Requirement 1 (D)
Requirement
Communication
Track Communication Activities
Do ONE of the following:
Requirement
List as many ways as you can think of to communicate with others (face-to-face, by telephone, letter, email, text messages, social media, and so on). For each type of communication, discuss with your counselor an instance when that method might not be appropriate or effective.
Many ways to communicate, but what is appropriate or effective for the situation?
Face-to-Face
Face-to-face communication is a powerful way we share our thoughts, feelings, and ideas using both spoken language and nonverbal cues. Much of what we communicate in person happens without words through facial expressions, gestures, posture, and tone of voice, making face-to-face communication necessary for picking up the full meaning of many interactions.
Telephone
Phone calls are great for quick chats, making plans, or handling troop business—especially for those who communicate better by speaking. However, they’re not ideal for sharing detailed or visual information, and people aren’t always available to answer.
In today’s digital world, you can talk online using VoIP or make video calls with webcams and smart devices. If you leave a voicemail, speak clearly and keep it brief.
Formal Letters
We use formal letters to communicate for school or business purposes, or to write recommendations. When you apply for an internship, a camp, or a job, you may have to write a formal letter asking for admission or permission to attend or to state your interest. If you are chosen for an award or honored for your talents, write a formal letter thanking the organization. Letters to the editor of a newspaper or magazine, even those sent by email, also require a formal tone.
Email
Email, short for “electronic mail,” has transformed how we communicate. Messages are sent instantly and can include attachments like photos, videos, or documents. You can send email worldwide and store or forward messages easily.
Because email is so quick and convenient, people often send messages without reviewing them. Always check your email for clarity, spelling, grammar, and tone. Mistakes can make you seem careless or disrespectful.
Text Message
Sometimes called “texting,” this form of communication involves sending short messages, usually by cellphone. Texting is good for quick communication, especially when phone calls might be disruptive or impractical. It is also useful for leaving a message when a person can’t take your call. Remember that your cellphone provider may charge a fee for texting.
Social Media
Social media are forms of electronic communication through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content (such as videos).
Communication in Action: Scenario Breakdown and End Result Analysis
Defining Conversation Tone
Does the written communication lack emotional tone? If so, is the conversation intended to be personal or professional?
A Scout sends an email to their troop leader thanking them for setting up a well-organized camping trip.
Emailed Message:
“Thank you for coordinating the trip. Everything went smoothly.”
Analysis:
The message is clear and concise but lacks an emotional tone. It does not express genuine appreciation or enthusiasm.
Note: All private online communications—such as texting, phone calls, chats, instant messages, and similar methods—must include another registered adult leader or a parent. One‑on‑one electronic communication between a youth and an adult is not permitted.
Communicating When Time Matters
Will the communication result in a delayed response, or could it lead to misunderstanding? If the information is urgent, what other methods could be used?
A Scout needs to inform their troop leader that the meeting location has changed last minute due to weather.
Message sent via text:
“Change of plans. Meet at the community center instead.”
Analysis:
The leader may not see the message in time, resulting in a delayed response. The message is too brief and lacks context, which can lead to misunderstanding.
Note: All private online communications—such as texting, phone calls, chats, instant messages, and similar methods—must include another registered adult leader or a parent. One‑on‑one electronic communication between a youth and an adult is not permitted.
Is This Information Confidential?
Does the communication raise privacy concerns? If so, should this information be written down?
A Scout texts their troop leader:
Text Message Sent:
“I won’t be at the hike tomorrow. I had a medical procedure and need a few days to recover.”
Analysis:
The message contains personal health information, which may not be appropriate to share over text.Text messages are not always secure and could be seen by others if the phone is shared or lost.
Note: All private online communications—such as texting, phone calls, chats, instant messages, and similar methods—must include another registered adult leader or a parent. One‑on‑one electronic communication between a youth and an adult is not permitted.
Communication Across Cultures & Generations
Is the chosen method of communication culturally appropriate, or does it reflect generational differences in communication preferences?
A Scout sends a text to their troop’s committee chair (an older adult):
Text Message Sent:
“Hey, just confirming the meeting time. LMK if it’s still 6.”
Analysis:
The message uses abbreviations and a casual tone that may be unclear or seem informal to someone from an older generation.The committee chair may prefer phone calls or formal emails, which feel clearer and more respectful.
Note: All private online communications—such as texting, phone calls, chats, instant messages, and similar methods—must include another registered adult leader or a parent. One‑on‑one electronic communication between a youth and an adult is not permitted.
Did You Know:
Penmanship: A Disappearing Art
In the past, people wrote letters by hand. Now we are more likely to send an email or a text message. Few people today have neat handwriting that is also beautiful. Practice your handwriting so that anyone can read it.
Now that you have identified the different methods of communicating,
create a visual aid that represents you and present it to your counselor.
