You’ve made it to the home stretch of the Communication merit badge! If Part 1 was about learning to listen, speak, and persuade, Part 2 is where you prove you can teach, write, and lead an event from start to finish. These are the skills that separate a Scout who can talk from a Scout who can actually get things done.
Think about it: every time you teach a younger Scout how to tie a knot, write a troop email, or MC a Court of Honor, you’re using the exact skills this badge is built around. Requirements 6-9 will give you hands-on practice in all of them, and by the end, you’ll have earned one of the most practical Eagle-required badges out there. 🙂
If you haven’t already, make sure to finish Part 1 (Requirements 1-5) first. That guide covers communication activities, persuasion, public speaking, interviewing, and active listening at a public meeting.
If you have other Eagle-required merit badges to earn, I’d recommend checking out my Difficulty Ranking Guide to Every Eagle-required Badge. There, you’ll also find the links to my other merit badge guides, as well as a description and summary of each badge’s requirements. I’m certain this resource will be helpful to Scouts on their road to Eagle!
Communication Merit Badge Requirements (Part 2)
- With your counselor’s approval, develop a plan to teach a skill or inform someone about something. Prepare teaching aids for your plan. Carry out your plan. With your counselor, determine whether the person has learned what you intended.
- Do ONE of the following:
- 7a) Write to the editor of a magazine or your local newspaper to express your opinion or share information on any subject you choose. Send your message by fax, email, or regular mail.
- 7b) Create a webpage or blog of special interest to you (for instance, your troop or crew, a hobby, or a sport). Include at least three articles or entries and one photograph or illustration, and one link to some other webpage or blog that would be helpful to someone who visits the webpage or blog you have created. Note: It is not necessary to post your webpage or blog to the internet, but if you decide to do so, you must first share it with your parent or guardian and counselor and get their permission.
- 7c) Use desktop publishing to produce a newsletter, brochure, flyer, or other printed material for your troop or crew, class at school, or other group. Include at least one article and one photograph or illustration.
- Plan a troop or crew court of honor, campfire program, or an interfaith worship service. Have the patrol leaders’ council approve it, then write the script and prepare the program. Serve as master of ceremonies.
- Find out about three career opportunities in communication. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.
Teaching and the EDGE Method
6) With your counselor’s approval, develop a plan to teach a skill or inform someone about something. Prepare teaching aids for your plan. Carry out your plan. With your counselor, determine whether the person has learned what you intended.
If you’ve ever watched a Scoutmaster try to explain a lashing to a group of restless Tenderfoots, you know that teaching is its own kind of communication challenge. This requirement asks you to step into that role: develop a lesson plan, create teaching aids, deliver the lesson, and then check whether your student actually learned what you taught.
When I completed this requirement, I used the EDGE method to teach first aid skills to my patrol. I’d recommend that you teach a skill to your troop as well, bringing along props to help guide them through a hands-on learning process. The EDGE method stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable, and it’s the teaching framework used throughout Scouting.
Here’s a breakdown of each step in the EDGE method:
| Step | What You Do | Example (Teaching a Bowline Knot) |
|---|---|---|
| Explain | Tell the learner what the skill is, why it matters, and how it works | “A bowline creates a fixed loop that won’t slip. It’s essential for rescue and sailing.” |
| Demonstrate | Show the skill step-by-step while explaining what you’re doing | Slowly tie the knot while narrating: “Make a small loop, pass the end through…” |
| Guide | Have the learner try the skill while you coach and correct | Watch them tie it and offer tips: “Good, now pull the standing end tighter.” |
| Enable | Step back and let the learner perform the skill independently | Have them tie three bowlines without help. If they can, they’ve learned it! |
For a quick visual walkthrough of the EDGE method in action, check out this short video (2:07):
Now that you understand the framework, you’ll need to develop a teaching plan. Here’s a template you can follow:
| Planning Element | Your Plan |
|---|---|
| Skill to Teach | What specific skill or topic will you cover? |
| Audience | Who will you teach? (patrol, younger Scouts, family members) |
| Goal | What should the learner be able to do after your lesson? |
| Teaching Aids | What props, handouts, or visual aids will you bring? |
| Time Needed | How long will the lesson take? (aim for 10-20 minutes) |
| Assessment | How will you verify the person learned what you intended? |
If you need inspiration on what to teach, here are a few skills that work great:
- How to tie the 7 basic Scouting knots for First Class rank
- How to set up a tent properly
- How to perform different types of first aid
- How to earn the Fingerprinting merit badge (Awesome and EASY)
- How to play a sport or fun Scout game
- How to earn your Totin/Fireman/Cyber chip
After you’ve finished teaching, ask your group to demonstrate the skill without assistance. If they’re able to do it without your help, that means you’ve succeeded. If not, use their mistake as a learning moment, correct them, and then have them try again! 🙂
Scout Tip: For more help with using and teaching the BSA EDGE method, check out my detailed EDGE method article! The EDGE method is used throughout Scouting. From teaching at merit badge clinics to training new patrol leaders, mastering it now will pay off in future leadership positions like SPL or Troop Guide.
Written Communication
7) Do ONE of the following:
You only need to complete ONE of the three options below (7a, 7b, or 7c). Each option requires you to create a written communication piece. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Option | What You’ll Create | Best For Scouts Who… | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7a) Letter to the Editor | A letter expressing your opinion on a topic, sent to a newspaper or magazine | Have strong opinions and want a quick project | Easiest |
| 7b) Webpage or Blog | A website or blog with 3+ articles, 1 photo, and 1 external link | Enjoy technology and want a creative project | Most work |
| 7c) Newsletter/Brochure | A printed publication with at least 1 article and 1 photo/illustration | Like design and want something hands-on | Moderate |
No matter which option you choose, you’ll need to translate your ideas into clear, effective writing. Here are four essential rules to keep in mind:
- Write Succinctly: Get to the point. Use fewer words whenever possible.
- Simplify Language: Avoid using ‘big’ words unnecessarily.
- Remove Jargon and technical terms: Make your writing understandable to all readers. Keep things simple.
- Avoid Redundancy: If your sentence would remain the same after removing a word, that word is considered redundant. Cut it!
For a deeper dive into these writing principles, watch this video (7:04). Skip to (2:27) if you’d like to jump straight into the writing advice.
7a) Write to the editor of a magazine or your local newspaper to express your opinion or share information on any subject you choose. Send your message by fax, email, or regular mail.
Requirement 7a will likely be the easiest option. If you decide to write a letter to an editor, keep in mind that less is more. I’d recommend keeping your letter’s length below 3 paragraphs. Most newspapers and magazines have an email address for letters to the editor listed on their website or in their print edition.
Here’s a simple structure for your letter:
- Opening: State the issue you’re writing about and why it matters to you.
- Body: Share your opinion with 2-3 supporting reasons or facts. Use specific examples.
- Closing: Summarize your point and suggest an action or solution. Sign your name.
Pick a topic you genuinely care about. It could be a local issue (like a new park being built), a school topic, or even something related to Scouting. Your passion for the topic will make your writing more compelling and authentic.
7b) Create a webpage or blog of special interest to you (for instance, your troop or crew, a hobby, or a sport). Include at least three articles or entries and one photograph or illustration, and one link to some other webpage or blog that would be helpful to someone who visits the webpage or blog you have created.
If you enjoy technology, creating a blog or webpage is a rewarding option. Free platforms like Google Sites, WordPress.com, or Blogger make it easy to get started without any coding knowledge. Remember, you don’t have to post it online, but if you do, get your parent’s and counselor’s permission first.
Your blog or webpage needs to include:
- At least 3 articles or entries on your chosen topic
- At least 1 photograph or illustration
- At least 1 link to another helpful webpage or blog
Choose a topic you know well and are excited to write about. A troop blog, a guide to your favorite hobby, or a fan page for a sport you play are all great options. This project is a great way to combine your communication skills with your creativity and personal interests.
7c) Use desktop publishing to produce a newsletter, brochure, flyer, or other printed material for your troop or crew, class at school, or other group. Include at least one article and one photograph or illustration.
This option combines writing with visual design. You can use free tools like Google Docs, Canva, or Microsoft Publisher to create a professional-looking publication. A troop newsletter is a great choice because your Scoutmaster and fellow Scouts will actually use it!
Ideas for your newsletter or brochure:
- Troop newsletter: Upcoming events, a recap of a recent campout, a spotlight on a Scout who earned a rank or Eagle project
- Event flyer: Promote a fundraiser, service project, or campout with key details and a call to action
- Informational brochure: Create a guide about your troop for recruiting new members at school or community events
By keeping these writing tips in mind when completing requirement 7, you’ll be able to communicate your message clearly and professionally. Even after earning your Communication merit badge, keep trying to improve your writing. Concise and effective communication is one of the most useful skills you can build! 🙂
Event Planning and Public Speaking
8) Plan a troop or crew court of honor, campfire program, or an interfaith worship service. Have the patrol leaders’ council approve it, then write the script and prepare the program. Serve as master of ceremonies.
This requirement puts all of your communication skills to the test. You’ll plan an event, write a script, get it approved by the PLC, and then serve as the MC (master of ceremonies). To complete this requirement, I planned and facilitated a troop Court of Honor. A Court of Honor will likely be the easiest option for you as well, since most troops hold them regularly.
Most troops already have a long-standing Court of Honor tradition. I’d recommend making slight modifications to the last-used script when preparing your own program. Talk to the Scout who planned the last one. They’ll have advice on what worked and what they’d change.
Here’s a step-by-step process for planning your event:
- Choose your event type: Court of Honor, campfire program, or interfaith worship service. Talk to your Scoutmaster about what’s coming up.
- Review past programs: Ask the Scout who planned the last event for their script and advice.
- Write your script: Include an opening, transitions between segments, introductions for speakers or award recipients, and a closing.
- Prepare your program: Create a printed program or agenda that attendees can follow along with.
- Get PLC approval: Present your plan to the Patrol Leaders’ Council for feedback and official approval.
- Practice: Rehearse your MC role at least twice. Know your script well enough that you can look up from it.
If you’re planning a Court of Honor, here’s a typical program flow:
| Program Element | Duration | MC Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Ceremony | 5 min | Welcome guests, lead Pledge of Allegiance, introduce the event |
| Scoutmaster’s Minute | 3 min | Introduce the Scoutmaster to share a brief message |
| Rank Advancements | 10-15 min | Call up each Scout, announce their rank, lead applause |
| Merit Badge Awards | 10 min | Announce badges earned, call up recipients |
| Special Awards | 5-10 min | Present any special recognitions (Eagle, service awards) |
| Guest Speaker | 5-10 min | Introduce the guest speaker with a brief background |
| Closing Ceremony | 5 min | Thank attendees, announce upcoming events, lead closing |
This TED-Ed video is also worth watching for tips on making a great first impression as a host:
Scout Tip: If you’d like a full outline for creating your Court of Honor program from scratch, check out my Failsafe Structure For Running An Exceptional Court Of Honor! You can also find my timeline for preparing an Eagle Court of Honor, which can be adapted into a regular troop ceremony.
Tips for being a great MC:
- Speak clearly and project your voice. You’re the guide for the entire event, so everyone needs to hear you.
- Keep the energy up. Smile, make eye contact, and show enthusiasm between segments.
- Be prepared for surprises. A speaker might run long or a microphone might not work. Stay calm and adapt.
- Thank people by name. Acknowledging individuals makes the event feel personal and professional.
- Practice your transitions. The smoothest MCs are the ones who can move naturally between program segments without awkward pauses.
By serving as the master of ceremonies, you’ll have a great opportunity to practice your communication skills and show confidence when publicly speaking. This is one of those requirements that might feel intimidating beforehand, but you’ll feel awesome about once you’ve done it. 😀
Communication Careers
9) Find out about three career opportunities in communication. Pick one and find out the education, training, and experience required for this profession. Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might interest you.
Communication skills are valuable in nearly every career, but some professions are built entirely around them. To help you get started, I’ll cover three career options below, then share a broader table of communication careers for additional research.
1. Content Creator / YouTuber:
I’m sure you already know what a YouTuber does! Content creators produce unique video, audio, or written content that entertains, informs, and engages their viewers. However, building a career on YouTube isn’t easy. Becoming a profitable creator requires persistence, clear communication skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Success on YouTube isn’t something that can be taught in schools. In fact, the vast majority of creators are unable to make any money from their channels. However, with persistence and luck, some YouTubers are able to earn a full-time living by recommending products and working with brands who sponsor their videos! 🙂
2. Human Resources Specialist:
Within companies, human resources specialists help to recruit personnel, onboard new employees, develop training programs, and communicate company policies clearly. Typically, most individuals in HR have earned at least a bachelor’s degree in a subject like communications or business.
In addition to those duties, HR specialists must also be skilled at resolving conflicts and explaining company policies in a way that everyone can understand. On the spot, they often must be able to accurately judge a person’s character and reach mutually beneficial agreements, which is why strong communication skills are non-negotiable in this field.
HR specialists are often tasked with evaluating resumes and deciding whom to interview. That means they throw out most applications from people who apply! Are you listing your Scouting experience effectively on your own resume or college apps?
3. Sales Representative:
For a salesperson to succeed, they’ll need to skillfully communicate with customers and build rapport. To be hired as a salesperson, most people will either need some experience in small-scale sales or a college degree. There are different types of sales roles, ranging from retail sales in stores to enterprise sales between companies.
The main goal of a salesperson is to persuade customers to take an interest in their product. Sound familiar? It’s basically requirement 2b in real life! Most salespeople are paid by commission, meaning the more they sell, the higher their income. As a salesperson, you can improve your skills and earn more by gaining experience over time or by reading books on sales.
Tip: The Salesmanship merit badge is one of the 7 most interesting merit badges that I recommend Scouts earn independently. If you enjoyed the persuasion skills from requirement 2, you’ll love it!
Here’s a broader table of communication careers to help with your research:
| Career | What They Do | Education Needed | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journalist / Reporter | Research, write, and present news stories for print, TV, radio, or online media | Bachelor’s in journalism or communications | ~$50,000/year |
| Public Relations Specialist | Manage the public image of organizations by writing press releases and organizing media events | Bachelor’s in PR, communications, or related field | ~$67,000/year |
| Marketing Manager | Plan campaigns to promote products or services, analyze market trends, and manage brand messaging | Bachelor’s in marketing, communications, or business | ~$140,000/year |
| Speech-Language Pathologist | Help people overcome communication disorders related to speech, language, and swallowing | Master’s in speech-language pathology | ~$84,000/year |
Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Once you’ve picked a career that interests you, here’s what to research and discuss with your counselor:
- Education: What degree or training is typically needed?
- Experience: What entry-level positions lead to this career? Are internships available?
- Skills: What communication skills are most important for this role?
- Why it interests you: How does this career connect to your strengths, values, or hobbies?
Congrats on Earning the Communication Merit Badge!
Awesome job making it through all of these requirements! Communication is one of the more challenging Eagle-required merit badges, but it teaches you skills that you’ll use for a lifetime. By developing your public speaking, concise writing, EDGE teaching, and event planning skills, you’ll one day become a capable and respected leader. 😀
If you missed any requirements from Part 1, click here to go back to Part 1 (Requirements 1-5).
Thanks for improving our planet through your involvement in Scouting! If you’ve found this guide helpful, I’ve also written other merit badge walkthroughs that you can check out here. Also, if you’re looking for a fun badge to earn next, check out my list of the 7 most interesting merit badges! Check ScoutSmarts often, because I’m constantly uploading new content for Scouts like you. Until next time, best of luck on your Scouting journey! 🙂