done.

b. Explain to your counselor the elements of the zoom lens and three important parts.

c. Find out about three career opportunities in cinematography. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this career with your counselor. Explain why this profession might interest you.

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Engineering Merit Badge

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.

1. Select a manufactured item in your home (such as a toy or an appliance) and, under adult supervision and with the approval of your counselor, investigate how and why it works as it does. Find out what sort of engineering activities were needed to create it. Discuss with your counselor what you learned and how you got the information.

2. Select an engineering achievement that has had a major impact on society. Using resources such as the Internet (with your parent's permission), books, and magazines, find out about the engineers who made this engineering feat possible, the special obstacles they had to overcome, and how this achievement has influenced the world today. Tell your counselor what you learned.

3. Explain the work of six types of engineers. Pick two of the six and explain how their work is related.

4. Visit with an engineer (who may be your counselor or parent) and do the following:

a. Discuss the work this engineer does and the tools the engineer uses. b. Discuss with the engineer a current project and the engineer's

particular role in it. c. Find out how the engineer's work is done and how results are achieved. d. Ask to see the reports that the engineer writes concerning the project. e. Discuss with your counselor what you learned about engineering from

this visit. 5. Do ONE of the following:

a. Use the systems engineering approach to make step-by-step plans for your next campout. List alternative ideas for such items as program schedule, campsites, transportation, and costs. Tell why you made the choices you did and what improvements were made.

b. Make an original design for a piece of patrol equipment. Use the systems engineering approach to help you decide how it should work and look. Draw plans for it. Show the plans to your counselor, explain why you designed it the way you did, and explain how you would make it.

6. Do TWO of the following: a. Transforming motion. Using common materials or a construction set,

make a simple model that will demonstrate motion. Explain how the model uses basic mechanical elements like levers and inclined planes to demonstrate motion. Describe an example where this mechanism is used in a real product.

b. Using electricity. Make a list of 10 electrical appliances in your home. Find out approximately how much electricity each uses in one month.

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Learn how 93 to find out the amount and cost of electricity used in your home during periods of light and heavy use. List five ways to conserve electricity.

c. Understanding electronics. Using an electronic device such as a mobile telephone or portable digital media player, find out how sound travels from one location to another. Explain how the device was designed for ease of use, function, and durability.

d. Using materials. Do experiments to show the differences in strength and heat conductivity in wood, metal, and plastic. Discuss with your counselor what you have learned.

e. Converting energy. Do an experiment to show how mechanical, heat, chemical, solar, and/or electrical energy may be converted from one or more types of energy to another. Explain your results. Describe to your counselor what energy is and how energy is converted and used in your surroundings.

f. Moving people. Find out the different ways people in your community get to work. Make a study of traffic flow (number of vehicles and relative speed) in both heavy and light traffic periods. Discuss with your counselor what might be improved to make it easier for people in your community to get where they need to go.

g. Building an engineering project. Enter a project in a science or engineering fair or similar competition. (This requirement may be met by participation on an engineering competition project team.) Discuss with your counselor what your project demonstrates, the kinds of questions visitors to the fair asked you, and how well you were able to answer their questions.

7. Explain what it means to be a registered Professional Engineer (P.E.). Name the types of engineering work for which registration is most important.

8. Study the Engineer's Code of Ethics. Explain how it is like the Scout Oath and Scout Law.

9. Find out about three career opportunities in engineering. Pick one and research the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

Surveying Merit Badge

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.

1. Show that you know first aid for the types of injuries that could occur while surveying, including cuts, scratches, snakebite, insect stings, tick bites, heat and cold reactions, and dehydration. Explain to your counselor why a surveyor

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should be able to identify the poisonous plants and poisonous animals that are found in your area.

2. Find and mark the corners of a five-sided lot that has been laid out by your counselor to fit the land available. Set an instrument over each of the corners and record the angle turned between each line and the distance measured between each corner. With the assistance of the counselor, compute the error of closure from the recorded notes. The error of closure must not be more than 5 feet. From the corners, take compass readings or turn angles to trees, shrubs, and rocks, and measure to them. All measurements should be made using instruments, methods, and accuracies consistent with current technology.

3. From the field notes gathered for requirement 2, draw to scale a map of your survey. Submit a neatly drawn copy.

4. Write a metes and bounds description for the five-sided lot in requirement 2. 5. Use one of the corner markers from requirement 2 as a benchmark with an

assumed elevation of 100 feet. Using a level and rod, determine the elevation of the other four corner markers.

6. Get a copy of the deed to your property, or a piece of property assigned by your counselor, from the local courthouse or title agency.

7. Tell what GPS is; discuss with your counselor the importance of GPS and how it is changing the field of surveying.

8. Discuss the importance of surveying with a licensed surveyor. Also discuss the various types of surveying and mapping, and applications of surveying technology to other fields. Discuss career opportunities in surveying and related fields. Discuss the qualifications and preparation for such a career.

Railroading Merit Badge

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.

1. Do THREE of the following: a. Name three types of modern freight trains. Explain why unit trains are

more efficient than mixed freight trains. b. Name one class I or regional railroad. Explain what major cities it

serves, the locations of major terminals, service facilities and crew change points, and the major commodities it carries.

c. Using models or pictures, identify 10 types of railroad freight or passenger cars. Explain the purpose of each type of car.

d. Explain how a modern diesel or electric locomotive develops power. Explain the terms dynamic braking and radial steering trucks.

2. Do the following: a. Explain the purpose and formation of Amtrak. Explain, by the use of a

timetable, a plan for making a trip by rail between two cities at least 500 miles apart. List the times of departure and arrival at your

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destination, the train number and name, and the type of service you want.

b. List and explain the various forms of public/mass transit using rail as the fixed-guide path.

3. Do ONE of the following: a. Name four departments of a railroad company. Describe what each

department does. b. Tell about the opportunities in railroading that interest you most and

why. c. Name four rail support industries. Describe the function of each one. d. With your parent's and counselor's approval, interview someone

employed in the rail industry. Learn what that person does and how this person became interested in railroading. Find out what type of schooling and training are required for this position.

4. Explain the purpose of Operation Lifesaver and its mission. 5. Do THREE of the following:

a. List five safety precautions that help make trains safer for workers and passengers.

b. Explain to your merit badge counselor why railroad rights-of-way are important for safety.

c. List 10 safety tips to remember when you are near a railroad track (either on the ground or on a station platform) or aboard a train.

d. Tell your counselor about the guidelines for conduct that should be followed when you are near or on railroad property. Explain the dangers of trespassing on railroad property.

e. Tell what an automobile driver can do to safely operate a car at grade crossings, and list three things an automobile driver should never do at a grade crossing.

f. Tell how to report a malfunction of grade crossing warning devices. g. List safety precautions a pedestrian should follow at a public crossing.

6. Explain the appearance and meaning of the following warning signs and devices: advance warning sign, pavement markings, crossbucks, flashing red lights, crossing gates.

7. Do EACH of the following: a. Explain how railroad signals operate and show two basic signal types

using color or configuration. b. Explain the meaning of three whistle signals. c. Describe a way to signal a train for an emergency stop. d. Explain the use and function of the EOTD (end-of-train device) or FRED

(flashing rear end device) used on the last car of most trains. 8. Select ONE of the following special-interest areas and complete the

requirements. a. Model Railroading

With your parent's and counselor's approval, do TWO of the following: 1. Draw a layout of your own model railroad or one that could be

built in your home. Design a point-to-point track or loop with

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different routings. Include one of the following: turnaround or terminal or yard or siding.

2. Build one model railroad car kit or one locomotive kit. 3. Name the scale of four popular model railroad gauges. Identify

the scale of four model cars or locomotives. 4. Locate the Web site of four model railroad—related

manufacturers or magazine publishers. Print information on their products and services and discuss the information with your counselor.

5. Build one railroad structure (from scratch or using a kit), paint and weather the structure, mount it on your layout or diorama, and make the surrounding area on the diorama scenic.

6. Alone or with others, build a model railroad or modular layout including ballast and scenery. Make electrical connections and operate a train. Describe what you enjoyed most.

7. Participate in a switching contest on a timesaver layout and record your time.

b. Railfanning With your parent's and counselor's approval, do TWO of the following:

1. Visit a railroad museum, historical display, or a prototype railroadsponsored public event. With permission, photograph, videotape, or sketch items of interest. Explain what you saw and describe your photos, sketches, or videotape.

2. Purchase tickets and ride a scenic or historic railroad. Under supervision, photograph the equipment and discuss with your counselor the historic significance of the operation.

3. Locate the Web site of four rail historical groups, then find information on the history of the rail preservation operations and purpose of each group. Talk with a member of one of the groups and find out how you might help.

4. Plan a trip by rail between two points. Obtain a schedule and explain when the train should arrive at two intermediate points. Purchase the tickets and make the trip. Explain to your counselor what you saw.

Robotics Merit Badge

Earning the Robotics merit badge requires a Scout to understand how robots move (actuators), sense the environment (sensors), and understand what to do (programming); he should demonstrate robot design in building a robot. You should help ensure that the Scout has sufficiently explored the field of robotics to understand what it is about, and to discover whether this may be a field of interest for him as a career.

1. Safety. Do each of the following:

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a. Explain to your counselor the most likely hazards you may encounter while working with robots and what you should do to anticipate, mitigate and prevent, and respond to these hazards. Describe the appropriate safety gear and clothing that should be used when working with robotics.

b. Discuss first aid and prevention for the types of injuries that could occur while participating in robotics activities and competitions, including cuts, eye injuries, and burns (chemical or heat).

2. Robotics industry. Discuss the following with your counselor: a. The kinds of things robots can do and how robots are best used today. b. The similarities and differences between remote-control vehicles,

telerobots, and autonomous robots. c. Three different methods robots can use to move themselves other than

wheels or tracks. Describe when it would be appropriate to use each method.

3. General knowledge. Discuss with your counselor three of the five major fields of robotics (human-robot interface, mobility, manipulation, programming, sensors) and their importance to robotics development. Discuss either the three fields as they relate to a single robot system OR talk about each field in general. Find pictures or at least one video to aid your discussion.

4. Design, build, program, test. Do each of the following: a. With your counselor's approval, choose a task for the robot or robotic

subsystem that you plan to build. Include sensor feedback and programming in the task. Document this information in your robot engineering notebook.

b. Design your robot. The robot design should use sensors and programming and have at least 2 degrees of freedom. Document the design in your robot engineering notebook using drawings and a written description.

c. Build a robot or robotic subsystem of your original design to accomplish the task you chose for requirement 4a.

d. Discuss with your counselor the programming options available for your robot. Then do either option 1 OR option 2.

1. Option 1. Program your robot to perform the task you chose for your robot in 4a. Include a sample of your program's source code in your robot engineering notebook.

2. Option 2. Prepare a flowchart of the desired steps to program your robot for accomplishing the task in 4a. Include procedures that show activities based on sensor inputs. Place this in your robot engineering notebook.

e. Test your robot and record the results in your robot engineering notebook. Include suggestions on how you could improve your robot, as well as pictures or sketches of your finished robot.

5. Demonstrate. Do the following: a. Demonstrate for your counselor the robot you built in requirement 4.

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b. Share your robot engineering notebook with your counselor. Talk about how well your robot accomplished the task, the improvements you would make in your next design, and what you learned about the design process.

6. Competitions. Do ONE of the following. a. Attend a robotics competition and report to your counselor what you

saw and learned about the competition and how teams are organized and managed.

b. Learn about three youth robotics competitions. Tell your counselor about these, including the type of competition, time commitment, age of the participants, and how many teams are involved.

7. Careers. Name three career opportunities in robotics. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

Farm Mechanics Merit Badge

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.

1. Do the following: a. Discuss with your counselor the safety equipment, tools, and clothing

used while checking or repairing farm equipment. Use this equipment, tools, and/or clothing (when needed or called for) in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.

b. Draw a plan showing a well-equipped farm shop. Point out the shop's mandatory safety devices and features.

c. Find all the universal warning and safety symbols on a piece of equipment and explain what they mean.

d. Describe what a material safety data sheet (MSDS) is and tell why it is used. Obtain the MSDS for any engine coolant, oil, grease, fuel, hydraulic or transmission fluid, or other flammable or hazardous materials you use in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.

2. Explain how power is produced or transferred in a: a. Diesel engine b. Hydraulic system c. Transmission or any other power system

3. Do TWO of the following: a. Replace the handle of any tool found on the farm. b. Organize a tool rack or a storage system for nails, bolts, nuts, and

washers. c. Using a hand file, properly dress the mushroomed head of a chisel or

punch.

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d. Using a hand file, correctly dress a screwdriver tip. 4. Do ONE of the following:

a. On an engine-powered machine: Grease all fittings, change the oil and oil filter, clean the air filter, clean the radiator fins, and replace the fuel filters.

b. For any engine-powered machine, create a preoperational checklist; include checking the engine coolant, engine oil, hydraulic and/or transmission fluid, and battery voltage (using a voltmeter). Using your checklist, conduct a preoperational check of that machinery or equipment.

c. Prepare any farm machine for winter storage. 5. Visit an implement dealer. Interview the dealer technician or service manager

for hints on good preventive maintenance. Ask why it is important, the costs, and what causes wear or damage. Report what you learn.

6. Explain each step in ONE of the following maintenance procedures: a. Tightening hydraulic fittings b. Checking the air filter c. Cleaning a work piece with a wire-brush wheel

7. Find out about three career opportunities in farm mechanics. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

Crime Prevention Merit Badge

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.

1. Discuss the role and value of laws in society with regard to crime and crime prevention. Include in your discussion the definitions of “crime” and “crime prevention.”

2. Prepare a notebook of newspaper and other clippings that address crime and crime prevention efforts in your community.

3. Discuss the following with your counselor: a. The role of citizens, including youth, in crime prevention. b. Gangs and their impact on the community. c. When and how to report a crime.

4. After doing EACH of the following, discuss with your counselor what you have learned.

a. Inspect your neighborhood for opportunities that may lead to crime. Learn how to do a crime prevention survey.

b. Using the checklist in this pamphlet, conduct a security survey of your home and discuss the results with your family.

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5. Teach your family or patrol members how to protect themselves from crime at home, at school, in your community, and while traveling.

6. Help raise awareness about one school safety issue facing students by doing ONE of the following:

a. Create a poster for display on a school bulletin board. b. With permission from school officials, create a pagelong public service

announcement that could be read over the public address system at school or posted on the school's website.

c. Make a presentation to a group such as a Cub Scout den that addresses the issue.

7. Do ONE of the following: a. Assist in the planning and organization of a crime prevention program

in your community such as Neighborhood Watch, Community Watch, or Crime Stoppers. Explain how this program can benefit your neighborhood.

b. With your parent's and counselor's approval, visit a jail or detention facility or a criminal court hearing. Discuss your experience with your counselor.

8. Discuss the following with your counselor: a. How drug abuse awareness programs such as “Drugs: A Deadly Game”

help prevent crime. b. Why alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana are sometimes called “gateway

drugs” and how gateway drugs can lead to the use of other drugs. c. Three resources in your city where a person with a drug problem or

drugrelated problem can go for help. d. How the illegal sale and use of drugs lead to other crimes. e. How to recognize child abuse. f. The three R's of Youth Protection.

9. Discuss the following with your counselor: a. The role of a sheriff's or police department in crime prevention. b. The purpose and operation of agencies in your community that help

law enforcement personnel prevent crime, and how those agencies function during emergency situations.

c. Explain the role private security plays in crime prevention. d. Choose a career in the crime prevention or security industry that

interests you. Describe the level of education required and responsibilities of a person in that position. Tell why this position interests you.

Automotive Maintenance Merit Badge

Modern automobiles are important to many aspects of American life. Those who service automobiles must understand each principle, and how these principles interact to provide smooth, efficient performance. Owners of cars also benefit by

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understanding how their vehicles operate. This enables them to understand why certain periodic maintenance is required to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape.

Requirements

You will need access to a car or truck and its owner's manual to meet some of the requirements for this merit badge.

1. Do the following: a. Explain to your counselor the hazards you are most likely to encounter

during automotive maintenance activities, and what you should do to anticipate, help prevent, mitigate, or lessen these hazards.

b. Discuss with your counselor the safety equipment, tools, and clothing used while checking or repairing a motor vehicle. Use this equipment, tools, and/or clothing (when needed or called for) in meeting the requirements for this merit badge.

2. General Maintenance, Safety, and Registration. Do the following: a. Review the maintenance chart in the owner's manual. Explain the

requirements and time limits. b. Demonstrate how to check the following:

1. Brake fluid 2. Engine oil 3. Coolant 4. Power steering fluid 5. Windshield washer fluid 6. Transmission fluid 7. Battery fluid (if possible) and condition of the battery terminals

c. Locate the fuse boxes; determine the size of fuses. Demonstrate the proper replacement of burned-out fuses.

d. Demonstrate how to check the condition and tension of belts and hoses. e. Check the lighting in the vehicle, including instrument, warning, and

exterior bulbs. f. Locate and check the air filter. g. Explain the purpose, importance, and limitations of safety belts and

passive restraints. h. Find out the requirements for the state inspection in your state,

including how often a vehicle needs to be inspected. i. Explain the importance of registering a vehicle and find out the annual

registration fee for renewing your family car's registration. 3. Dashboard. Do the following:

a. Explain the function of the fuel gauge, speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, and engine temperature gauge. Point each one out on the instrument cluster.

b. Explain the symbols that light up on the dashboard and the difference between the yellow and red symbols. Explain each of the indicators on the dashboard, using the owner's manual if necessary.

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4. Tires. Do the following: a. Explain the difference between tire manufacturer's and vehicle

manufacturer's specifications and show where to find them. b. Demonstrate how to check tire pressure and properly inflate a tire.

Check the spare tire and make sure it is ready for use. c. Explain why wheel alignment is important to the life of a tire. Explain

caster, camber, and toe-in adjustments on wheel alignment. d. Explain the purpose of the lateral-wear bar indicator. e. Explain how to dispose of old tires in accordance with local laws and

regulations. 5. Engine. Do the following:

a. Explain how an internal combustion engine operates. Tell the differences between gasoline and diesel engines. Explain how a gasoline-electric hybrid vehicle is powered.

b. Discuss the purpose of engine oil. Explain the API service code, the SAE number, and the viscosity rating.

c. Explain where to find the recommended oil type and the amount of oil to be used in the vehicle engine.

6. Cooling System. Do the following: a. Explain the need for coolant in the cooling system. b. Explain how to flush and change the engine coolant in the vehicle, and

how to properly dispose of the used coolant. 7. Fuel System. Do the following:

a. Explain how the air and fuel systems work together and why it is necessary to have an air filter and fuel filter.

b. Explain how a fuel injection system works and how an onboard computer works with the fuel injection system.

8. Ignition and Electrical Systems. Do the following: a. Diagram and explain the parts of the electrical system. b. Explain the cylinder engine sequence. c. Explain the purpose of the spark gap. d. Demonstrate how to safely connect jumper cables to your car battery.

9. Drive Train. Do the following: a. Diagram the drive train and explain the different parts. b. Explain the difference between automatic and standard transmissions. c. Explain the types of automatic transmission fluid. d. Explain the types of lubricants used in a standard transmission and in

the differential. e. Explain the difference between front-wheel, rear-wheel, and four-wheel

drive. 10. Brake System. Do the following:

a. Explain the brake system (including antilock systems) and how it operates.

b. Explain the differences between disc and drum systems. c. Demonstrate how to check the condition of a vehicle's brake system.

After checking, make recommendations for repairs (if necessary).

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11. Do TWO of the following: a. Determine the value of three different vehicles you are interested in

purchasing. One must be new and one must be used; the third vehicle can be new or used. For each vehicle, find out the requirements and cost of automobile insurance to include basic liability and options for collision, comprehensive, towing, and rental car. Using the three vehicles you chose and with your merit badge counselor's assistance, complete the operation/maintenance chart provided in the merit badge pamphlet. Use this information to determine the operating cost per mile for each vehicle, and discuss what you learn with your counselor.

b. Choose a car cleaner and wax product for a vehicle you want to clean. Explain clear-coat paint and the precautions necessary for care. Clean the vehicle, both inside and out, and wax the exterior. Use a vinyl and rubber protectant (on vinyl tops, rubber door seals, sidewalls, etc.) and explain the importance of this protectant.

c. Locate the manufacturer's jack. Use the jack to demonstrate how to engage the jack correctly on the vehicle, then change a tire correctly.

d. Perform an oil filter and oil change on a vehicle. Explain how to properly dispose of the used oil and filter.

12. Find out about three career opportunities in the automotive industry. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.

Plumbing Merit Badge

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.

1. Do the following: a. Describe how a properly working plumbing system protects your

family's health and safety. b. List five important local health regulations related to plumbing and tell

how they protect health and safety. c. Describe the safety precautions you must take when making home

plumbing repairs. 2. Do the following:

a. Make a drawing and explain how a home hot- and cold-water supply system works. Tell how you would make it safe from freezing.

b. Make a drawing and explain the drainage system of the plumbing in a house. Show and explain the use of drains and vents.

3. Show how to use five important plumber's tools.

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4. Identify and describe the use of each of the following: washer, retaining nut, plunger (rubber force cup), solder, flux, elbow, tee, nipple, coupling, plug, union, trap, drainpipe, and water meter.

5. Name the kinds of pipe that are used most often in a plumbing system. Explain why these pipes are used.

6. Cut, thread, and connect two pieces of steel pipe. 7. Under the supervision of a knowledgeable adult, solder three copper tube

connections using a gas torch. Include one tee, two straight pieces, and one coupling.

8. Do the following: a. Replace a washer in a faucet. b. Clean out a sink or lavatory trap.