Scout Rank Advancement
Online Scout Rank Resources – Scout Rank
All requirements for the Scout rank must be completed as a member of a troop, or as a Lone Scout. If the scout has already completed these requirements as part of the Webelos Scouting Adventure, the scout needs to demonstrate knowledge or skills to the Scoutmaster or other designated leader after joining the troop.
1a. Repeat from memory the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan. In your own words, explain their meaning.
The Scout Oath (click here for a YouTube video to help learn the Oath)
The Scout motto is “Be Prepared.”
The Scout slogan is “Do a Good Turn Daily.”
Scout Rank Requirement – Nate Large – Eagles Call
1b. Explain what Scout spirit is. Describe some ways you have shown Scout spirit by practicing the Scout Oath, Scout Law, Scout motto, and Scout slogan.
Scout Rank Requirement – Nate Large – Eagles Call
1c. Demonstrate the Scout sign, salute, and handshake. Explain when they should be used.
Scout sign, salute, and handshake explanation video from the Eagle Scout Academy
Written explanation (PDF) from Troop 139 page about the Scout sign, salute, and handshake
1d. Describe the First Class Scout badge and tell what each part stands for. Explain the significance of the First Class Scout badge.
Written explanation (PDF) from Troop 139 page about the First Class badge
Scout Rank Requirement – Nate Large – Eagles Call
1e. Repeat from memory the Outdoor Code. List the seven principles of Leave No Trace. Explain the difference between the two.
Scout Rank Requirement – Nate Large – Eagles Call
1f. Repeat from memory the Pledge of Allegiance. In your own words, explain its meaning.
2. After attending at least one Scout troop meeting, do the following:
2a. Describe how the Scouts in the troop provide its leadership.
2b. Describe the four steps of Scout advancement.
The four steps to Scout advancement from Mount Baker Council (webpage)
Video explanation of the four steps to advancement from Scouter Rob
2c. Describe the Scouts BSA ranks and how they are earned.
2d. Describe what merit badges are and how they are earned.
3a. Explain the patrol method. Describe the types of patrols that are used in your troop.
3b. Become familiar with your patrol name, emblem, flag, and yell. Explain how these items create patrol spirit.
4a. Show how to tie a square knot, two half-hitches, and a taut-line hitch. Explain how each knot is used.
4b. Show the proper care of a rope by learning how to whip and fuse the ends of different kinds of rope.
5. Tell what you need to know about using a pocketknife safely and responsibly.
6. With your parent or guardian, complete the exercises in the pamphlet How to Protect Your Children From Child Abuse: A Parent's Guide and earn the Cyber Chip Award for your grade or view the Personal Safety Awareness videos (with your parent or Guardian's permission)
7. Since joining the troop and while working on Scout rank, participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
Notes: The requirements for Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, and First Class ranks may be worked on simultaneously; however, these ranks must be earned in sequence.
Alternate requirements for Scout Rank are available for Scouts with physical or mental disabilities if they meet the criteria listed in Alternate Requirements for Ranks.