First Class Rank for Scouts BSA

The First Class rank is an important step in Scouts BSA. It helps Scouts build skills they will use on campouts and in everyday life. As they work on this rank, Scouts learn how to camp, cook, and navigate. They also gain confidence as they practice these skills with their troop.

Scouts also learn how to take care of the outdoors. They use the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles to reduce their impact. This helps them protect nature and respect other people who share the same spaces. These habits become part of how they camp and hike.

Cooking is a big part of this rank. Scouts plan meals, shop for food, and cook for their patrol. They learn how to handle food safely and clean up properly. These skills help them become more responsible and prepared.

Service and leadership are also important at this level. Scouts help others through service projects and begin to take on more responsibility in their troop. These experiences help them grow and prepare for the next steps in Scouting.

1. 1. Since joining Scouts BSA, participate in 10 separate troop/patrol activities, at least six of which must be held outdoors. Of the outdoor activities, at least three must include overnight camping. These activities do not include troop or patrol meetings. On campouts, spend the night in a tent that you pitch or other structure that you help erect, such as a lean-to, snow cave, or tepee.
   2. Explain the potential impacts of camping, both on the environment and on other outdoor users. Explain why the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace Seven Principles are important for protecting the outdoors.
2. 1. Help plan a menu for one of the above campouts that includes at least one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner, and that requires cooking at least two of the meals. Tell how the menu includes the foods from MyPlate or the current USDA nutritional model and how it meets nutritional needs for the planned activity or campout.
   2. Using the menu planned in First Class requirement 2a, make a list showing a budget and the food amounts needed to feed three or more youth. Secure the ingredients.
   3. Show which pans, utensils, and other gear will be needed to cook and serve these meals.
   4. Demonstrate the procedures to follow in the safe handling and storage of fresh meats, dairy products, eggs, vegetables, and other perishable food products. Show how to properly dispose of camp garbage, cans, plastic containers, waste water and other rubbish.
   5. On one campout, serve as cook. Supervise your assistant(s) in using a stove or building a cooking fire. Prepare the breakfast, lunch, and dinner planned in First Class requirement 2a. Supervise the cleanup.
3. 1. Discuss when you should and should not use lashings.
   2. Demonstrate tying the timber hitch and clove hitch.
   3. Demonstrate tying the square, shear, and diagonal lashings by joining two or more poles or staves together
   4. Use lashings to make a useful camp gadget or structure.
4. 1. Using a map and compass, complete an orienteering course that covers at least one mile and requires measuring the height and/or width of designated items (tree, tower, canyon, ditch, etc.).
   2. Demonstrate how to use a handheld GPS unit, GPS app on a smartphone, or other electronic navigation system. Use GPS to find your current location, a destination of your choice, and the route you will take to get there. Follow that route to arrive at your destination.
5. 1. Identify or show evidence of at least 10 kinds of native plants found in your local area or campsite location. You may show evidence by identifying fallen leaves or fallen fruit that you find in the field, or as part of a collection you have made, or by photographs you have taken.
   2. Identify two ways to obtain a weather forecast for an upcoming activity. Explain why weather forecasts are important when planning for an event.
   3. Describe at least three natural indicators of impending hazardous weather, the potential dangerous events that might result from such weather conditions, and the appropriate actions to take.
   4. Describe extreme weather conditions you might encounter in the outdoors in your local geographic area. Discuss how you would determine ahead of time the potential risk of these types of weather dangers, alternative planning considerations to avoid such risks, and how you would prepare for and respond to those weather conditions.
6. 1. Successfully complete the BSA swimmer test.
   2. Tell what precautions must be taken for a safe trip afloat.
   3. Identify the basic parts of a canoe, kayak, or other boat. Identify the parts of a paddle or an oar.
   4. Describe proper body positioning in a watercraft, depending on the type and size of the vessel. Explain the importance of proper body position in the boat.
   5. With a helper and a practice victim, show a line rescue both as tender and as rescuer. (The practice victim should be approximately 30 feet from shore in deep water.)
7. 1. Demonstrate bandages for a sprained ankle and for injuries on the head, the upper arm, and the collarbone.
   2. By yourself and with a partner, show how to:
      • Transport a person from a smoke-filled room.
      • Transport for at least 25 yards a person with a sprained ankle.
   3. Tell the five most common signals of a heart attack. Explain the steps (procedures) in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
   4. Tell what utility services exist in your home or meeting place. Describe potential hazards associated with these utilities and tell how to respond in emergency situations.
   5. Develop an emergency action plan for your home that includes what to do in case of fire, storm, power outage, and water outage.
   6. Explain how to obtain potable water in an emergency.
8. 1. After completing Second Class requirement 7a, be physically active at least 30 minutes each day for five days a week for four weeks. Keep track of your activities.
   2. Share your challenges and successes in completing First Class requirement 8a. Set a goal for continuing to include physical activity as part of your daily life.
9. 1. Visit and discuss with a selected individual approved by your leader (for example, an elected official, judge, attorney, civil servant, principal, or teacher) the constitutional rights and obligations of a U.S. citizen.
   2. Investigate an environmental issue affecting your community. Share what you learned about that issue with your patrol or troop. Tell what, if anything, could be done by you or your community to address the concern.
   3. On a Scouting or family outing, take note of the trash and garbage you produce. Before your next similar outing, decide how you can reduce, recycle, or repurpose what you take on that outing, and then put those plans into action. Compare your results.
   4. Participate in three hours of service through one or more service projects approved by your Scoutmaster. The project(s) must not be the same service project(s) used for Tenderfoot requirement 7b and Second Class requirement 8e. Explain how your service to others relates to the Scout Law.
10. Tell someone who is eligible to join Scouts BSA, or an inactive Scout, about your Scouting activities. Invite this person to an outing, activity, service project, or meeting. Provide information on how to join, or encourage the inactive Scout to become active. Share your efforts with your Scoutmaster or other adult leader.
11. Demonstrate Scout spirit by living the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Tell how you have done your duty to God and how you have lived four different points of the Scout Law (different from those points used for previous ranks) in your everyday life.
12. While working toward the First Class rank, and after completing Second Class requirement 11, participate in a Scoutmaster conference.
13. Successfully complete your board of review for the First Class rank.

Download the First Class Rank Requirements

First Class Rank Workbook / Worksheet

First Class Rank Requirements Check Off Sheet

Help with Answers for First Class Rank Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the First Class rank requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Camping and Outdoor Ethics
• Requirement 2: Cooking
• Requirement 3: Tools
• Requirement 4: Navigation
• Requirement 5: Nature
• Requirement 6: Aquatics
• Requirement 7: First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
• Requirement 8: Fitness
• Requirement 9: Citizenship
• Requirement 10: Leadership
• Requirement 11: Scout Spirit
• Requirement 12: Scoutmaster Conference
• Requirement 13: Board of Review
• More Resources

Requirement 1a: Outdoor Activities And Camping

What You Need To Do

Take part in 10 troop or patrol activities. At least six must be outdoors, and three must include overnight camping. Help set up your tent or another shelter.

Helpful Tips

• Go to meetings and outings regularly so you can count enough activities.
• Make sure you have at least six outdoor events and three campouts. Keep track as you go.
• Help set up your tent on every campout. You can also help build a simple shelter like a lean-to if your troop does that.
• Work with your patrol. Share tasks like setting up camp and cleaning up.
• Find out How Many Count as a Patrol.
• Keep a simple record of your activities. Write down the date, place, and what you did. See Camping Log for Scouts BSA.
• Consider getting a Good Backpack for Short Term Camping.

Leader Tips

• Remind Scouts which activities count toward this requirement.
• Encourage Scouts to take an active role on campouts.
• Help Scouts track their progress so nothing is missed.

Requirement 1b: Outdoor Impact And Ethics

What You Need To Do
Explain how camping can affect the environment and other people. Explain why the Outdoor Code and Leave No Trace principles are important.

Helpful Tips

• Think about how camping can cause damage. This can include trampling plants, leaving trash, or making too much noise.
• Consider other people. Loud noise or messy campsites can affect their experience.
• Learn the Outdoor Code. It reminds you to care for nature and respect others. Read more about the Outdoor Code.
• Know the Leave No Trace principles. These give you clear actions, like packing out trash and staying on trails. Learn more about Leave No Trace.
• Give simple examples. Talk about picking up trash, keeping campsites clean, and being quiet when needed.

Leader Tips

• Use real camp examples to show impact.
• Ask Scouts how they can reduce their impact.
• Focus on actions Scouts can take on their next outing.

Requirement 2a: Plan A Camp Menu

What You Need To Do
Help plan a menu for a campout with one breakfast, one lunch, and one dinner. Cook at least two of the meals and explain how the menu meets nutrition needs.

Helpful Tips

• Plan simple meals that are easy to cook at camp. Choose foods your patrol will enjoy.
• See lots of camping recipes here.
• See some fool proof Dutch oven tips and recipes.
• See some new foil pack combinations and tips for cooking these easy meals.
• Include all food groups. Try to add fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.
• Think about the activity level. Camp meals should give you enough energy.
• Choose meals you can actually cook outdoors. Practice at home if needed.
• Work with your patrol to decide on the menu. Share ideas and agree on a plan.

Leader Tips

• Guide Scouts to plan simple and balanced meals.
• Ask how their menu meets basic nutrition needs.
• Encourage teamwork when planning meals.

Requirement 2d: Food Safety And Cleanup

What You Need To Do
Show how to safely handle and store food. Show how to properly dispose of garbage and wastewater at camp.

Helpful Tips

• Keep cold foods in a cooler with ice. Store the cooler in the shade and keep it closed as much as possible.
• Keep raw meat separate from other foods. Use different containers and utensils.
• See tips for purchasing, transporting, and safely storing food at Help for Grubmasters.
• Cook food all the way through. Make sure meats are fully cooked before eating.
• Clean your hands, tools, and cooking area often. Use soap and water when you can.
• Do not leave food out too long. Put leftovers back in the cooler right away.
• Dispose of trash properly. Use trash bags and pack it out if needed.
• Handle wastewater the right way. Strain out food bits and scatter the water away from camp and water sources. See Disposing of Dishwater at Camp.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate safe food handling during campouts.
• Check that Scouts are cleaning up and storing food correctly.
• Connect food safety to health and Leave No Trace.

Requirement 3: Lashings

What You Need To Do
Explain when lashings should and should not be used. Show how to tie a timber hitch and clove hitch. Show square, shear, and diagonal lashings. Use lashings to build a camp gadget.

Helpful Tips

• Know when to use lashings. Use them to build camp gadgets like a tripod, flagpole, or washstand. They are good for temporary structures.
• Know when not to use them. Do not use lashings if materials are weak or if a permanent structure is needed.
• Learn the knots first. The timber hitch is used to start lashings or move logs. The clove hitch is used to start and finish lashings or tie to a post.
• Understand each lashing. Square lashing joins poles at a right angle. Shear lashing makes a tripod or support. Diagonal lashing strengthens crossed poles.
• Practice by building something simple. Try a tripod, tool rack, or small stand at camp.
  • Pot and Towel Rack Camp Gadget: These instructions are for a pot and towel drying rack for camp
  • Hand Washing Station Gadget: This uses lashings to make a handwashing station from straight sticks and an empty gallon milk jug.
  • Boot Scraper Camp Gadget: A very simple boot scraper camp gadget for scraping the mud off of the bottom of the boots.
• Check out Animated Knots: This site uses animations to show how to tie lots of different knots:
  • Timber Hitch
  • Clove Hitch
  • Square Lashing
  • Shear Lashing
  • Diagonal Lashing

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate each knot and lashing step by step.
• It is helpful to go over the terminology with Scouts before working on learning a knot.
• Give Scouts time to build simple camp gadgets.
• Focus on proper use as well as tying skill.
• Try a game to teach skills:
  • Crossing the Alligator Pit Game: This is a challenging game which combines lashing skills and teamwork.
  • Snapper Fishing Game: This is a traditional Scout lashings game which might date back to Baden-Powell himself. It practices Scoutcraft (lashings) as well as cooperation and problem solving.

Requirement 4a And 4b: Navigation

What You Need To Do
Complete an orienteering course using a map and compass. Show how to use a GPS device to find your location and follow a route.

Helpful Tips

• Learn how to read a map. Understand symbols, scale, and how to find directions.
• Practice using a compass. Learn how to set a bearing and follow it.
• Orient your map. Line it up with what you see around you before you start.
• Take your time on the course. Check your direction often so you stay on track.
• Learn how to use a GPS. Find your location, set a destination, and follow the route.
• Practice both skills. Use a map and compass first, then check your work with GPS.
• Fill out a Personal Measurement Log for Orienteering to help with distances.

Leader Tips

• Teach map and compass skills before the course.
• Give Scouts time to practice in a simple area first.
• Make sure Scouts understand both traditional and GPS navigation.
• Hold an Orienteering Scavenger Hunt to help Scouts learn navigation skills.

Requirement 5a: Native Plants

What You Need To Do
Identify or show evidence of at least 10 native plants in your area or campsite.

Helpful Tips

• Look for plants on hikes and campouts. Pay attention to leaves, flowers, and shapes.
• Use simple methods to record what you find. Take photos or collect fallen leaves or fruit.
• Do not pick live plants unless allowed. Respect nature while you learn.
• Learn a little about each plant. Know its name and where it grows.
• Notice how plants help wildlife. Some provide food or shelter for animals.
• Ask a leader or use a guidebook if you are not sure what a plant is.
• Check out Native Plants in Your Area: Enter your zip code to find out about plants near you.

Leader Tips

• Point out plants during outings.
• Encourage Scouts to observe without damaging nature.
• Keep the focus on simple identification and awareness.

Requirement 5b: Weather Forecasts

What You Need To Do
Identify two ways to get a weather forecast. Explain why weather forecasts are important.

Helpful Tips

• Learn at least two ways to check the weather. You can use a weather app, website, TV, or radio.
• Check the weather before every outing. Look for temperature, rain, wind, and storms.
• Think about safety. Bad weather can make activities dangerous.
• Use the forecast to plan. Bring the right clothing and gear for the conditions.
• Be ready to adjust plans. Sometimes activities need to change because of weather.

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts how they checked the weather before an outing.
• Connect forecasts to real decisions like gear and safety.
• Keep the focus on simple and practical use.

Requirement 5c: Weather Signs

What You Need To Do
Describe natural signs of bad weather. Explain the dangers they can bring and what actions to take.

Helpful Tips

• Watch the sky. Dark, tall clouds can mean a storm is coming.
• Notice wind changes. Strong or shifting winds can be a warning sign.
• Pay attention to temperature. A quick drop can mean bad weather is near.
• Know the dangers. Storms can bring lightning, heavy rain, and strong winds. Cold weather can lead to hypothermia.
• Take action early. Move to a safe place, secure gear, and follow your leader’s directions.
• Tell a leader if you notice changes in the weather.

Leader Tips

• Point out weather signs during outings.
• Discuss what actions to take in different situations.
• Keep the focus on safety and quick response.

Requirement 5d: Extreme Weather

What You Need To Do
Describe extreme weather in your area. Explain how to prepare for it and what to do if it happens.

Helpful Tips

• Know the types of weather you might face. This can include heat, storms, cold, or flooding.
• Check the weather before every outing. Look for warnings or changing conditions.
• Plan ahead. Know the area and have a backup plan if weather gets bad.
• Bring the right gear. Pack rain gear, warm layers, or sun protection as needed.
• Carry basic supplies. Bring water, food, and a first aid kit.
• Know what to do. Seek shelter in storms, stay dry in cold weather, and move to higher ground in floods.

Leader Tips

• Talk about local weather risks before outings.
• Review simple actions Scouts can take in each situation.
• Keep the focus on preparation and safety.
• The Weather Hazards Online Course will help you know how to be prepared for all sorts of weather.

Requirement 6a: BSA Swimmer Test

What You Need To Do
Complete the BSA swimmer test. Jump into deep water, swim 75 yards using strong strokes, then 25 yards using a resting backstroke, and float for one minute.

Helpful Tips

• Know the steps. See this guide to the Scouting America Swim Test.
• You must jump in, swim 100 yards total, and then float.
• Use strong strokes for the first 75 yards. You can switch strokes if needed.
• Use a resting backstroke for the last 25 yards to save energy.
• Practice floating on your back. Stay calm and breathe slowly.
• Build endurance by swimming regularly before the test.
• Ask for help if you need it. A coach or instructor can help improve your form.

Leader Tips

• Make sure Scouts understand each part of the test.
• Encourage practice before testing day.
• Focus on safety and confidence in the water.

Requirement 6b: Safety Afloat

What You Need To Do
Tell what precautions must be taken for a safe trip on the water.

Helpful Tips

• Know that trained adult supervision is required for all water activities.
• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket when on the water.
• Make sure you have the right skills. You may need to pass the swimmer test for some activities.
• Plan ahead. Choose a route and activity that fits the group’s skill level.
• Check equipment. Boats, paddles, and gear should be in good condition.
• Understand basic safety rules. Know what to do if someone falls in or a boat tips over.
• Bring a way to communicate, like a phone in a waterproof case.
• Follow all instructions from leaders and stay focused during the activity.
• Learn more at Safety Afloat.

Leader Tips

• Review safety rules before going on the water.
• Check that all Scouts have proper gear and life jackets.
• Keep the focus on safety, supervision, and preparation.

Requirement 6c: Watercraft Basics

What You Need To Do
Identify the basic parts of a canoe, kayak, and paddle. Describe proper body position in a watercraft and why it matters.

Helpful Tips

• Learn the main parts of a canoe and kayak. Know the bow (front), stern (back), and hull (body).
• Understand a few key parts. On a canoe, know the gunwales and yoke. On a kayak, know the cockpit and deck.
• Learn paddle parts. A canoe paddle has a blade, shaft, and grip. A kayak paddle has two blades and a shaft.
• Practice proper position. In a canoe, sit or kneel low and stay centered. In a kayak, sit upright with your feet braced.
• Know why it matters. Good position helps you stay balanced, paddle better, and avoid tipping.

Leader Tips

• Point out parts on real boats when possible.
• Have Scouts practice sitting and holding paddles correctly.
• Keep the focus on safety and control.

Requirement 6d: Line Rescue

What You Need To Do
Show how to do a line rescue as both the rescuer and the tender.

Helpful Tips

• Know the roles. The rescuer throws the line. The tender controls the rope and pulls the person in.
• Use the right equipment. The rope should float and be long enough to reach the person. Keep it coiled so it does not tangle.
• Stand in a safe place. The tender should have good footing and be ready to hold the line.
• Communicate clearly. Tell the person to grab the rope and hold on tightly.
• Pull slowly and steadily. Bring the person to safety without jerking the line.
• Always think about safety. Do not put yourself at risk during the rescue.
• Learn more about Water Rescue Techniques.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate each role step by step.
• Let Scouts practice in a safe, controlled setting.
• Emphasize safety and clear communication.

Requirement 7b: Transporting An Injured Person

What You Need To Do
Show how to move a person from a smoke-filled area and how to move a person with a sprained ankle.

Helpful Tips

• For smoke, stay low to avoid breathing it in. If the person cannot walk, use a drag method to pull them to safety.
• If two rescuers are helping, one supports the shoulders and one supports the legs. Move together and stay low.
• For a sprained ankle, help the person stand on their good leg. Support them like a human crutch.
• If two rescuers are helping, support the person on both sides and walk them slowly.
• Move carefully. Do not rush or cause more injury.
• Stay calm and think before you act. Choose the safest way to move the person.

Leader Tips

• Demonstrate each method clearly.
• Let Scouts practice with partners.
• Focus on safety, control, and proper support.

Requirement 7c: Heart Attack Signs And CPR

What You Need To Do
Tell the common signs of a heart attack. Explain the steps of CPR.

Helpful Tips

• Learn the main signs. Chest pain, trouble breathing, pain in the arm or jaw, sweating, nausea, and unusual tiredness.
• Take signs seriously. If you think someone is having a heart attack, get help right away.
• Know the first steps. Check if the person responds and call for help.
• Check breathing. If they are not breathing normally, start CPR.
• Do chest compressions. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
• If trained, give rescue breaths after compressions. Keep going until help arrives.
• Practice with a trained leader or class if possible.

Leader Tips

• Keep explanations simple and focused on key steps.
• Encourage proper training for CPR skills.
• Stress calling for help and staying calm.

Requirement 7d: Utility Safety

What You Need To Do
Tell what utility services are in your home or meeting place. Describe hazards and explain what to do in an emergency.

Helpful Tips

• Know the main utilities. These include electricity, water, gas, sewage, and communication systems.
• Electricity hazards include shocks and fires from damaged cords or overloaded outlets. If there is a problem, turn off the power at the breaker. Do not use water on electrical fires.
• Water hazards include flooding from broken pipes. Turn off the main water valve and stay away from outlets or appliances in wet areas.
• Gas hazards include leaks, often with a rotten egg smell. Do not use lights or flames. Leave the area right away and call for help from outside.
• Sewage hazards include backups or spills. Stay away from the waste and tell an adult so it can be handled safely.
• Communication problems can happen during emergencies. Have a phone ready and know how to call for help.

Leader Tips

• Give clear examples of hazards and responses.
• Point out utility controls when possible.
• Emphasize safety and getting help quickly.

Requirement 7e: Safe Drinking Water

What You Need To Do
Explain how to get safe drinking water in an emergency.

Helpful Tips

• Know safe methods. Boiling water is the most reliable. Bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute.
• Use purification tablets if you have them. Follow the directions carefully.
• Use a water filter if available. Make sure it is made for outdoor use.
• You can also use UV light devices if you have one and the water is clear.
• Collect water safely. Use rainwater or water from streams or lakes, but always treat it first.
• Avoid unsafe water. Do not use water that looks dirty, smells bad, or has debris.
• Always treat water before drinking, even if it looks clean.

Leader Tips

• Show different ways to purify water.
• Stress that untreated water is not safe to drink.
• Keep the focus on simple and reliable methods.

Requirement 9a: Citizenship Discussion

What You Need To Do
Talk with a community leader about the rights and duties of U.S. citizens.

Helpful Tips

• Choose someone to talk to. This could be a teacher, principal, or community leader.
• Set up a time to meet. Be prepared with a few simple questions.
• Learn some basic rights. These include freedom of speech, religion, and the right to vote.
• Understand basic duties. These include following laws, paying taxes, and helping your community.
• Listen carefully and take notes. Be ready to explain what you learned.
• Share what you learned with your leader after the discussion.

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts find someone appropriate to talk to.
• Suggest simple questions they can ask.
• Focus on understanding rights and responsibilities.

Requirement 9b: Environmental Issues

What You Need To Do
Identify an environmental issue in your community. Explain what causes it and what people can do about it.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a local issue. This could be litter, water waste, air pollution, or loss of wildlife habitat.
• Learn what causes the problem. For example, trash can come from careless behavior or lack of bins.
• Think about the impact. How does it affect people, animals, or the environment?
• Consider simple solutions. This could include recycling, saving water, or planting native plants.
• Take action if you can. Join a cleanup, reduce waste at home, or help with a project.
• Be ready to explain the problem and one or two ways to improve it.

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts choose simple, local issues.
• Encourage thinking about causes and solutions.
• Focus on practical actions Scouts can take.

Requirement 9c: Waste Reduction

What You Need To Do
Observe the waste created on an outing. Explain how to reduce, reuse, or recycle waste on future outings.

Helpful Tips

• Pay attention to trash on a campout or outing. Notice how much is thrown away and what types of waste you see.
• Think about ways to reduce waste. Bring reusable water bottles, plates, and utensils instead of disposable ones.
• Plan meals carefully. Bring only what you need to avoid extra packaging and leftovers.
• Reuse items when possible. Save containers for future use or collect food scraps for composting if allowed.
• Recycle what you can. Separate items like cans, paper, and plastic and dispose of them properly later.
• Be ready to explain one or two changes your group could make next time.

Leader Tips

• Ask Scouts to observe waste during real outings.
• Encourage simple and practical solutions.
• Focus on habits Scouts can use on every trip.

Requirement 10: Service

What You Need To Do
Take part in a service project approved by your Scoutmaster.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a project that helps others. This could be a cleanup, food drive, or helping someone in need. See some Service Project Ideas.
• Work with your troop or patrol. Service is often done as a group activity.
• Follow directions from your leaders or the group running the project.
• Do your best and stay focused. Show a positive attitude while you work.
• Think about the Scout Law. Be helpful, kind, and respectful during the project.
• Afterward, be ready to talk about what you did and how it helped others.

Leader Tips

• Approve projects that provide real service.
• Encourage Scouts to take an active role.
• Connect service to living the Scout Law.

What is the First Class rank?

The First Class rank is a level in Scouts BSA that Scouts can achieve after completing specific skills and knowledge requirements. It focuses on outdoor skills, citizenship, and personal fitness.

How do I earn the First Class rank?

To earn the First Class rank, you must complete a series of requirements that include camping, first aid, swimming, navigation, and participating in service projects. You also need to demonstrate Scout spirit and leadership.

What are some skills I need for the First Class rank?

A few skills for the First Class rank include setting up a tent, cooking a meal outdoors, performing basic first aid, navigating with a map and compass, and swimming.

Why is the First Class rank important?

The First Class rank is important because it helps Scouts build skills for outdoor activities, strengthens character by learning the Scout Oath and Law, and prepares Scouts for more advanced challenges.

How long does it usually take to achieve the First Class rank?

The time it takes to achieve the First Class rank can vary. It typically takes several months to a year, depending on how often a Scout participates in activities and works on requirements.

Can I work on requirements for the First Class rank and other ranks at the same time?

Yes, Scouts can work on requirements for the First Class rank while completing those for the Tenderfoot and Second Class ranks. This can help Scouts progress more efficiently through the ranks.

What happens after I complete all the requirements for the First Class rank?

After completing all the requirements, you must participate in a Scoutmaster conference and successfully complete a board of review. After these are done, you will officially earn the First Class rank.

What are some good service project ideas for the First Class rank?

Good service projects for the First Class rank include community clean-ups, helping at a local food bank, organizing a recycling drive, or assisting at an animal shelter.

How do I prepare for the board of review for the First Class rank?

Prepare for the board of review by reviewing all the skills you learned for the First Class rank, reflecting on your experiences in Scouting, and thinking about your goals in Scouts.

The First Class rank is a significant milestone in the Scouts BSA program. It represents a level of proficiency in core scouting skills, especially those related to outdoor activities. Scouts working towards this rank learn a variety of skills that are essential for safe and enjoyable outdoor adventures. These include camping, cooking outdoors, swimming, using a map and compass, and performing first aid.

Achieving the First Class rank involves completing a series of requirements that encourage personal growth and community involvement. Scouts must participate in service projects, demonstrate leadership skills, and show a commitment to the Scout Oath and Scout Law. The process helps Scouts develop a sense of responsibility and improves their ability to work as part of a team.

Preparation for the First Class rank also involves physical fitness activities, environmental conservation efforts, and learning how to respond in emergency situations. These activities are designed to challenge Scouts and provide them with the experiences necessary to become competent outdoorsmen and thoughtful citizens.

The journey to the First Class rank is designed to equip Scouts with skills and experiences that form the foundation of their scouting career and personal development. It’s not just about enjoying the great outdoors, but also about preparing to be a helpful, responsible, and active participant in the community.