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Cadette and Senior Interest Patches

Cadette and Senior Girl Scouts earn interest patches. Interest Patches are divided into 5 areas listed below.


   <>  Life Skills
   <>  Nature, Science, and Health
   <>  The Arts and History
   <>  Communications
   <>  Sports and Recreation

Additionally, the NorCal Council's Santa Clara Area has several exclusive patch projects and adventures ranging from Aviation to Robotics to Women World Wide.  

Council is also the source for information about Silver and Gold awards

Alphabetical listing of Interest Patches on this site:

Life Skills

The following Interest Patches are all in the area of Life Skills.

  • Car Sense
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Check the engine oil, transmission & brake & power steering fluid."
      2. Change oil and oil filter.
      3. Check tire pressure. Watch tire being changed by professional. Change a tire.
      4. Procedures for obtaining learner's permit.
      5. "Visit car dealership - evaluate costs, options & avail. of 2 different cars."
      6. Assemble a vehical emergency toolkit.
      7. Contact different insurance companies. Learn about legal liabilities of uninsured or underinsured drivers.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Learn how ABS brakes work. Learn about braking in emergency situations.
      2. How do cars affect the environment? How is your car for energy use?
      3. Locate air bags in a car. Discover strengths & limitations of air bags.
      4. Describe how cars are computerized. What are advantages & disadvantages of using computers in cars?
      5. "Learn about purchasing a car by browsing the internet. Compare cost, safety, resale, size, & options."
      6. "Compute the cost of running a car for a year. Include gas, insurance, registration, parking, taxes & maintenance."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer at a vehicle safety event emphasizing safety through preventative maintenance.
      2. Create a car safety campaign. Display it in 2 prominent areas of your town.
      3. Run a discussion group with other teens about driving under the influence.
      4. "Volunteer with a car-based community service: meals on wheels, grocery delivery, take library books to homebound people."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Interview a mechanic, service manager or assembler."
      2. "Prepare a cartoon with the theme ""Teaching novices to drive""."
      3. Interview a highway patrol officer or traffic officer.
      4. Tour an auto design or assembly plant.
  • Child Care
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Learn about either the physical, emotional, intellectual or social growth that takes place during a developmental stage."
      2. Learn how to care for children in an emergency situation.
      3. "Become familiar with local, state & federal laws that protect children."
      4. What were you like as a baby? Talk to people who knew you at different stages. Make a story with the info. you gather.
      5. "Keep a file of games, songs, finger plays & stories children like. Add ideas."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Learn about software & video games for children. Evaluate some.
      2. What is the educational value of some toys & games? Observe a child playing some.
      3. Compare 2 types of toys of today with one from 20 or more years ago.
      4. Design your own game or toy for a specific age group.
      5. Create TV viewing guidelines for your family or one with small children.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer to organize a child-care event or program.
      2. Determine a service you can provide for a local day-care or after-school facility.
      3. Tutor a student after school. Log the skills you emphasize.
      4. "Create a ""baby-sitter's club"". Advertise your club."
      5. Locate local playgrounds & other rec. facilities in your area. What equipment do they provide?
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. What colleges in your area offer courses for day-care providers.
      2. Learn the special needs of caring for a child with a disability.
      3. Invite 4 professionals who work with children to speak at a troop or group meeting.
      4. "Interview a Mom who works outside the home full-time, part-time & one who does not work out of the home."
  • Conflict Resolution
      • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Identify 5 techniques for resolving conflicts. Give examples of how 3 of these are used in the ""real world""."
      2. "Keep a journal for 2 weeks, record your conflicts with other people."
      3. "With 4-6 people, carry out some active listening exercises. Take turns as group facilitators, recorders & observers."
      4. Respecting others values improves relationships & communication.
      5. Attend or watch several different sports events. Note the athletes' behavior.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. How does the use of instant replays facilitate resolution of disputes?
      2. Watch or play several video or computer games. Which ones seem too violent?
      3. "What messages do TV shows, music videos & print & broadcast ads give about resolving conflict?"
      4. Watch the evening news or read a newspaper for 3 days in a row. How do opinions alter our perceptions of conflict?
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Use a mock court to mediate or resolve a dispute.
      2. Learn to officiate your favorite sport. Serve as an official in an event in your community.
      3. Introduce younger children to the concept of conflict resolution.
      4. Learn about peer mediation strategies & then set up a program in your school or community.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. List professionals whose jobs require skills in conflict resolution.
      2. Interview a professional mediator in your community.
      3. "Obtain information about the role that United Nations delegates, ambassadors & diplomats play in solving international conflicts."
      4. Interview people in 3 different jobs to see how they resolve conflicts at work.
  • Cookies and Dough
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Write a 30-60 sec. TV or radio commercial for this year's cookie varieties.
      2. Research expenses involved in an activity your troop would like to do.
      3. Design a poster or flier for your cookie campaign that you can post locally.
      4. Brainstorm 10 new locations in your community for selling cookies.
      5. Research the history of GS cookie production & sales.
      6. Do a market survey of your community to determine the ages & occupations of those who buy certain cookies.
      7. Role-play different scenarios that might occur during cookie sales.
      8. Create a press kit to send to media outlets & places where cookies are sold.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Surf the Internet for marketing ideas for food products.
      2. Survey at least 10 people for their favorite cookies & their reasons.
      3. Study the design of a Girl Scout cookie box.
      4. "Prepare a spreadsheet that will help you track your troop, group or council's cookie sales."
      5. "Start a ""cookies coast to coast"" newsletter on the Internet."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Develop a cookie board game for Brownies that teaches them skills like counting, matching & following rules."
      2. Have a cookie-tasting party at a senior citizens' facility.
      3. Swap sales techniques with another troop or group.
      4. Recycle cookie boxes into an art project you have designed.
      5. Send thank-you notes to major supporters or helpers of your cookie campaign.
      6. Create a poster for a younger troop promoting the benefits of a healthy beverage to go with their cookie snack.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Examine different careers in the food industry.
      2. Start your own business selling a product or service you think will appeal to a specific group.
      3. "Get writing tips from a local reporter, freelance writer or teacher & write a story about your cookie campaign for a council newsletter."
      4. Arrance a factory tour for a food product & see what is involved in making & packaging of that item.
  • Dollars and Sense
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Prepare a troop budget with a balance sheet showing income & expenses.
      2. Make a long-term financial plan for a goal that will require considerable financial reserves.
      3. "Select a product, & over 2 months, chart how the price changes in the same store."
      4. "Select a country & investigate: the exchange rate, customs concerning bargaining practices & the cost of an item in that countries currency & the US equivalent."
      5. Play a stock market game with your troop or others.
      6. "Track your families cost of meals, transportation, clothing costs & other costs for 2 weeks."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Learn about 2 different software packages that create & analyze budgets.
      2. Find out how an ATM is operated & maintained.
      3. "Compare advantages & disadvantages of letters of credit, debit cards, travelers checks, cash & other methods of accessing money while away from home."
      4. "Learn about the finances behind credit cards. Compare ""purchase"" interest rates with the ""cash advance"" interest rates."
      5. How have computers altered trading on the stock exchanges?
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer to be a treasurer for an event or activity that is planned by your troop.
      2. Conduct a money management presentation for another GS troop.
      3. Arrange a drive for goods for disadvantages individuals.
      4. "Set up a tax fair, in which volunteer accountants or other experts explain how to complete forms."
      5. Help a younger troop develop & implement a money-earning plan.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Contact an organization with questions about careers in that field.
      2. Review the resume of an individual who works in a finance-related career.
      3. List a variety of part-time or summer jobs available to you.
      4. Learn about the responsbilities of operating your own business.
      5. Talk to 3 people who have very different jobs & find out how they use money management skills at work.
  • Family Living
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Read magazines, newspapers, or books on family life topics for one month. Keep a journal."
      2. What does it cost your family to operate the household for one month?
      3. Invite a financial planner or consultant to a troop meeting to discuss the services financial planners provide.
      4. Arrange a family meeting or discuss 2-3 issues your family has experienced some conflict over.
      5. Prepare your family chronology.
      6. "Create a ""family time"" activity."
      7. Plan a family reunion.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Find out how technology has changed family life through the years.
      2. Gather information about computer software that could be used for household management & for fun.
      3. "Develop a family media & technology center & storage area for labeled VCR tapes, & CD's."
      4. Use a computer search to find information about family life in 2 cultures other than your own.
      5. Design a family T-shirt for a family reunion or gathering.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Compile a community directory of medical, legal, educational, financial & recreational services for families."
      2. "Prepare & deliver a holiday basket for a homebound, elderly or ill person."
      3. Find out how to help families in need in your community.
      4. Set up 2-3 meetings with other families with whom you share a common interest.
      5. Plan a special family meal.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Identify 5 careers involving family living.
      2. Interview 3 parents in diverse situations & with children of varying ages.
      3. Take on an area at home that you will personally be responsible for.
      4. Invite representatives from agencies that provide services for families to a meeting.
  • From Fitness to Fashion
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Do aerobic exercises at least 3 times a week for at least 6 weeks.
      2. Learn how to take care of your skin.
      3. Change your hairstyle.
      4. Learn how to build a wardrobe.
      5. Develop a project on fashions in history.
      6. Try making your own cosmetics.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Discover how cosmetics are made.
      2. Learn about natural & synthetic fabrics.
      3. Find out what software is used by the fashion industries.
      4. Design a fashion or accessory item.
      5. Collect several different fashion magazines or different issues of the same magazine to review.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Make a directory including names & addresses of several stores & the bargains available.
      2. "Direct a ""toiletries"" drive in your council to help women in need."
      3. Host a fashion show for teens as a troop money-earning project.
      4. Host a From Fitness to Fashion Fair at a senior citizens' center or for younter scouts.
      5. Find out about unfair labor practices that exploit garment workers in this & other countries.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Study the masthead in your favorite fashion magazine. List careers represented there.
      2. Discover which schools are noted for fashion programs.
      3. "Interview 2: A department store buyer, A fashion consultant, Tailor, Cusmetics Rep., or Hairstylist."
      4. Explore a career or a vocation as a fashion consultant. Offer to personalize 2 friends wardrobes with accessories.
  • From Stress to Success
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Find out how the human body responds to stress.
      2. "Sit in a quiet, comfortable place. Do relaxing exercises for 10-15 minutes."
      3. Create a reasonable schedule for yourself for one week.
      4. Learn several massage strokes that help in relaxation.
      5. Brainstorm 5 ways to cope with a stress you cannot readily see a solution for.
      6. Participate in a stress relieving activity 3 times a week for 1 month.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Find out how biofeedback works.
      2. Discuss the advantages & disadvantages of technology in today's society.
      3. Listen to a variety of types of music & find pieces that evoke different emotions in you.
      4. Learn to monitor your body & relax tight muscles.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Help plan a workshop on stress among teenages for your troop.
      2. Volunteer as a peer counselor or tutor for a semester at school.
      3. Contact local organizations to identify stress management programs & resources for youth.
      4. Set up a time with family members to practice relaxation or stress management techniques together.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Read about or interview 2 professionals: biofeedback, sports trainer, relaxation therapist, etc."
      2. "In the past 10 years, how has the medical field incorporated stress management in the prevention & treatment of illness & disease?"
      3. Speak to 3 teachers about how they think stress affects student performance & tips for dealing with it.
      4. "Find out how psychologists, psychiatrists & clinical social workers are educated & trained."
  • Generations Hand in Hand
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Investigate your heritage.
      2. Interview 5 people who lived in your community over the past 25-50 years.
      3. Complete a project with members or residents of a senior center or home.
      4. "With a group of senior citizens, complete a civic project such as voter registration."
      5. Invite retirees from a variety of fields to lend their expertise to a project you are planning.
      6. "From your high school, get the names of graduates from the 1930's, 40's or 50's & help them organize a reunion."
      7. "Invite a senior citizen on an outing: baseball game, movie, play or zoo."
      8. Find out about the elderly in different societies and cultures.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Find out what the expected life span of someone your age is.
      2. Interview older people to learn about technological advances they've observed over the years.
      3. Talk with someone who has benefited from a medical procedure not available 50 years ago.
      4. "Teach an introductory lesson on the use of computers, CD Rom's, fax machines & voice mail to an older person."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Develop a service project that will help an elderly person.
      2. Recruit volunteers to participate in a food-shopping program for the elderly.
      3. Work with a senior citizen to provide assistance to children in need.
      4. Compile a list of community organizations & services for the elderly.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Hold a career-day workshop with retired professionals.
      2. Talk to a retired person about her volunteer work.
      3. Learn about the field of geriatrics.
      4. Find out about career opportunities in field offering goods & services to retired people.
  • Home Improvement
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Create your own room accessory such as needlepoint, a pillow, window treatment, etc."
      2. "Brighten up a room, wall or trip around doors, floors & ceiling with paint."
      3. Create a family gallery. Arrange them into an attractive display.
      4. "Redo a piece of furniture by: Stripping & refinishing, Faux finishes, or Cleaning & painting."
      5. Learn how to connect a VCR to a TV & then teach someone else.
      6. Learn to unclog a toilet. Use your newly acquired skills at home.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Find out about 2 natural fibers & 2 chemically created fibers.
      2. Educate yourself about home hazards.
      3. Find out about technologies used in homes to increase the independence of people with disabilities.
      4. Put together a tool kit for basic home repair.
      5. Learn about 3 safety features found in houses or apartments today.
      6. Investigate home water filter systems - those installed under sinks as well as container-based systems.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "With your group, plan a ""spruce-up"" party for a nursing home, children's center or another place."
      2. Volunteer for a weekend construction program. Follow all safety guidelines.
      3. "Make & donate a ""design box"" for younger girls in your council."
      4. Organize a home safety work-shop for parents & guardians of infants & young children.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "What training is required in your state to be a licensed carpenter, plumber or electrician."
      2. "Volunteer as an apprentice painter, carpenter or decorator."
      3. Shadow an interior decorator.
      4. "Design a ""dream"" room or house to scale."
      5. "Get a part-time job at a local hardware, fabric, or home-decorating store."
  • Law and Order
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Observe at least 2: a town/city council meeteing, a live or televised trial, or a special court session. Record & present your observations."
      2. Interview a law enforcement official.
      3. Learn about defamation law as it relates to the media.
      4. Read a newspaper for several weeks to track crime in your community.
      5. Investigate laws & lawsuits that affect students.
      6. Should parents be held responsible for crimes committed by their children?
      7. "Learn the commen terms used in parliamentary procedure by reading ""Parliamentary Procedures"" in A Resource Book for Senior Girl Scouts."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Host a video slumber party with the theme of ""crime & justice""."
      2. What role do computers play in law enforcement? Is it easier to track criminals?
      3. What are polygraph tests? How are they used? How do they work?
      4. "In your group, have a discussion on ""privacy matters"". Invite a lawyer or police officer to attend."
      5. "Learn about scientific methods: DNA testing, fingerprinting & hair analysis, used in criminal investigations."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Invite a police officer, judge or attorney in to explain the law to teens & to answer questions."
      2. Help with a voter registration drive for the next election in your community.
      3. "Write a letter to an elected official or newspaper editor expressing your opinion on any ""hot"" issue."
      4. "Organize a ""Safe Rides"" club that offers rides to teens who feel they can't drive safety or are unwilling to get into a car with a driver who is impaired by drugs or alcohol."
      5. "Write a play, skit or story, or produce a video dramatizing what happens to a juvenile who breaks the law."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Research careers in law enforcement. Interview 2 people in a field that interests you.
      2. Make a list of related law-and-order careers.
      3. Participate in an internship or service program that deals with a law-related or political career. Keep a journal.
      4. Hold a mock trial on an issue that affects teens.
      5. Read a book about or by someone involved in politics.
  • Leadership
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Observe leadership in action: visit meetings of at least 2 different groups, such as a city council or a group of volunteers developing plans for an event."
      2. "In a group meeting, observe how people interact. Who talks and why?"
      3. What leadership skills do you bring to a group? What do you need to add to your repertoire?
      4. Read about leadership styles and figure out your dominant style.
      5. "Name and discuss 2-3 examples of ""negative leadership"" such as political leaders who used their power in harmful or illegal ways."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Have someone videotape you speaking in front of a group.
      2. Watch a variety of TV shows & read newspapers to see how leaders are represented in the media.
      3. "Talk to 2-3 educators, business people, consultants or other leaders about how changing technologies affect leadership."
      4. Help organize an online forum to discuss an issue affecting older girls. Establish rules & make everyone feel welcome.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer to help coordinate your school elections or participate in a planning committee for a school event.
      2. "Help organize an ongoing service project, such as a community literacy program highlighted by a yearly book fair."
      3. "Identify a need in your community like recycling, building school spirit or presenting child abuse."
      4. "Organize a youth meeting through your school, religious community or Girl Scouts to identify projects that can improve your community as a whole."
      5. Lead a group of younger girls by volunteering to be a coach for a sports team in your neighborhood.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Compile a multimedia leadership resource list.
      2. List the careers that you are interested in & identify leadership skills needed to succeed in those fields.
      3. Create a resume that highlights your leadership experience & the skills & qualities you possess.
      4. Start a club or after-school activity. Enlist the aid of teachers or advisers.
      5. Get involved in the election process. Arrange a candidate forum or voter registration drive.
  • Travel
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Sample 2 modes of travel that are unfamiliar to you or you want to learn more about.
      2. "Plan & take a day or weekend trip to any U.S. city. Use resources to research transportation options, accommodations, restaurants, etc."
      3. "Which country, state or city captures your fancy? Learn more about it."
      4. Create a master luggage list so you can pack effectively.
      5. Find out how to say hello & good-bye in 10 different languages.
      6. "With your group, produce a simulated talk radio show on a particular travel subject, like the solo traveler, winter getaways, the student traveler."
      7. Read about Girl Scout wider opportunities. What is going on this year?
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Make a list of software focusing on geography or travel.
      2. "Collaborate with your local cable company, historical society, museum, library or chamber to make a video or brochure describing your community."
      3. Find an online computer bulletin board for travelers and/or travel writers & chat with them.
      4. "Learn to read 2 of the following: a topographical map, nautical chart, subway guide, street map, road map or CD-ROM map."
      5. Find out about recent technological advances in airport security.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "With a community group that helps people with disabilities, volunteer to assist a person with special needs take a short day trip."
      2. Enjoy a travel adventure with someone who finds it difficult to travel on her own.
      3. Volunteer for 5 hours with a group that works to help people who have recently arrived in your community.
      4. Plan a neighborhood walk or tour for a younger Girl Scout troop.
      5. Bring a faraway place to those who cannot travel long distances.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Explore careers in the travel industry by organizing a travel fair.
      2. Invite a travel writer or photographer to speak to your group.
      3. "Find out about careers in 2 other countries, including educational requirements, working conditions & salaries."
      4. Write a piece about a recent interesting trip you've taken or about a fantasy vacation. Send your article to a travel magazine.
      5. List jobs in travel & tourism. What skills would you need. Present your findings.
  • Understanding Yourself and Others
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Observe body language & listen to what people say. Share your observations.
      2. Set a personal goal that you can reasonably accomplish in 1 month.
      3. Observe what happens when you break a norm. Do an activity listed in your book.
      4. Write your autobiography. Interview your relatives for help.
      5. "With your group, role-play 2 of the situations listed in your book."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Create a video or presentation focusing on building self-esteem or awareness about a particular issue.
      2. Create a plan to introduce older people to a computer system or other technology.
      3. Change the design of a tool or a machine to make human errors less likely.
      4. "Find out how well TV and other media represent the elderly, women & people of color."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Design & carry out a project to change attitudes, and hopefully, behavior about an important issue."
      2. "In your group, put on a play for younger girls that demonstrates both the benefits & harmful effects of peer pressure."
      3. "Put together a booklet to help parents, teachers & other adults gain a better understanding of what it means to be a teenager."
      4. Keep a record of reactions as you change your style of clothing during a 2-week period.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Observe different types of people at work. What characteristics make them good (or bad) at what they do?
      2. Compile a list of 8-10 possible jobs for someone with a psychology background.
      3. Create a list of your roles. Do the same for an adult you know. Spend a day with her to see how she plays out her various roles.
      4. Design a dream job of the future based on your inter-personal skills.
      5. Find out about some of the techniques that are used if sports psychology and try out a couple of them.
  • Your Best Defense
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Explore several philosophies of self-defense.
      2. Take a self-defense course designed for women & girls.
      3. Body language & tone of voice play a role in stopping hostile or violent encounters from happening.
      4. Increasing your self-confidence can increase your sense of personal safety.
      5. Avoiding an attack sometimes means having to act unfriendly. Role play 2 situations in your book.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Over a 2 week period, record every aggressive act you see on TV committed against women or girls & their responses."
      2. Inventory several current issues of popular teen magazines. How do articles send mixed messages on important issues.
      3. "Explore the pros & cons of pepper spray, stun guns & other personal protection items."
      4. "Survey your peers. Ask them: ""Is carrying a gun for protection ever justifiable and, if so, when?"""
      5. Watch a police drama with friends. Role-play a violent scene with a new ending.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Invite a law-enforcement official to speak to a group of your neighbors about crime patterns & threats in your area.
      2. "Teach a group of elementary school students skills for dealing with strangers, walking home alone, etc."
      3. Offer to be of service in a place for victims of violence.
      4. Develop a directory of helpful resources for women & girls who are the victims of violence.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Interview 1 person in a law related career. Find out how they help victims, handle stress in crisis & what training & certification they received."
      2. Interview an employee or volunteer who develops projects related to domestic abuse.
      3. Shadow or interview a police officer about the skills needed in relating to people in crisis & dealing impartially with victims & offenders.
      4. "Find out & discuss the laws & policies that exist to protect children, women & elderly victims of domestic abuse."
  • Your Own Business
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Analyze several advertisements for the same product. What did you like or dislike about these advertisements?
      2. Invent a new product & conduct your own informal market research.
      3. "Research what support & resources exist at the city, state & federal agency levels for small-business owners."
      4. What makes someone a good businessperson? Interview her or invite her to speak at your meeting.
      5. Develop & implement a plan to turn a hobby into a business venture.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. How has technology changed the face and pace of business.
      2. "Draw ""before & after"" posters depicting a few of the changes in business practices, equipment, or technology over the last few decades."
      3. Investigate new techniques for presenting products.
      4. Survey several businesses in your community to find out about the equipment & technology considered most essential in their fields.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Develop a proposal explaining the importance of contributing to a special project or a worthy cause.
      2. Create a project to help parents educate their children to be knowledgeable consumers.
      3. "Arrange for ""women in business"" to be the theme for a meeting of your troop. Invite entrepreneurs to share their knowledge with you."
      4. Develop & implement a marketing plan to obtain volunteers for a Council or community project.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Create a brochure to market your talents & skills as a consultant to a prospective client.
      2. Consult a professional & learn how to prepare yourself for a job interview.
      3. Organize a career fair for your class.
      4. Shadow a business owner for a day.
      5. Explore careers of 3 women who began with small businesses & became millionaires.
Nature, Science, and Health

The following Interest Patches are all in the area of Nature, Science, and Health.

  • All About Birds
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Ever wondered how birds fly? Find out about mechanics of flight.
      2. "Birds can be identified by size, shape, color, flight patterns, voice & behavior."
      3. Birders identify birds by sound as well as sight. Identify 5 birds by their songs or call notes.
      4. Birds have fascinating histories. Study 3 types of birds.
      5. Set up a bird-feeding station. List & describe birds that visit.
      6. Watch birds. Visit a museum. Create an original work of art.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Practice using binoculars. Compare binocular features. Learn about center focusing, alignment & field of view."
      2. Specially designed traps are used to capture birds for banding. Learn about banding birds.
      3. 800-900 species of birds have been seen in North America. Design a life list database to track those you see.
      4. Environmental problems have been responsible for nearly destroying some species. Learn how they have been restored.
      5. A spotting scope & tripod enable birders to observe birds. Learn to use a scope in the field.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Loss of wildlife habitat & other things have threatened many birds. Help restore an endangered species in your area.
      2. Introduce younger Scouts to birding. Share your birding knowledge with them. List birds seen by the group.
      3. Ornithology is the branch of zoology dealing with birds. Join your local chapter & participate in a bird count or survey. Track birds seen.
      4. "Birds need food, water, nesting places, perches & hiding places. Develop a guide or poster with planting & feeding info. for local property owners."
      5. Volunteer at a local zoo or nature center that works directly with birds or indirectly by educating the public about birds.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Birds suffer injuries by being shot, poisoned, flying into buildings, etc. Where is your nearest wildlife rehabilitator? Interview her & work with her if possible."
      2. Vets work with sick & injured animals & birds. Visit a local vet. Ask about education & experience needed to become a vet.
      3. "Investigate colleges that offer programs in ornithology, wildlife biology, wildlife management or related fields. What are admission requirements?"
      4. "Shadow an ornithologist, naturalist or wildlife biologist at a nature center, zoo or refuge. Learn training needed, hiring process & tasks of the job."
      5. "Find a local artist or woodcarver specializing in birds. Observe her at work. Ask questions about her training, techniques, commissions."
  • Build a Better Future
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Learn what engineers consider when designing amusement park rides. Then with guidance of a science teacher, design your own ride. Make a model."
      2. "Study 2 different types of blueprints used in creating a building: floor layout, electrical, heating, ventilation, air conditioning & specs for fire protection, plumbing, etc."
      3. Tour a manufacturing plant. Learn about the machines used in the manufacturing process & why. What safety measures are taken?
      4. Compare brands of 1 mechanical product. Look for differences in external design & features. Which looks easiest to use & why? Which is more attractive? Why?
      5. Select 1 recyclable idem & learn how it is converted into a new product. Draw a simple diagram of the steps involved.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Learn about computer aided design (CAD) programs. Observe a demo of how CAD is used to design items. Create your own design.
      2. List 8-10 items that didn't exist 25 years ago. Learn how 3 of them work today. Improve their function & design.
      3. "Learn about 5 devices used to assist people with disabilities, describe how they work & improve the person's life."
      4. Learn about infrastructure in your community. Make an in-depth investigation of 1 community.
      5. Investigate how 3 changes in car design have enhanced safety in the past 10 years.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer at a science center that highlights technology. Assist in building an exhibit for a special event or act as an exhibit interpreter.
      2. "Plan an ""engineering' activity day with hands-on activities for younger girls."
      3. Spend a day volunteering in construction or improving the environment through a local group effort.
      4. "Plan an exhibit of engineering fields for your school, council or community."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Learn about careers in various field of engineering by using your library, writing to engineering societies, or use the Internet."
      2. Shadow an engineer for a day. What tools does she use on the job? What is most & least satisfying? Present what you learn in a class discussion.
      3. "Learn about engineer's contribution to advancing medical technology in the design of implants, CAT scans, etc."
      4. Use a computer simulation program to practice making the kind of decisions engineers make.
  • Creative Cooking
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Become familiar with the USDA Food Pyramid or Vegetarian Pyramid. Compare your daily diet. Is your diet lacking nutrients? What changes would you make?
      2. "Learn to select the freshest & healthful fruits, veges, meats, dairy, etc. Check labels for low fat, low salt."
      3. "Find a food, canned or fresh, that is NOT native to your area. Learn where it came from & how it is produced."
      4. "At a cookware section of a store, familiarize yourself with tools of the trade. When do you use certain items?"
      5. Choose a recipe that can be easily prepared while camping or hiking. Test the recip while camping or hiking.
      6. "Pick a cuisine & prepare 2 meals that include appetizers, entrees & desserts."
      7. "Adapt a standard recipe for someone with special dietary needs: low fat, low salt, low sugar, etc."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Look at the technology used in cooking. Examine advantages & disadvantages of heat sources.
      2. "There is a lot of chemistry behind many cooking tips & recipe directions. What are thickeners, leaveners?"
      3. Visit the Web site of a cooking school or food company. Compare recipes that you find with those in older cookbooks.
      4. Scientific discoveries have brought changes to cooking. Investigate a new procedure that affects food in some way.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Volunteer at a soup kitchen for at least 2 weeks, several hours a week. Learn how food is prepared & served for large groups."
      2. Organize a basic cooking class for a community center or homeless shelter with some friends.
      3. Organize a food drive for a local shelter. Consult a nutritionalist for a list of recommended foods.
      4. Work with a local service that provides nutritious meals to people who cannot leave home.
      5. "Using the Food Pyramid, evaluate the food service of a local facility."
      6. "Plan a menu for a full, festive meal. Cook & serve it to a group."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Interview a food critic at your newspaper. Ask about her experience, education & work history."
      2. Learn how institutional cooking differs from restaurant or home cooked food.
      3. Visit a local cooking class or culinary school. Talk to the administrator or teacher about types of jobs her students prepare for.
      4. "Arrange to job-shadow a chef, baker, caterer, pizza-maker, etc. List skills & techniques you observe."
      5. Get a part-time job in a restaurant or working for a caterer.
  • Digging Through the Past
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Go on a day hike & examine the geology or archaeology of the region. Make sketches or take photos of major environmental features.
      2. "Grow your own crystals. Track crystal formation with sketches, descriptions or photos. Analyze your structure."
      3. "Make a collection of at least 20 specimens of rocks, minerals & fossils. Accurately ID and label each specimen."
      4. Find out how archaeologists and anthropologists make discoveries about past cultures.
      5. "Find out about different types of fossile, including how they are formed & the clues they give us about history of the earth & the life it has supported."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. What technology is used to map the ocean floor or the surface of the earth? Make a simple topographical map of a local area.
      2. Put together a geologist's adventure kit that includes the equipment & tools geologists need in the field.
      3. Investigate how modern technology assists archaelogists & paleontologist in recreating art & artifacts from the past.
      4. Learn about earthquakes & the frequency with which they occur in your state.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Set up a rock & mineral search for younger scouts at their meeting place.
      2. Do a project to reduce erosion on your area. Devise a method to show your project halted or reduced erosion.
      3. Learn how weathering occurs & what effect it has on rocks & soils. Visit places to observe the effects of weathering.
      4. "Collect objects, such as a tooth, a shell, or a cleaned chicken bone to use as mock fossils with younger girls."
      5. "Learn about environmental issues in your area, such as agricultural, mining, foresting or irrigation practices."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Invite someone who works in a geology-related field to speak to your troop or group. Ask them to discuss the local geology of your area.
      2. Read about an individual who has done work in one of the earth sciences. What has been the significance of their work?
      3. Geology & related sciences offer a wide variety of careers to explore. Select an area & interview someone in that field.
      4. Do a college search to find out which schools offer programs in fields related to earth history or geology.
  • Eco-Action
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Learn what you & your family can do to be more environmentally aware.
      2. Choose an environmental issue affecting your community. Gather info. & evaluate it.
      3. "Record some pleasant, relaxing sounds & some that make you feel tense. Share your findings."
      4. Trace the contributions of someone deeply concerned with environmental quality.
      5. Monitor a stream for pollution sources. Learn to ID plants & animals that are found in clean & polluted water in your area.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Find out about alternative sources of energy that can cut down on personal consumption of nonrenewable resources.
      2. "Find out how hew technology is used in testing air, water & soil quality."
      3. Participate in an online discussion about 1 worldwide environmental issue to get different perspectives on the issue.
      4. "Visit a store or look through a catalog advertising ""environmentally friendly"" products."
      5. Recycling has become a major effort. Learn about 1 recycled resource & how it is recycled.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Create & display posters on energy-saving actions at a mall or other public place. Have people sign energy-saving pledges.
      2. Volunteer to work on an ongoing environmental project.
      3. Collect information from an organization concerned with environmental issues of interest to women & children.
      4. "Create a directory or display of local, state or national groups concerned with environmental issues & actions."
      5. Combine arts & environmental action. Form a theater group that addresses current topics.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Do a computer search for careers related to the environment. Contact an organization, business or person for information on specific careers."
      2. Attend a career fair that gives you the opportunity to speak with people working in related fields.
      3. Learn about careers related to the environment & the law.
      4. "Identify 3 past & present environmental activists in your community, nation or the world."
      5. "Identify 3 or more degree programs in fields concerned with the environment. Compare course requirements, list career possibilities."
  • From Shore to Sea
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Learn about creatures that inhabit ocean tide pools & a rocky shoreline.
      2. "Become a geological detective. Identify at least 3 different kinds of rocks, particles or minerals in the sand."
      3. Oceans & large bodies of water influence global weather & climate patterns.
      4. What are some environmental concerns about extraction & mining of elements from the sea? Describe & illustrate your findings.
      5. Investigate global warming. What role do oceans play in the process? Find 2 studies regarding this. Present your findings.
      6. "Create a piece of art, a collection of poems, a slide or video show inspired by the ocean or something water related."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Tour a boat used in deep-sea fishing or marine biology studies. What equipment is used?
      2. "Find out how scientists use sonar, satellites & computers to explore the deepest parts of the ocean without getting wet."
      3. "People have been using water power for centuries. Pick 1 & learn how scientists explore ocean energy to meet demands for power: ocean thermal energy, wave & tidal power or ocean currents."
      4. Fresh water is needed all over the world. Research & find out how to distill fresh water from salt water.
      5. What technology is used to predict the storms that can devastate coastal regions? Learn about tracking & procedures for safety & evacuation.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Assist with a local project involving ecological studies of aquatic species.
      2. Volunteer time with a marine conservation or education organization. Help educate the public on the importance of marine ecosystems.
      3. Assist with a clean up of a water habitat. Volunteer to publicize a clean-up day by designing and/or distributing fliers.
      4. Create an educational game for younger girls that will help them learn more about the oceans.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Develop a list of 8-10 careers in the field of oceanography. Interview someone in this field & learn what her work entails.
      2. "Investigate at least 2 Sea Grant institutions concerned with research, education & exchange of technology regarding coastal, marine & Great Lakes issues."
      3. Visit someone who earns a living from the sea. What are the issues about sustaining ocean harvests?
      4. Investigate 2 tourism careers that are associated with an ocean environment. What skills & educations might be needed?
      5. "Capture the ocean's beauty on camera, sketch pad, or by writing a poem or song about the sea."
  • Inventions and Inquiry
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Is your brain idling in neutral? Try at least 1 of the 3 ideas on page 64 or develop some of your own.
      2. "Spend a week listing problems needing to be solved at home, school or in your community."
      3. "Create an invention. Sketch your invention, label the parts. Make it 3D. Develop a prototype or working model."
      4. Find out about the patenting process. What does it mean when a patent is pending? What are trade secrets?
      5. Develop an advertising campaign for your invention or someone elses.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Survey resources for inventing on the WWW. Look for online chat groups for inventors.
      2. Explain how changes in technology have altered at least 2 inventions in terms of function or design.
      3. Investigate the role of research & development in creating a new product.
      4. "Attend a new products exposition, a science & engineering fair, or inventions fair. Look for new & improved products."
      5. Ask people in 5 different fields what they foresee as the most valuable inventions for the years beyond 2000.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Start an inventors' club through school, your troop or group. All it takes is you, 2 or 3 friends & ideas."
      2. "Women have made scientific discoveries & have come up with inventions in this & previous centuries. Create a show, play or display celebrating women inventors."
      3. Invent or improve something addressing a problem a person with a disability has to face in her life.
      4. Create a toy for young children - educational or fun. Build several models to donate to a program or center.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Read about inventors in at least 2 books. Find answers to ?'s such as: What started them in the invention process? How do you turn failure into success?, etc."
      2. "Investigate courses to take in High School or College to help you with a career direction in inventing. Draw a 1, 5 or 10 yr time line."
      3. What kinds of careers relate to inventing? Select 2 & find out more about them.
      4. "Inventors may specialize in a field of interest - ex. sports. How do you redesign equipment? If new materials are used, how were they made?"
  • It's About Time
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Illustrade or describe how 3 ancient civilizations kept track of the passage of time. Or, compare Hebrew, Mayan, Chinese & Gregorian calendars with one another."
      2. Many devices keep track of time. Construct your own timekeeper by using regularly occurring events you see or experience.
      3. Name 3 regular time cycles in nature. Devise a system for keeping time based on one of these cycles.
      4. Compare the ages of rites of passages in 3-4 cultures. What do you think was or will be your most significant rite of passage.
      5. Compare the use of rhythm & time values of notes in 4 styles of music. Does how long a note is held or the beat affect how we feel or what we do?
      6. Do you feel there isn't enough time in a day? Read pages 118-120 in 'A Resource Book for Senior GS'. Create a time clock of activities you do weekly.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Use a library's resources to help you find fashion pictures of another era.
      2. Use camera equipment to take a time-lapse photo. Try photographing in different light and settings.
      3. Find out about the technology of quartz crystal time-pieces.
      4. List 4 ways time-keeping devices have been used in medicine. Draw pictures of these devices to display.
      5. Find out about the principles behind an atomic clock. Why and how is an atomic clock used?
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Has technology lived up to its promise of freeing us from drudgery? Interview people of different generations & compare amount of time spent on work/leisure activities.
      2. "Set up & manage a ""time bank"" to provide services for people in your community who have special needs."
      3. "After consulting with teachers, or family, make a time line of 2-3 of the development stages a child goes through. Donate chart to parents or a day care center."
      4. Organize a call-in service for the elderly of your community to help them keep appointments & take medications.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Design 2-3 articles of clothing for a woman of another era. Research through books, museums or college's history departments."
      2. Find out what a time management consultant does by interviewing or reading about one.
      3. Interview 4 people in different careers to find out how they make use of time in their work.
      4. Create a time management plan that incorporates exercise & leisure activities for today's busy women. Ask 3 women to try your plan for a week. Share the results.
      5. "Create your own personal time line. Chart where you'd like to be and have accomplished in 1, 5 & 10 years."
  • Math, Maps and More
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Use math skills to create a budget for something you would like to do or own.
      2. "Determine the total calorie intake for someone your age, health & activity level. Make a menu, keeping in mind the need for balanced nutrition."
      3. Make a complete profile of yourself using numbers. Find your pulse & count for 10 sec. Multiply this X 6 - this is your resting heart rate.
      4. How do statistics determine how well a player & team in a particular sport are doing? Select a team or player to follow for a month.
      5. "Use symbols to create a key for buildings, parks & other feature of interest. Draw your map to scale."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Use graphs to illustrate an issue you feel is important. If possible, use a computer to organize the data to create graphs or charts & analyze them."
      2. Use online resources to search for math-related web sites. Learn about 3 women mathematicians. Visit a news group to discover what's being discussed by people interested in math.
      3. Play a computer game that uses math skills. Practice during several sessions to improve your skill level.
      4. Technology is changing the medical field. Talk with a professional who can show you how MRI & CAT scan images are created & used to diagnose & treat diseases.
      5. "Learn how to read a thermometer, barometer, psychrometer & an anemometer."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Create a math activity kit to use with children. Or develop a math play concept such as factors, fractions or percentages."
      2. Host a Girl Scout Game Night. Make sure games are age appropriate. You could also create your own game.
      3. Collect data that could be used to assist an organization.
      4. Volunteer to be a treasurer for an organization & keep records in a ledge for a period of at least 3 months.
      5. Help younger girls develop arithmetic skills by using simple computer math games.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "With 2 friends, create a list of 8 ""traditional' math careers. Find out which 18 fields are 'very easy entry' and which are 'delayed entry'."
      2. What does math have to do with being a chef or restaurant owner. Find out.
      3. "Use online resources, interviews etc. to investigate college programs in mathematics. Which programs are best for undergrad & graduate studies."
      4. Imagine you own a small business. How would you need to use math skills? Come up with a product or service you can provide or sell.
      5. "For a week, keep a log of all people you interact with who use math in their work. What types of math skills do they need?"
  • Pets
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Prepare a care chart for a pet that a pet-sitter, kennel, or family can use to raise & maintain an animal."
      2. Become an expert on some aspect of a particular type of animal or species.
      3. "Learn to train & socialize a specific animal. Learn what behaviors to expect, the exercise & discipline for that animal. Use these skills on an animal."
      4. "Talk with a vet, breeder, or animal supply distributor about diets for a specific animal. What health conditions are affected by diet? Share this information."
      5. "What laws does your community have regarding animals (licensing, leash laws, health laws, anti-cruelty laws, etc.) Make book or poster to illustrate."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Talk to a vet about illnesses an animal might be susceptible to. Ask about vaccines & health maintenance for an animal.
      2. Talk to a vet about environmental hazards for a pet. Ask about both people-produced and natural hazards. Identify 3-5 hazards. Chart what you learn.
      3. Investigate animal-containment devices available for specific pets. Learn the pros and conc of 2 different devices.
      4. Animals need exercise. Learn about 2-3 exercise devices available today. What changes have there been in the last 5-10 years.
      5. Locating lost or stolen animals can be difficult. Learn about devices available to make locating animals easier.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Volunteer at a kennel, shelter or vet several hours a week over a months time."
      2. "Volunteer to exercise, groom or transport an animal to a vet for a homebound person. Provide the service once a week for a month."
      3. Volunteer to raise an animal for a service organization. This may involve a 1-2 year commitment.
      4. Work with an agency or organization dedicated to animal care & protection. Work at least one day.
      5. "Work with a humane society, an animal shelter or clinic or vet to help find homes for homeless animals."
      6. Organize a pet visiting day for people who are in institutional settings.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Learn about the training & job responsibilities of a police department's canine team. How & why are they used? Create a comic book to teach others.
      2. Interview an animal-care worker about training & education she needed to complete for her job. Write an article for your community or school paper using the info. you learned.
      3. Learn about the field of animal-assisted therapy. What is the history of this field? What benefits do people get from this therapy? Why?
      4. "Learn about 3 different types of animal handlers, people who care for & groom animals."
      5. Interview the owner or employee of a pet store. What training did she go through? How have pet products changed over the years?
  • Planet Power
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Conduct an energy audit at your home, troop or group meeting place. Check windows & doors for drafts. Make checklist for inefficient use of energy. Recommend improvements. Carry out at least one of your suggestions."
      2. "At a building supply store, learn about insulating materials. Learn the meaning of the term ""R-values"". What are recommended for ceilings, outside walls & floors in your area."
      3. Create a game that shows how energy moves within a habitat like a deciduous forest. Are there more producers than consumers? Why or why not?
      4. How much electricity does each appliance in your home consume? Use the formula in your book to calculate how much electricity each appliance uses.
      5. Visit your local electric company. Ask about problems utility companies face today.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Search the library for names of solar energy information services & companies. Proceed with an activity from your book.
      2. "Review 3 sources of energy, including nuclear power, & hold a debate in your group."
      3. Suppose there is a severe oil chortage. Prepare a plan to help your family & community respond to this emergency.
      4. "Choose 2 of the following energy sources: oil, nuclear, hydroelectric, gas, solar & coal & determine steps involved in transporting this energy from its production site to the consumer."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Visit a recycling center & consider: options available for glass, paper, aluminum, plastic? Can food waste be recycled? Can you avoid purchasing overpackaged items?"
      2. "Make plans in case your home is without electricity for 2 days. How will you keep warm, cook, do homework?"
      3. Teach Brownie or Junior Scouts how to make recycled paper out of newspaper.
      4. Put on a puppet show or skit for a group of younger Girl Scouts showing the connection between recycling & energy conservation.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Invite a panel of speakers to discuss with your troop career options in the energy field. Put together a pamphlet. Distribute it to other troops.
      2. "Become an ""expert"" in one area of alternative energy. Compare advantages & disadvantages. What careers would be open to you?"
      3. Shadow an ecologist & see what an average workday is like. Ask questions you have prepared.
      4. Create a time line of events in the history of nuclear science that includes the people mentioned in your book.
  • Plant Life
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "In order for plants to absorb nutrients well, the soil has to have proper pH. Use a kit to test your soil. How do you adjust the soil for the types of plants you want to grow?"
      2. Rich soil that drains well is important to plants. Determine how well your soil drains water. What do you need to do to improve the soil?
      3. "Plan & plant a garden with at least 3 kinds of foods. Prepare the soil before planting. Arrange the garden for maximum sunlight or shade. Water, fertilize & weed your garden when possible."
      4. Visit a supermarket or distribution point for fruits & veges. Where did they come from? Create a geography game or scavenger hunt for younger girls.
      5. Start 3 new plats without using seeds.
      6. Compare traditional chemical pest control methods with natural ones. What are the advantages & disadvantages?
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Make a list of gardening tools & materials needed to grow plants. Find out what they are used for, what they are made of and why."
      2. "Visit a web site, library or botanical garden for information on growing plants hydroponically. Grow a plant hydroponically at home or school."
      3. "Tofu used to be found in the refrigerator section at the store. Now, these items are sitting right on the shelf. Discover the technology used to keep these items from spoiling."
      4. Learn about different kinds of watering tools & equipment. Which uses the least amount of water.
      5. "Scientists are trying to ""improve"" on nature. Select 3 fruits & veges & find out why they have undergone genetic engineering. Buy one and compare its taste to the regular kind if possible."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Help turn a vacant lot into an ""oasis"" by landscaping it. Or start a community vegetable garden."
      2. "With partner or troop, plant an area with native vegetation that will provide food or shelter for birds."
      3. Plant a community butterfly garden. Plan a garden that will bloom over an extended period of time.
      4. Grow or help harvest food for a community food bank. Or organize local gardeners to contribute their surplus to a food bank.
      5. "With your parks dept., plant trees or plants to help prevent erosion."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Learn about at least 1 career related to plants. Interview or shadow someone in the career.
      2. Visit a garden especially created for people with disabilities. What factors were considered in designing this space.
      3. Have you admired plants in an office building? Volunteer to take care of the plants in 1 or more of these places.
      4. Flower arrangements add beauty. Try your hand at creating botanical art by making flower baskets or gifts out of dried flowers.
      5. "Health-related facilities have developed horticultural therapy programs. Under the guidance of a trained adult, assist in a program & find out how & why it works."
  • Space Exploration
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Learn about at least 4 astronomical phenomena: quasars, pulsars, novas, supernovas, black holes, dward stars, giant stars, protostars, etc. Can you observe any of these with the naked eye?"
      2. "Visit a museum, planetarium, observatory or space center & learn the history of space exploration. Make a file of your findings."
      3. Learn about the sun & the moon & their relationship to earth. Do two of the items listed in your book.
      4. "Discuss ""the case for space"" addressing issues such as: Who owns space? Who owns the moon? What if we find other life in space? Come up with charts & posters depicting your questions & answers."
      5. Science fiction predicts future developments. Read science fiction written in the 1960's or earlier. How do they appear today in light of new information people have about space?
      6. Develop your own space exploration activity.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Find out about the capabilities of today's telescopes. If possible, visit an observatory or a site on the Web to learn more."
      2. Investigate roles of mathematics & computer simulations in developing theories about the universe. Talk with someone knowledgeable in astronomy or physics if possible.
      3. Design a human space colony. Decide whether it is a station in space or one that will be set up on a planet in this solar system. What conditions need to be considered. Share & explain your design or model with others.
      4. "Build an accurate scale model of a space exploration vehicle. Find out about its design, function & basic operation. Help other learn about your vehicle."
      5. "Construct a ""flying object"". Be able to explain the scientific principles that governed your design."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Help sponsor an event, space activity day or science career day. Incorporate hands on activities."
      2. Develop a booklet or display that highlights women who have played an important role in the history of flight & space exploration.
      3. "Help Brownie or Junior Scouts learn about space exploration. Do 2: put on a play, tell a story, or share stories from differrent cultures about the night sky."
      4. "Design a library exhibit about space & astronomy for your school, library or town rec. center. Include books, an activity box & a list of resources in your display."
      5. "Using glow-in-the-dark paint, stars, or reflector tape, make an accurate constellation map on a ceiling. Include a minimum of 12 constellations. Create a guided tour of the ceiling."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Check out at least 2 careers & show how they are linked to space programs: biomedical engineering, meteorology, ceramics, chemistry, industrial engineering, materials science, metallurgy, optical engineering, physiology & photography."
      2. "Plan to attend a ""space camp"" or astronomy camp to get more hands-on experiences."
      3. Contact 2 science societies for professional women related to astronomy or space exploration. What careers are related to space exploration.
      4. List 5 ways you can maintain your interest in space and/or astronomy. Investigate & list space-related places to visit or activities to pursue in your community or on the Web.
  • The Food Connection
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Familiarize yourself with the food pyramid. Plan a menu for two weeks, choosing foods from the pyramid."
      2. Water is the perfect drink. Make a conscious effort to drink 8 cups of water a day. Log your results.
      3. Learn about the role cholesterol plays in health. Learn the differences between HDLs & LDLs.
      4. Collect recipes on a theme of interest. Illustrate the recipes & organize them into a cookbook.
      5. Vitamins & minerals are essential to well-being. Make a poster or chart listing them & their functions.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. How large a role do media & advertising play in defining our body image?
      2. Find at least 5 resources online to help maintain a healthy lifestyle.
      3. Learn to see beyond food packaging by understanding content labels.
      4. What is insulin? What function does it have in your body? Learn about diabetes.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Volunteer to help with a communitywide health fair. Or work as a volunteer for a fitness walk or run.
      2. Create a puppet show or presentation for younger girls or the elderly addressing healthy eating habits.
      3. Organize or participate in a food drive.
      4. Serve on a committee to make recommendations for school cafeteria or camp food.
      5. Learn about different foods that are eaten & not eaten for strongly held religious or dietary beliefs.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. "Make a list of 4-6 careers related to food & for 2, learn about skills & responsibilities needed, working conditions, training, & education needed & earnings."
      2. "Agricultural science includes food, animal & soil science. Learn about specific jobs available specializing in these areas."
      3. "Dietitians work in hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Shadow a dietitian."
      4. Interview 2 women who work in health or food related careers.
      5. Get firsthand experience in a food-related field by working part-time or during the summer in a food business.
  • Why in the World?
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Why does weather change from day to day? Investigate weather patterns by talking with a meteorologist or visiting a web site. What happens when a warm front meets a cold front? What coauses global warming & holes in the ozone? Read 3 weather instruments.
      2. Have you ever asked yourself how something works? Use resources to draw a diagram of something to show how it works or make a model of it.
      3. "Visit a science museum, rock shop or gem & mineral collection to learn more about gems & minerals. Identify at least 10 minerals. Start a collection."
      4. "Investigate how new synthetic materials play an important role in 2 or more of the following: clothing, cars, homes, toys, sports equipment. What materials were previously used? What are advantages of the new materials?"
      5. "Learn about modern techniques used in food production, processing or preservation. Select 1 area & identify some key issues relevant in your community."
      6. "Be a creative cook. Learn the chemical properties of carbohydrates, microbes, acids & bases, oils & other substances. Create a recipe from scratch involving a chemical reaction."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Ergonomics is a growing field. Make 2 ""ergonomically correct"" changes in the position of your desk & other study-related furnishing & equipment."
      2. "Tour a manufacturing or food processing plant. Learn about different job responsibilites, machines used, laws that govern the manufacturing process. Show slides, photos or diagrams of your findings."
      3. "Have science & technology affected the arts? Talk with a musician, sculptor, actor, photographer or other artist. What new materials do they use? What new art forms are being created that use advances in technology? Experiment with one of them."
      4. "Name the manufactured parts that can be implanted into a human body. Discuss reasons why those parts might need to be replaced. Draw an outline of the body, label those parts."
      5. Take a common household appliance and think forward 20 years. How will it look? What might it be able to do? Draw or design & display a model of a future appliance. Present your findings.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Help organize a school or scout science fair that encourages participation by girls.
      2. Help a younger troop earn a science Try-It or Badge. Or develop a series of science & health activities for girls in a homeless shelter or after-school program.
      3. Volunteer in an ongoing program to educate others about breast cancer or osteoporosis or other diseases that affect more women than men.
      4. "Work with an organization to inform teens about Sexually Transmitted Diseases, drug use, smoking, anorexia or bulimia."
      5. Host a forum to generate interest among girls in science & math. Invite teachers & women scientists to particpate.
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. How do women get involved in science? Interview 2 women in this field. How did they get started? How do they feel about the future for women in science?
      2. Identify at least 3 women scientists who have won the Nobel Prize & report on or write about their contributions.
      3. Participate in a scientist penpal program through an established mentor project. Ask your librarian for assistance.
      4. "Volunteer as a demonstrator at a science exhibit, science museum or nature center."
  • Wildlife
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. "Find a natural area that you can use as a field ecology study site. Conduct some observations. What did you see, hear, smell or feel? Record the date, time of day, temperature & weather conditions."
      2. "Identify as many flowers, shrubs, & trees at a field ecology study site as you can. Sketch some. Using a field guide, record their names alongside your sketches."
      3. "Identify & record names of animals you see, or find signs of, at a field ecology site. Learn to recognize animal tracks. Try to follow an animal trail."
      4. "Select an animal to observe at a field ecology study site. Record the date, time, location & weather conditions. Observe behavior & how they interact with others of its kind."
      5. Put up several bird houses. Learn about box dimensions & entrance hole sizes for species you wish to attract. Discover why it is beneficial to have birds nearby.
      6. Conduct an experiment to show how a plant reacts to its environment. Record and/or illustrate what happens during your experiment. Don't injure the plant.
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. "Learn about how wildlife biologists study animals in the field. What equipment do they use? Is different equipment used for animals of the land, air or water?"
      2. "Choose 3 species from the following: birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, amphibians, fish, trees, herbaceous plants. Use current computer technology to answer questions."
      3. "Research how documentaries about wildlife are produced. Discuss ethical & practical issues related to photographing, filming or recording animals in their habitat."
      4. "Find out how insecticides, herbicides & fungicides travel through an ecosystem. Create a visual display showing hazards of using these chemicals."
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. "Teach the meaning of the following words to younger Scouts: predator, prey, plant life, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, scavenger, decomposer, wildlife community, food web."
      2. "Contact a wildlife agency, club or nature center & volunteer your services. Participate in a project to restore a wildlife habitat by planting trees or cleaning a lot. Involve other scouts."
      3. Help make a nature trail at a camp or park more accessible.
      4. "Examine your own values & beliefs related to wildlife, the environment & evaluate possible actions you could take. Discuss an environmental issue important in your area."
      5. "With the help of your GS Council, survey one campsite. Inventory the property listing plants & animals found there. Highlight threatened or endangered species & the problems they face."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Brainstorm 5 career choices involving wildlife & the environment. Contact organizations that might employ people & interview one of them. How did she get into this field?
      2. "Investigate what it means to be an ethnobotanist or cultural ecologist. Interview someone & ask what species she studies, what her background & training are, etc."
      3. Arrange to shadow a wildlife biologist or naturalist for part of a day to learn about the job.
      4. Investigate laws that protect wildlife around the world. How effective are they? Which group of people benefit from the sale of wildlife products?
  • Women's Health
    • A. Skill Builders (2)
      1. Evaluate stress in your life. What are positive stresses in your life? What are the negative stresses? Try some stress-reducing activities.
      2. "Learn about the harmful effects of drugs: alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, amphetamines, marijuana, cocaine/crack, or steriods, on the body. Participate in a project to prevent substance abuse."
      3. Investigate the importance of a healthy diet. Design a poster or draw a story-board to depict your findings.
      4. Read information on breast cancer. Help develop or promote a workshop focusing on prevention & education for peers.
      5. Bones are your body's framework. What are bones made of? Investigate the role of exercise in bone health. Share your findings.
      6. "Design an exercise program to promote cardiovascular fitness. Incorporate monitoring the pulse rate before, during & after the exercise program."
    • B. Technology (1)
      1. Visit a cardiac rehab center. Learn about technology used to detect problems & promote fitness. Share this information.
      2. Study of DNA is central to medical research. Research & discover what female health issues are related to genetic factors.
      3. Find out how advances in technology have changed the detection of breast cancer over the past 25 years.
      4. Try out 3 types of fitness equipment. Which features maintain or increase your motivation? Teach someone how to use the quipment.
    • C. Service Projects (1)
      1. Create & monitor a healthcare program for an oder relative or neighbor. Help her choose goals to achieve over a 2 month period.
      2. "Research the effects of smoking, then create an anti-smoking campaign for your school."
      3. Create a program for younger children helping them understand healthy habits & stress handling techniques.
      4. Sleep is 1 of the components of health & fitness. Present a workshop on sleep to younger girls. Include information about the sleep needs of adolescents.
      5. "Participate in a councilwide ""Be Your Best"" or sports-day event. Volunteer to coach younger scouts in a game."
    • D. Career Exploration (1)
      1. Volunteer at your local hopsital or rehabilitation center. Record your experiences & feelings in a journal.
      2. "Visit at least 2 training programs in the health care field. Learn about entrance requirements, recommended courses & career options. Interview someone enrolled in the program if possible."
      3. Investigate opportunities & issues in scientific research in the area of women's health. Visit a lab or chat room.
      4. "With a team, organize a panel discussion on the topic of careers related to women's health concerns."
      5. Read two biographies or autobiographies of women who have worked in a field related to women's health.
The Arts and History

The following Interest Patches are all in the area of The Arts and History.

  • Architecture and Environmental Design
    • A. Skill Builders 2
      1. "Learn about types of drawings architects make. Draw a room or space architecturally, showing details such as windows, stairways, closets, etc."
      2. "Create 3 drawings of architectural space. Use pencil, pen or a colored medium. Consider why 3 perspectives are important to an architect. Share your sketches."
      3. "Architectural models translate designs into 3D. Make a model. Use materials such as cardboard, lumber, wooden sticks or use a purchased model."
      4. Study your meighborhood & determine predominant architectural styles. Compare with common styles found in other parts of the country.
    • B. Technology 1
      1. "Scientific advances in construction have made some features technological marvels. Explore 3 innovations currently being tested. List benefits and drawbacks, negative environ. impact of each item."
      2. "In architecture, there is a growing concern on how construction affects air quality. Go to the library & find out how materials are used to make buildings environ. friendly. Which would you use in your home?"
      3. Find out about computer drafting or drawing programs. Design something using one of these programs.
      4. Design & build a small structure such as birdhouse. Make sure your design has a real purpose & monitor its use.
      5. Landscape architects design outdoor areas. Investigate technology available in the past 10 yrs. to facilitate the work of landscape architects.
    • C. Service Projects 1
      1. Purpose of environmental impact statements is to determine effect a project has on the environ. before starting on construction. Analyze 3 areas listed in your book. Record & observe for 2-4 weeks. Share your findings.
      2. "Identify a home repair that your family needs. Draw existing conditions, then design a solution in a series of architectural drawings or sketches."
      3. Take younger girls on an exploration of public spaces (parks & playgrounds). Help them translate their ideas for redesigning one of these.
      4. Architects take many things into consideration when they plan designs. Do an accessibility study for a campsite or program area in your council. Share your results.
    • D. Career Exploration 1
      1. "A portfolio is a requirement for admission to school, getting a job, etc. Assemble a portfolio of your creative work thus far in life. Start your portfolio with your completed interest project products."
      2. What is a typical day in the life of an architect? Visit an office of such a professional. Record your experience in a journal.
      3. Select an architect to profile. Prepare a presentation for your group on her/his work & life. Use photos & other visuals to show their work.
      4. Interview an urban planner/environmental designer. Arrange for 1 to visit your troop. Learn about their area of specialty. Ask them about specific tasks they do on a project. What skills are necessary to do their jobs?
  • Artistic Crafts
    • A. Skill Builders 2
      1. "Choose your medium: leather work, macrame, crocheting, quilting, decoupage, candle making, (more ideas in book). Do the following: Explain the process & tools needed, make a scrapbook with pictures/samples, Develop 3 designs, complete one."
      2. "Clay offers many possiblities for expression. Learn about hand building, or to throw clay on a potter's wheel. Make one finished piece."
      3. "Make your own woodcarving. Or try your hand at building something with wood, maybe a birdhouse."
      4. Find a place for craft instruction. Compare the cost of each course & find out if anyone would be willing to teach your troop.
    • B. Technology 1
      1. "Choose 3 of the following & find out about 3 tools used in each: Candle making, Stained Glass, Woodcarving, Leather working, Pottery making. Prepare demonstration on what you learn & share with your troop."
      2. The internet has sites for craft organizations from all over the world. Develop your own site or join one to exchange information about crafts w/others your age.
      3. "Stenciling is popular. Find ways modern technology changed how stencils are made & used. Experiment w/stenciling on paper or cloth, then try a more advanced project."
      4. "Visit a woodworker's shop. Ask for demonstration of jigsaws, a plane, a router or sander. What safety precautions must be taken when using these tools."
    • C. Service Projects 1
      1. Teach a simple craft to younger girls. Make sure skills are age appropriate.
      2. "Make several craft items & donate to a nursing home, children's center or other organization."
      3. "Contact craft stores, schools & community centers. Find out about courses, workshops or seminars. Put this in a newsletter, flier or brochure & distribute."
      4. "Work with your GS troop to develop your own how-to-craft manual. Give copies to your council, library or community center."
    • D. Career Exploration 1
      1. "Interview someone who earns part or all of her living with crafting. How did she get started? Visit a craft show. Talk to an artist, what kind of training was needed, what are the pitfalls, does she do other work in addition to crafting?"
      2. Career options related to crafts. Choose a crafts-related career and find out how you would pursue it.
      3. "When planning to sell your crafts, know your market. Interview a craft store owner to find out about trends in crafts in the past 10 yrs., the future. How can one keep up with these trends?"
      4. Occupational therapists help people. Ask an occupational therapist to explain or demonstrate how crafts might be used in her job.
  • Collecting
    • A. Skill Builders 2
      1. "Start a collection. Use your current interest as a starting point, or add to one already started. Find at least 5 items of interest."
      2. Find a way to use or display your collection. Describe your collection to a group of younger girls. Or display at school or a troop meeting.
      3. "Read catalogs, magazines & books on collecting. Visit stores, garage sales, street fairs, & collectors' conventions in your area."
      4. Search through closets for interesting objects. Decide on a theme and put together a display showcasing your wares.
      5. "What do you do if your collection has grown too large? Donate all or part of it to a museum, library, school or comm. center. Photograph & list the items. Write a brief description of each item."
      6. Begin a collection of Girl Scout memorabilia. See if you can find the 3 GS commemorative stamps
    • B. Technology 1
      1. Some collections must be stored under special conditions. Does your collection need special treatment? Develop a storage system to properly preserve your collection.
      2. "Some collections start by accident. Find out how computers, satellites, magnetic imaging & sound waves are helping the modern ""Indiana Joans""."
      3. Find some ways objects are dated. What is needed to date your collectibles?
      4. "Find out the methods used to detect forgeries, fakes or imitations of valuable items."
    • C. Service Projects 1
      1. Organize a flea market for your troop. Maybe a money-earning project. You can sell items collected & donated by you and your troop.
      2. Some things accumulated over years may benefit someone else. Inventory your things & arrange to give some away.
      3. Offer to help your local council catalog & preserve Girl Scout artifacts.
      4. "Volunteer your services at a local museum, or historical society that has a collection. Find out how the collections are built and maintained."
      5. Start a collectors' club for younger girls. Show them your collection & take them to exhibits in museums if possible. Help them as a group begin a collection.
    • D. Career Exploration 1
      1. "With your friends, brainstorm professions where people collect things or care for collectibles. Select one profession & learn more about it or shadow them."
      2. "Work with an antique store owner for several hours. Ask what makes something an antique, how are items appraised. Find out about her educational background & area of expertise."
      3. Curators arrange art exhibits for museums. Arrange to meet with or interview a curator & find out how she goes about acquiring artwork.
      4. "Libraries must continually add to their collections. Interview a librarian. Find out how she decides on books to add. How does she track the books, how are valuable books preserved?"
  • Fashion Design
    • A. Skill Builders 2
      1. "Create a fashion design for a specific population: pregnant women, fire or police or people with disabilities. Be creative, try to address the special needs of the people in this group."
      2. Learn to knit or crochet a garment. Ask for help choosing materials or interpreting patterns or instructions.
      3. "Ask someone how to create a pattern for a specific wardrobe item, or adapt one that you purchase. Create the garment from the pattern."
      4. "Color is an important aspect of fashion design. Collect various colored fabric samples & determine your best colors. Discuss, keep your color chart. Will it affect what you buy?"
      5. Fashion is a personal choice & should fit the wearer. Use your measurements to analyze your figure type to purchase clothing or select patterns accordingly.
      6. "Follow fashion trends by reading fashion magazines. Evaluate which trends become established & which are ""fads"". Predict your own fashion trends for next season."
      7. Design clothing for a special occasion. You might want to collaborate with a seamstress or dressmaker.
    • B. Technology 1
      1. Cloose 3 synthetic fibers. How are they made & what are their special properties. Use this info. to decide which clothes or accessories you would make out of e