Gumshoe

Before the meeting:

1. Using the information below, make a sample of a shoe impression.
2. Gather supplies.
3. Set up meeting space so Cub Scouts have an area to do their shoe print.

During the meeting:

1. Ask the Cub Scouts if they have ever walked outside in the snow and looked behind them? What did they see? Explain to Cub Scouts that just like our fingers have prints our shoes have prints. Law enforcement officers will look for shoe prints and will then make an impression. They can find the brand and size of the shoe. They can tell how tall the person is by measuring the length of the shoe. Today they will be looking more closely at their shoe impression. Show them your example.
2. Have each Cub Scout sit in a chair and place a piece of construction paper on the ground in front of them.
3. Give each Cub Scout a piece of chalk and have them liberally apply the chalk to the bottom of their shoe.
4. Have the Cub Scout stand on top of the piece of paper in front of them.
5. Have the Cub Scout sit back down and clean off their shoe with a baby wipe or damp cloth.
6. Let each Cub Scout look at their impression. Ask what do you notice? Do you see a shoe size? Is there a pattern? Is the bottom of your shoe the same as mine?

Tip: Combine this activity with requirement 1 “Solve the Mystery.”