blog for lesson 7

My audience in the lesson 7 essay about Girl Scouting was directed at Troop Leaders. The thesis was that councils across the nation are changing the curriculum to keep up with the times, adding edgy new characters to the Journey book, yet it will not change the focus of Girl Scouting in America. I gave 3 supporting reasons behind why leaders would wan to consider trying out the curriculum and the reason behind the council push. I think that some leaders could be swayed because of the research that I did and that I didn't report on peoples "feelings" and all the "hype" out there.

The first reason assures leaders that the program is the same just more upbeat. The times we live in are different that when leaders were girl scouts they realize this and many girls come to meetings with cell phones and gadgets once not available to kids. There is a new lingo and new problems in the world that we face. It is hard to face the problems of today with girl scouting of yesteryear. The principles are still the same, ceremonies are still the same, some of the workbooks are a little different.

The second reason adding edgy characters to the new books is a fun way to make girl scouting popular again and overcome the fact that girls drop out because they still want to be cool and not embarrassed of scouting. I think that leaders would value this because it is no fun teaching a group of girls new activities when they don't want to be there and are not excited about it. Girl Scouting ultimately needs to be fun.

Third understanding the intention that the new Journey program is only adding to what we have makes sense. It doesn't replace any badge book or handbook. In fact it is a great way to start off the girl scouting year or introduce new girls into the troop even more it is a great way for a new troop leader to get started. It is an overall introduction to girl scouting. Leaders may totally omit it or use it at their own convenience. It is just a tool for leaders. Leaders make or break their meetings by using the tools available, guiding activities that the girls want to do and by having fun.