Space Exploration Class Preparation
Read and review ALL requirements prior to the class.
Even though a requirement may be identified as one to be done in class, Scouts are still expected to familiarize, review, and prepare for the requirement – BE PREPARED!
Active interaction/participation is expected and mandatory.
Share in your own words – avoid reading your answers.
Pay attention to the action verbs in the requirements.
Bring proof of completion, even partially completed work.
Requirement Insights
| Requirements | Expectations |
|---|---|
| 1, 8 | Scouts will be able to successfully complete these requirements during the class when they have prepared ahead of time. Time will be allotted for those Scouts who have prepared to share their work for sign off consideration. |
| 2 | Scouts must work on this requirement ahead of time and bring their "collector card" with them to class to share with the class to be reviewed by the counselor.. The counselor will facilitate discussion about the variety of space pioneers. |
| 3 | Scouts may choose to procure their own rocket however the class is structured to include a small rocket kit for assembly during the class. The counselor will aid in helping to launch the rockets as a part of the class whether they are made ahead of time or during the class. A good portion of time in the class is dedicated to this requirement. Scouts should be prepared and able to identify the rocket parts as described in the requirement. It must be noted that the counselor will go over safety rules for the launching of rockets. Scouts not adhering to the rules and guidelines set forth in the class will be asked to return to the classroom and will NOT be signed off on this requirement. Safety is the first concern and Scouts need to understand that their attentiveness and behavior during this part of the merit badge class is to be of the highest regard; no exceptions. Remember the Scout Law. |
| 4 | Scouts should utilize the Space Exploration Merit Badge pamphlet and/or other sources to review and prepare for discussion during the class. Active participation during the discussion is mandatory for sign off on this requirement. |
| 5 | This requirement will be difficult for Scouts to complete if they have not done some pre-class preparation work. While unprepared Scouts will gain much information through the counselor and other Scouts that have prepared, it will be unlikely they can complete this requirement without any pre-work. The counselor will cover all three components of this requirement and utilize the participants research and information to help facilitate discussion on each of these. Scouts should choose two of the three components for this requirement and be prepared to share and discuss their work during the class. |
| 6 | The counselor will help facilitate discussion for this requirement and its components however at the discretion of the counselor, only Scouts who actively and knowledgably participate in the class discussion and activity will be signed off on this requirement and its components. Scouts can strengthen their opportunity for sign off by coming to the class prepared with having read the merit badge pamphlet or other sources and understanding and being prepared to participate in the class discussion on these items. |
| 7 | Scouts are encouraged to work on this requirement ahead of time and bring their work with them to class to share. The counselor will facilitate discussion on this requirement and its components and allow any prepared Scouts to share their work with the class. |
Things to Remember to Bring
- Your BSA ID# and / or your Merit Badge Blue Card properly filled out and signed off by your Scout Leader.
- Notes and questions from reading the Space Exploration Merit Badge Pamphlet.
- Wear your Scout Uniform.
Bring appropriate outdoor weather clothing for the forecasted weather conditions (some/all components of the class will take place outdoors).
- Your Space Collector Card
- Supporting documentation or project work pertinent to this merit badge, which may also include a Merit Badge Workbook for reference with notes.
- A positive Scouting focus and attitude.
