STEM

Activity Details

Setup:  We use digital devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones to work, shop, and play. Technology is such a big part of our lives that we don’t usually stop to think about it.

Time needed: 15 minutes

Materials needed:

• Prepare Ahead: Print and cut the Tech Scavenger Hunt Scenarios into strips

Activity:

First, think about what’s in your backpack. Do you carry a lot of stuff? Maybe you have some books, some colored pencils, or a calculator? When you’re at school, why do you think it’s important to keep your belongings safe? How do you do it?

Then, go around your house and find objects for each of the Tech Scavenger Hunt Scenarios. Try to find an object for each of the scenarios, listed on the strips and below:

• This is how I see in the dark.
• This is how I add up numbers.
• This is where I keep my pictures.
• This is where I write my thoughts and feelings.
• This is where I take notes for school.
• This is how I track where everyone lives.
• This is how I know what I’m doing every day.
• This is what I listen to.
• This is what I watch.

What did you find? Were you able to find something that helps you with each task?

If you’re stumped on a scenario, see if you can find the object listed for each task below:

• This is how I see in the dark: flashlight
• This is how I add up numbers: calculator
• This is where I keep my pictures: photo album
• This is where I write my thoughts and feelings: diary or journal
• This is where I take notes for school: notebook
• This is how I track where everyone lives: address book
• This is how I know what I’m doing every day: calendar
• This is what I listen to: CD
• This is what I watch: TV

Then, look at the objects and imagine if everything you just found lived on a device, like a tablet or smartphone. You might be surprised to know that they already do!

Have you ever seen your mom or dad use a phone to get directions? Or have you ever watched a movie on a tablet? In the past, you would have to carry a map with you, and at one point, you could only watch movies at home or in a movie theater. Now, it’s all there in one device!

What else can you think of that’s on a device?

It's amazing how a computer, smartphone, or tablet can carry all this important information and do important tasks for you! Since computers help us with important things, it’s also important to keep them safe. What are some ways you can do that? Check out the rest of the cybersecurity activities and find out!

Troop Leaders:  The instructions for all badge steps are available free of charge in your  Girl Scout Volunteer Toolkit.

Girl Scouts at Home activities have been adapted from existing Girl Scout programming and optimized for use at home during a period of social distancing.

Adapted from Step 1 of the Brownie Coding Basics badge. Contact your troop leader or your local Girl Scout council to become a Girl Scout member and learn all the requirements needed to earn the badge.