Tenderfoot Board of Review Questions: A Comprehensive Guide for Scouts
Becoming a Tenderfoot Scout is an exciting milestone! It marks your official entry into the world of Scouting, and the Board of Review is the final step. This guide covers common Tenderfoot Board of Review questions, offering insights and advice to help you prepare and confidently answer them. Remember, the goal isn't just to recite facts, but to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for Scouting.
What is the Scout Oath and Law? What do they mean to you?
This is almost certainly the first question you'll be asked. Don't just memorize the words; understand their meaning. For the Oath, explain how you strive to live by each point in your daily life. For the Law, discuss how each point guides your actions and choices as a Scout. Consider giving specific examples of how you've demonstrated these principles. For example, "Trustworthy" might involve being honest with a friend, while "Reverent" could include appreciating nature during a hike.
What are the Scout Skills you have learned and how have you practiced them?
This question assesses your practical application of Scouting skills. List the skills you've learned, such as tying knots (square knot, bowline, clove hitch), first aid basics (cleaning a wound, treating a minor burn), compass and map reading, and leave no trace principles. Be ready to demonstrate some basic knots if requested, and provide specific examples of how you've practiced each skill. Did you help someone with first aid? Did you lead a hike using your compass and map? The more concrete your examples, the better.
Describe your participation in Scout activities.
This question explores your active engagement in Scouting. Highlight your contributions to troop meetings, outings, and community service projects. Did you help set up for a campout? Did you participate in a service project cleaning a park? Were you involved in a fundraising activity? Quantify your involvement whenever possible. Instead of saying "I helped," try "I led a team of four scouts in..." or "I volunteered for six hours at..."
Explain the Scout motto, slogan, and emblem.
The motto ("Be Prepared"), slogan ("Do a good turn daily"), and emblem (the fleur-de-lis) are foundational to Scouting. Explain what each represents and how they influence your actions. "Be Prepared" suggests readiness for any situation; "Do a good turn daily" emphasizes kindness and service; the fleur-de-lis symbolizes the Scout's pursuit of knowledge, service, and adventure.
What are the requirements for the Tenderfoot rank, and which ones were the most challenging for you? Why?
This shows you understand the rank requirements. Briefly list the requirements, and then focus on one or two that you found particularly challenging. Explain why they were difficult and what you did to overcome those challenges. This demonstrates perseverance and a willingness to learn.
What are your goals as a Scout? What do you hope to achieve?
Show ambition and enthusiasm for your Scouting journey. Your goals might include progressing through the ranks, developing leadership skills, participating in specific activities (like backpacking or high adventure), or contributing to your community. Be specific and make your goals measurable. For example, instead of "I want to be a better leader," say "I want to earn the leadership merit badge by leading a troop activity."
What is the Scout Law, and how do you apply it in your daily life?
This question, similar to the Oath and Law question, tests your grasp of the core principles of Scouting. Provide specific examples of how you embody the Scout Law in your actions, both within the troop and outside of it. For instance, you might describe how being "helpful" means assisting family members with chores or helping a classmate with their studies.
How will you continue to grow as a Scout?
Demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement and your understanding of the ongoing nature of Scouting. Explain how you plan to attend meetings regularly, actively participate in activities, seek out new challenges, and strive to earn more ranks and merit badges.
What have you learned from Scouting so far?
Reflect on your experiences and identify valuable lessons learned. This might include teamwork, leadership, problem-solving skills, outdoor skills, or personal growth. Describe specific instances that illustrate what you’ve learned.
Preparing for your Tenderfoot Board of Review is about demonstrating your understanding of Scouting principles and your commitment to the values it represents. By thoughtfully preparing for these common questions, you'll be well-equipped to confidently present yourself and successfully earn your Tenderfoot rank. Good luck!
