Observation Scoutcraft Badge

“ If you make listening and observation your occupation you will gain much more than you can by talk. ” — Robert Baden-Powell

A badge to challenge you senses and teach you the great bushman art of observation and tracking. This badge is a prerequisite for the Veldcraft Interest Badge.

Badge Requirements

Observation

1. Play Kim's Game and after one minute of observation remember correctly 24 out of 30 well-assorted articles. The test is to be repeated twice running with different articles and each article is to be adequately described.
2. Blindfolded, correctly identify 8 out of 10 simple sounds by hearing only.
3. Blindfolded, identify 8 out of 10 common substances by smell only.
4. Blindfolded, identify 12 out of 15 common articles by touch only.
5. Explain the characteristics of human footprints, with and without boots or shoes. Be able to identify correctly the following tracks made by a person in sand or soft earth: walking; walking backwards; limping; carrying a weight; running.
6. Correctly identify the following cloud formations (from pictures where natural examples are not available), and explain the weather associated with each:
   1. Cumulus.
   2. Cumulo-nimbus.
   3. Cirrus.
   4. Nimbo-stratus.
   5. Strato-cumulus.
   6. Alto stratus.
7. Make three plaster casts of the tracks of wild animals or birds or make 5 sketches of different animal or bird tracks that you have observed out-of-doors. Identify the tracks.
8. Complete ONE of the following:
   1. Correctly identify 10 different makes or models of cars on the road
      OR
   2. Correctly identify 10 different types of trees
      OR
   3. Correctly identify 10 different types of leaves
      OR
   4. Correctly identify 10 different types of insects.
      OR
   5. Correctly identify 10 different types of birds in the outdoors.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format

• Observation (PDF)

Safe From Harm

Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances.

All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults.

Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Explore More

• My Scout Journey - An overview of your path in Scouting - from joining to earning top awards like the Springbok Award.
• Scout Advancement Programme - The core steps Scouts follow to build skills and earn theme badges and advancement badges.
• Scoutcraft Badges - Aimed at Scouts 11 to 13. Fun, hands-on badges that build confidence, essential skills, and lay the foundation for Interest Badges.
• Scout Interest Badges - Aimed at Scouts 13 and older. Badges that promote personal growth through exploring interests, hobbies, and skills.
• Veldcraft