Ethics Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Ethics Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA serves as a crucial guide for young scouts as they navigate the complexities of ethical and moral decision-making. Rooted in the principles of the Scout Oath and Scout Law, this program places a strong emphasis on ethics as the moral principles that shape an individual’s or group’s behavior. It encourages scouts to delve into the meaning of ethics and morality, particularly when faced with differing values among individuals. While these discussions may not always yield definitive answers, they offer valuable insights into the perspectives of others.

The scope of this program extends beyond scouting activities, encompassing various aspects of life such as politics, business, and religion. It equips scouts with the necessary tools to navigate ethical and moral dilemmas throughout their lives. By engaging in these discussions, scouts develop a deeper understanding of the importance of ethical decision-making and the impact it has on themselves and others.

In addition to its focus on ethics, the Ethics Troop Program Feature is part of a broader framework of Scouts BSA troop program features. These features provide youth leaders with a structured approach to planning activities for a month, centered around a specific skill or theme. By incorporating a theme for each month, youth leaders can maintain focus during planning sessions and ensure the program remains engaging for scouts. Each program feature offers a range of ideas for meetings, catering to the needs of both younger and older scouts with varying levels of instruction and challenges.

Ethics is a fundamental aspect of the Ethics Troop Program Feature in Scouts BSA. It encompasses the study of values and how one should live, involving systematic and rational reflection on behavior. Ethics is closely tied to values, which serve as the standards or ideals that guide life and decision-making. It is also connected to morals, which are the practical applications of ethical principles.

The Ethics Troop Program Feature places a strong emphasis on understanding ethical controversies. These controversies arise from complex situations where different principles and values can lead to varied perspectives. Engaging in discussions about these controversies is crucial for personal growth. It encourages scouts to reflect on diverse teachings and viewpoints, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for different sides of an argument.

Furthermore, these discussions help scouts manage cognitive dissonance when faced with evidence that challenges their core beliefs. By exploring ethical controversies, scouts develop the skills to navigate conflicting values and make informed decisions.

The Ethics Troop Program Feature recognizes the value of conducting these ethical discussions as single activities or exploring them in depth over several meetings. This approach allows scouts to delve into ethical standards and dilemmas that are relevant to their interests and experiences. By actively engaging in these discussions, scouts develop a strong foundation in ethical decision-making that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Group instruction for the Ethics Troop Program Feature focuses on four core areas: ethics, values, morals, and choice. To begin, it is beneficial to have an adult who deals with ethical issues, such as a doctor, lawyer, or religious leader, explain the definitions of ethics, values, and morals. This discussion can also delve into the sources for each individual’s moral code, highlighting the diverse influences that shape our ethical perspectives.

Next, it is important to explore the values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law. Displaying the Scout Oath and Scout Law, lead a discussion about what each point of the Law and Oath means. Encourage scouts to reflect on how these values guide their decision-making and lead to ethical choices in their daily lives.

Applied ethics is another crucial topic to cover. Discuss how ethics are applied in different professions, such as sports, politics, medicine, education, journalism, and more. By comparing and contrasting ethical considerations in various fields, scouts gain a deeper understanding of how ethics play a role in different contexts.

Lastly, introduce the concept of situational ethics. This involves evaluating an act ethically by taking into account the particular context in which it occurs, rather than judging it based on absolute moral standards. Engage scouts in a discussion about how laws do or don’t consider situational ethics, and explore the complexities of balancing ethical principles with legal frameworks.

By covering these group instructions in meetings, scouts develop a comprehensive understanding of ethics, values, morals, and choice, equipping them with the necessary tools to make informed and ethical decisions in their lives.

In this section, we will explore some skill instruction ideas for the Ethics troop program feature. These ideas will focus on the four basic areas of ethics, values, morals, and choice, providing scouts with practical activities to enhance their understanding and decision-making abilities. See the meeting plans for more details.

Ethics, Values, Morals, and Choice

One engaging activity to explore different viewpoints is the “Where Do You Stand?” game. Place signs or markers in a line down the middle of the room, ranging from “Strongly Agree” to “Strongly Disagree.” The senior patrol leader reads a statement, and each individual moves to the marker that represents their opinion. Sample statements could include topics like favorite food, sports preferences, or ethical dilemmas. Encourage patrols to discuss their answers on more serious topics and how they reached different conclusions.

The Values of the Scout Oath and Scout Law

Try the “Showing Our Values” activity for the Ethics Troop Program Feature. Each patrol chooses a card representing one point of the Scout Law and creates a sign that represents that value. Display all the signs and have the larger group vote on the best, most colorful, or most artistic representation. This activity fosters exploration of values and encourages scouts to reflect on the importance of each point of the Scout Law.

Applied Ethics

Introduce the Venturing ethical controversies vignettes. Each patrol discusses a chosen topic and presents their findings to the troop. These discussions can be used to explore ethical standards and dilemmas relevant to the interest area of the unit. Topics could include accepting gifts from suppliers, accepting second jobs as a police officer, or dealing with illegal actions from a boss. These activities encourage thought and discussion about ethical questions in an interesting and organized way.

The Law and Situational Ethics

Create a chart with columns labeled “Principle,” “The Law,” “Exceptions,” and “Alternatives.” Brainstorm with patrols what should go in each column for various topics, such as stealing, cheating, or telling the truth. Discuss whether the laws align with ethical principles and whether one principle can trump another. This activity encourages scouts to consider the complexities of ethical decision-making and the role of situational ethics.

These skill instruction ideas for the Ethics Troop Program Feature provide scouts with hands-on activities to deepen their understanding of ethics, values, morals, and choice. By engaging in these activities, scouts develop critical thinking skills and gain practical insights into ethical decision-making.

The Ethics troop program feature suggests two game and challenge ideas that can enhance scouts’ understanding of ethics and values. See the meeting plans for more details.

Balloon Bounce

This game is a fun and interactive way for scouts to learn about teamwork and cooperation. Each patrol or troop team is provided with an inflated balloon. The objective is for each team to keep their balloon in the air the longest by hitting it back and forth between the members. However, players are not allowed to catch or hold the balloon, but they can redirect the flight of other teams’ balloons.

A team is considered out if their balloon touches the floor or bursts. The team that successfully keeps their balloon in the air the longest wins. After the game, it is important to discuss how different people with different opinions need to work together, highlighting the importance of collaboration and understanding in ethical decision-making.

Showing Our Values

This activity encourages scouts to reflect on the values of the Scout Law and express them creatively. Each patrol chooses a card representing one point of the Scout Law and creates a sign that represents that value. The cards should be prepared before the game, and each patrol is provided with a poster board and art supplies to create their sign. Once the signs are completed, they are displayed, and the larger group votes on the best, most colorful, or most artistic representation.

This activity fosters exploration of values and encourages scouts to reflect on the importance of each point of the Scout Law. The art contest aspect of the activity is a bonus, as the main focus is on the discussion and understanding of values.

These game and challenge ideas for the Ethics Troop Program Feature provide scouts with engaging and interactive activities that reinforce the concepts of teamwork, collaboration, and values. By participating in these activities, scouts not only have fun but also develop important skills and insights into ethical decision-making.

The main event of the Ethics troop program feature for Scouts BSA offers three different options based on experience level: Essential, Challenging, or Advanced. Each option provides scouts with a unique and engaging experience that further develops their understanding of ethics and values. See the Main Event planner for more details.

Essential: A Day of Ethical Controversy

This event is designed to stimulate critical thinking and debate on ethical dilemmas. Scouts are grouped together and tasked with examining various ethical controversies, discussing and defending different viewpoints, and attempting to reach a consensus. Throughout the process, scouts learn about both sides of an issue, present their positions, and then reverse roles to understand opposing viewpoints. The aim of this event is to foster respect for diverse opinions and to practice reaching common ground. To ensure a balanced experience, the day also includes a group activity that combines serious discussion with fun and cooperative experiences. Safety and respect are emphasized throughout the event.

Challenging: Field Trip of Ethics

During this event, scouts arrange visits to institutions such as courthouses, hospitals, or government buildings to engage with individuals responsible for the institution’s ethical practices. The visit includes discussions on pertinent ethical issues and a tour of the facility, providing practical insights into how ethics are applied in various professional settings. If the trip includes an overnight stay, scouts are expected to bring camping equipment and supplies. Emphasis is placed on following the “Guide to Safe Scouting” policies and using the buddy system for safety during the visit. To conclude the event, scouts are encouraged to write thank-you notes to the facility representatives, fostering a sense of gratitude and respect.

Advanced: Ethics Conference

This event involves organizing and hosting a conference for youth on ethics, inviting experts to discuss various topics. The conference includes debates, presentations, and forums aimed at reaching a consensus on ethical issues. Afterward, participants are encouraged to engage in civic action, such as presenting their findings to public officials or legislative bodies. The event not only focuses on the exchange of ideas but also includes logistical aspects such as setting an agenda, serving lunch, and the thoughtful gesture of sending thank-you notes to presenters. This comprehensive approach to exploring and understanding ethics in society encapsulates the Advanced level experience.

These main event options provide scouts with valuable opportunities to further develop their ethical decision-making skills. Whether engaging in critical thinking and debate, visiting institutions to gain practical insights, or organizing and hosting an ethics conference, scouts are challenged to think deeply about ethical issues and engage with diverse perspectives. By participating in these main events, scouts gain a deeper understanding of ethics and values, preparing them to make informed and ethical decisions in their lives.

What is the Ethics troop program feature?

The Ethics troop program feature is a specialized program designed to help Scouts BSA members develop a deeper understanding of ethics and values. It offers a range of activities and events that challenge scouts to think critically, engage in ethical debates, and explore diverse perspectives.

Who can participate in the Ethics troop program feature?

The Ethics troop program feature is open to all Scouts BSA members. It is designed to be flexible and can be adapted to suit the needs and interests of scouts at different experience levels.

How can scouts benefit from participating in the Ethics troop program feature?

Participating in the Ethics troop program feature provides scouts with valuable opportunities to develop their ethical decision-making skills. By engaging in critical thinking and exploring ethical controversies, scouts gain a deeper understanding of ethics and values. These skills are essential for making informed and ethical decisions in their lives.

Are there any prerequisites for participating in the Ethics troop program feature?

There are no specific prerequisites for participating in the Ethics troop program feature. However, scouts are encouraged to have a basic understanding of the Scout Oath and Law, as these principles form the foundation of ethical behavior within the Scouts BSA program.

Can the Ethics troop program feature be customized to suit the needs of individual troops?

Yes, the Ethics troop program feature can be customized to suit the needs and interests of individual troops. Scout leaders have the flexibility to adapt the program based on the age, experience level, and interests of their scouts. They can choose from a range of skills instruction ideas, game and challenge ideas, and main event options to create a program that best meets the needs of their troop.

Can the Ethics troop program feature be integrated with other program features?

Yes, the Ethics troop program feature can be integrated with other program features to create a more comprehensive and well-rounded scouting experience. Scout leaders can explore connections between ethics and other program features, such as Citizenship, Leadership, or Outdoor Skills, to provide scouts with a holistic understanding of ethical decision-making in different contexts.

The Ethics troop program feature for Scouts BSA offers a unique and engaging opportunity for scouts to develop their understanding of ethics and values. By participating in a range of activities, discussions, and events, scouts can enhance their critical thinking skills, explore ethical controversies, and engage with diverse perspectives. The program can be customized to suit the needs of individual troops and provides scouts with valuable experiences that prepare them to make informed and ethical decisions in their lives.

BSA Troop Program Features Video

The Ethics troop program feature for Scouts BSA provides a unique and engaging opportunity for scouts to develop their understanding of ethics and values. Through a range of activities, discussions, and events, scouts are challenged to think critically, explore ethical controversies, and engage with diverse perspectives. The program offers three main event options: “A Day of Ethical Controversy” for scouts at the Essential level, “Field Trip of Ethics” for those seeking a more challenging experience, and the “Ethics Conference” for scouts at the Advanced level. Each option provides scouts with valuable opportunities to further develop their ethical decision-making skills.

Scout leaders have the flexibility to customize the program to suit the needs and interests of their troop, ensuring a tailored experience for each scout. Safety is prioritized during the main events, with leaders following the “Guide to Safe Scouting” policies and implementing appropriate safety measures. While the Ethics troop program feature does not have specific badges or awards, scouts can earn recognition for their participation and achievements through the Scouts BSA advancement program.

In conclusion, the Ethics troop program feature equips scouts with the necessary skills and knowledge to make informed and ethical decisions in their lives. By actively engaging in the program, scouts develop critical thinking skills, explore ethical controversies, and learn to respect diverse opinions. To learn more about the Ethics troop program feature, visit the BSA website for additional information and resources.