Board of Review Questions

Reader Shelley asked

I’m a new Troop Committee Chair and was wondering if anyone has some great questions that they ask their Scouts during their Board of Reviews?

As a new Troop Committee Chair, it’s understandable that you may be seeking guidance on the types of questions to ask during Board of Reviews. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, there are some key areas you can focus on to ensure a meaningful conversation with the Scouts.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that a Board of Review is not a test or an interrogation. Instead, it’s an opportunity to evaluate the Scout’s growth, achievements, and understanding of the Scouting principles. With this in mind, your questions should aim to assess their knowledge, experiences, and personal growth within the program.

Consider asking questions that delve into their understanding of the Scout Oath and Law, their involvement in service projects, leadership roles they have taken on, and how they have applied the skills they’ve learned in Scouting to their everyday lives. Additionally, you can inquire about their favorite Scouting memories, challenges they’ve overcome, and goals they have set for themselves.

Remember, the goal is to have a constructive and supportive conversation that encourages self-reflection and growth. By asking thoughtful questions that align with the values of Scouting, you can help Scouts reflect on their journey and provide valuable feedback to support their continued development.

Before diving into the specific questions to ask during a Board of Review, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what a Board of Review is and what it is not. This knowledge will help guide your approach and ensure a productive and meaningful conversation with the Scouts.

A Board of Review is not a test or an interrogation. It is not meant to put the Scout on the spot or make them feel uncomfortable. Instead, it is an opportunity to evaluate the Scout’s growth, achievements, and understanding of the Scouting principles. It is a chance to celebrate their accomplishments and provide guidance for their continued development.

To familiarize yourself with the procedures and purposes of a Board of Review, the official BSA site offers a training module that can be used to educate your Committee members on the process.

Remember, a Board of Review is a conversation, not a grilling. It should be a supportive and constructive dialogue that encourages self-reflection and growth. To gain further insight into the nature of a Board of Review, refer to the article “This Is Not a Test” from Scouting Magazine.

By understanding the essence of a Board of Review, you can approach the questioning process with the right mindset and create an environment that fosters the Scout’s personal and Scouting development.

First put the Scout at ease. When conducting a Board of Review, it’s important to ask different types of questions to engage the Scout and encourage meaningful conversation. Start by putting the Scout at ease with easy questions that they can answer confidently. For example, ask about their current rank, patrol, or patrol leader. These questions help to establish a comfortable atmosphere and get the conversation started.

Ask open ended questions. Next, ask open-ended questions that require the Scout to provide more detailed responses. For instance, ask them to describe how they fulfilled a specific requirement or what they cooked during a campout. Open-ended questions allow the Scout to share their experiences and showcase their knowledge.

Find out about their Scouting experience. To gain insight into the Scout’s overall Scouting experience, ask questions about any difficulties they may be facing in the troop or how their patrol is working out. This helps you understand their perspective and identify areas where they may need support or guidance.

Find out where they are headed with their Scouting career. Ask about their aspirations for the next year in the troop or if they have considered taking on a position of responsibility. These questions encourage the Scout to think about their personal growth and involvement within the troop.

A Board of Review is also an opportunity to gather feedback on the troop program. Ask the Scout if they have any ideas for future campouts or activities, or if there’s something specific they would like to learn within the troop setting. This not only shows that their input is valued but also encourages them to take initiative and get involved in shaping the troop’s activities.

Remember, the questions asked during a Board of Review can vary depending on the individual Scout. If you are aware of any challenges they may be facing or notable achievements they have accomplished, tailor your questions accordingly to explore those areas further. This personalized approach can lead to more meaningful and productive conversations during the review.

If you are still struggling to come up with ideas, here are some more sample Board of Review questions for each rank:

Tenderfoot Board of Review Questions

See the Tenderfoot rank requirements

To conduct a successful Board of Review for Tenderfoot Scouts, it is important to ask relevant and thought-provoking questions. These questions should assess the Scout’s understanding of the Tenderfoot rank requirements and their ability to apply the skills they have learned. Here are some suggested questions for the Tenderfoot Board of Review:

• How did your first troop camp out go? Where did you go and what activities did you participate in?
• What meal did you assist in preparing on your campout? Why is it important for everyone to help with meal prep and cleanup?
• Can you explain a first aid skill you learned and how you would apply it in a real-life situation?
• Tell us about your experience completing the physical fitness requirements. Did you do them individually or with a group?
• Can you explain the meaning of the Scout Oath and Law and how you have demonstrated these principles in your daily life?
• Describe a camping trip you have been on and the challenges you faced. How did you overcome these challenges?
• Share an example of how you have shown respect for the environment during your outdoor activities.
• Discuss a service project you have participated in and how it has helped you understand the importance of giving back to the community.
• Explain the importance of physical fitness and how you have incorporated it into your daily routine.
• Describe a situation where you had to demonstrate good leadership skills and how you handled it.
• Explain the significance of the buddy system and how you have practiced it to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
• Discuss a merit badge you are interested in earning and why it appeals to you.
• Share a personal goal you have set for yourself as a Scout and how you plan to achieve it.

These questions will help assess the Scout’s knowledge, skills, and character development as they progress towards the Tenderfoot rank. Remember to adapt and personalize these questions based on the individual Scout’s experiences and achievements.

Second Class Board of Review Questions

See the Second Class rank requirements

For a successful Second Class Scout Board of Review, ask questions related to their activities. Make sure these questions test the Scout’s knowledge of Second Class rank requirements and skills. Here are some question ideas for the Second Class Board of Review:

• Share a memorable experience from a recent campout and what you learned from it.
• What factors did you consider when recommending a patrol site and tent pitching location?
• Explain a knot or lashings technique you have mastered and how you have used it in a practical situation.
• Discuss your progress in developing outdoor skills, such as cooking a meal or setting up a tent.
• Reflect on your involvement in the patrol and how you have contributed to its success.
• Describe a flag ceremony you have participated in and how it has helped you develop a sense of responsibility and citizenship.
• Share an example of how you have demonstrated the principles of Leave No Trace during your camping trips.
• Discuss a skill you have learned in Scouting and how you have used it to help others or contribute to your patrol or troop.
• Discuss your experience with the program on the dangers of substance abuse.
• Describe a leadership role you have taken on within your patrol or troop and how you have contributed to the success of the group.
• Discuss a merit badge you have earned and how it has helped you develop new skills or explore a new interest.
• Share a personal goal you have set for yourself as a Scout and how you plan to achieve it.

These questions aim to evaluate the Scout’s understanding, abilities, and personal growth as they work toward Second Class rank. Tailor these questions to fit the specific experiences and accomplishments of each Scout.

First Class Board of Review Questions

See the First Class rank requirements

For a successful First Class Scout Board of Review, ask questions that are on point and make the Scout think. The questions should check if the Scout understands the First Class rank requirements and can use the skills they’ve picked up. Here are some questions to consider for this review:

• Can you name some outdoor activities you’ve participated in? How did your troop or patrol choose these activities?
• What was the toughest part about planning the menu for a campout? How did you decide the budget and amount of food needed?
• Describe your experience with orienteering. Did you find it hard? How did you use a GPS unit during your campout or hike?
• Explain how you have demonstrated the Scout Law in your interactions with others.
• How do you usually check the weather before an outdoor activity?
• Reflect on your personal growth and development since achieving the Second Class rank.
• Can you explain the importance of the Scout Oath and Law in your daily life and how you have demonstrated these principles?
• Describe a leadership position you have held within your troop and how you have influenced and motivated others.
• Explain how you applied one principle of Tread Lightly! during a campout.
• What kind of physical activities did you include in your daily routine?
• Can you tell us about an environmental issue you investigated?
• Discuss a service project you have organized or participated in and how it has made a positive impact on your community.
• Have you invited anyone to join Scouts or become more active? How did it go?
• Describe a challenging situation you have faced in Scouting and how you overcame it, demonstrating your resilience and problem-solving skills.
• Discuss a merit badge you have earned that has helped you develop valuable skills and how you have applied those skills in your daily life.
• Share a personal goal you have set for yourself as a First Class Scout and how you plan to achieve it.

These questions can serve as a starting point for your Board of Review, but feel free to adapt and personalize them based on the individual Scout’s experiences and achievements.

Star Board of Review Questions

See the Star rank requirements

The following questions are designed to delve into the Scout’s experiences and lessons learned while achieving the Star rank. They offer an opportunity for the Scout to discuss the application of Scouting principles in everyday life, leadership experiences, and personal growth. Scouts are encouraged to provide detailed answers for a more comprehensive review.

• Of the merit badges you earned so far, which was the most challenging? Why?
• What leadership roles have you taken on in your troop? How have these roles helped you grow?
• What service project did you participate in? Why did you choose this project?
• Is there any aspect of the troop which you think could be better? What is an improvement you would like to see?
• Can you explain the significance of the Scout Oath and Law in your life and how you have applied these principles in your interactions with others?
• How do you approach fulfilling your duty to God, and can you give an example?
• How has being a Scout affected your school life or relationships with friends and family?
• What’s been the most rewarding part of your time as a First Class Scout?
• What was the most difficult obstacle you faced while progressing to the Star rank, and how did you overcome it?
• Are there skills or lessons you’ve learned in Scouting that you’ve applied in other areas of your life?
• Discuss your future goals as a Star Scout and how you plan to continue your leadership and service within your troop and community.

These questions aim to gauge the Scout’s understanding, leadership skills, and adherence to the Scout Oath and Law on their journey to the Star rank. Feel free to customize these questions to suit the unique experiences and accomplishments of each Scout.

Life Board of Review Questions

See the Life rank requirements

This list of questions aims to delve into the Scout’s journey from Star to Life rank. The questions explore topics like the Scout Oath and Law, merit badges, leadership roles, and more. Reviewers should feel free to adapt these questions to fit the individual Scout’s experiences.

• What has been your most rewarding experience as a Star Scout?
• Which of your merit badges did you enjoy the most? Why?
• Tell us about the experience of teaching another Scout using the Teaching EDGE method. What did you learn from it?
• What service project did you participate in? How do you think this project helped improve the community?
• How have you contributed to conservation efforts through your service projects?
• What have you learned from your leadership roles within the troop?
• Describe a time when you have taken on a leadership role and effectively guided others towards achieving a common goal. How did you handle any challenges that arose during this experience?
• Can you share an example of how you applied the Scout Oath and Scout Law in a real-life situation?
• Is there a specific skill or lesson you’ve learned in Scouting that you think will be valuable later in life?
• Describe a time when you have faced adversity or a difficult situation in Scouting and how you overcame it, demonstrating your resilience and problem-solving abilities.
• What is your plan for advancing from Life to Eagle Scout?

These questions are designed to assess the Scout’s understanding, leadership skills, and commitment to the Scout Oath and Law on their path to the Life rank. Be sure to adjust the questions based on the specific experiences and accomplishments of each Scout.

Eagle Scout Board of Review Questions

See the Eagle Scout requirements

The Eagle Scout Board of Review will normally be conducted outside of the troop. But it is not unusual for troops to help the candidates prepare by having a practice BOR beforehand. Usually these are conducted by more experienced members of the troop committee.

• What is the most useful thing you learned in Scouting?
• Can you explain how you have demonstrated leadership within your troop and community as a Life Scout? Provide specific examples.
• How have you grown as a leader during your time in Scouting?
• Describe a time when you faced a significant challenge or obstacle during your Scouting journey. How did you overcome it, and what did you learn from the experience?
• What was the most challenging part of your Scouting experience? How did you handle it?
• Discuss the impact of your Eagle Scout service project on your community. How did you plan and execute the project, and what were the outcomes?
• Explain how you have lived the principles of the Scout Oath and Law in your everyday life, both within and outside of Scouting.
• Share an example of how you have mentored and inspired younger Scouts in your troop. How have you helped them grow and develop as individuals?
• Discuss your future goals as an Eagle Scout and how you plan to continue your involvement in Scouting and service to others.
• Reflect on your Scouting journey and the lessons you have learned along the way. How has Scouting shaped your character and prepared you for future challenges?
• Explain the significance of the Eagle Scout rank and what it means to you personally.

These questions will help evaluate the candidate’s leadership abilities, character development, and commitment to the ideals of Scouting. It is important to tailor these questions to the individual candidate’s experiences and achievements.  Bryan on Scouting published an article, 20 Questions to Ask at Your Next Eagle Board of Review which also has a good list of examples.

Readers, what are your favorite questions to ask at a Board of Review? Add them to the comments below.

What is the purpose of a Board of Review questions?

The aim of a Board of Review questions is to assess a Scout’s understanding and application of the skills and knowledge they’ve gained.

How many Board of Review questions are usually asked?

The number of Board of Review questions can vary, but generally, there are about 5 to 10 questions during a review.

Who comes up with the Board of Review questions?

Usually, the review board members prepare the Board of Review questions, sometimes in consultation with the Scoutmaster.

Are Board of Review questions the same for all ranks?

No, Board of Review questions are usually tailored to the rank for which the Scout is being reviewed.

What are some recommended types of Board of Review questions?

Ask open-ended questions that encourage the Scout to share their experiences and thoughts. For example, ask them to describe what they did to fulfill specific requirements or inquire about their Scouting experiences and challenges.

How can Board of Review questions help us learn about the Scout’s future goals in Scouting?

Inquire about the Scout’s aspirations within the troop. Ask them what they see themselves doing in the troop next year or if they have considered taking on positions of responsibility.

Can Board of Review questions be used to gather feedback on the troop program?

Absolutely! A BOR is an opportunity to learn about the Scout’s thoughts on the troop program. You can ask if they have any ideas for campouts or activities, what they’d like to learn more about, or how they think the troop can be improved.

Are there sample Board of Review questions for each rank?

Yes, there are sample Board of Review questions on this page that can guide your Board of Review for different ranks, such as Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle Scout. These questions focus on the requirements and experiences specific to each rank.

Are Board of Review questions open-ended or specific?

Questions can be both. Open-ended Board of Review questions are usually aimed at understanding the Scout’s experience and learning, while specific Board of Review questions may assess the Scout’s experience during a particular activity.

How long does a Scout have to answer each of the Board of Review questions?

There’s no strict time limit, but answers to the Board of Review questions are generally expected to be concise and to the point.

Can a Scout refuse to answer one of the Board of Review questions?

A Scout can request clarification or choose not to answer one of the Board of Review questions, but refusal could impact the board’s assessment.

What happens if a Scout doesn’t know the answer to one of the Board of Review questions?

Not knowing an answer to one of the Board of Review questions isn’t necessarily a failure, but it may lead to further discussion or even a suggestion for additional learning before progressing to the next rank.

The Scout Law

As Scouts progress through their journey in Scouts BSA, they will encounter various Board of Review (BOR) processes. These BORs serve as important milestones in a Scout’s advancement and provide an opportunity for them to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and growth within the program. Most importantly, they allow the Scout an opportunity to think about how they live the Scout Law every day.