Life Skills

Activity Details

Time needed: 20-30 minutes

Materials needed: 

• Pen 
• Paper

Set-Up:  Public figures are influential people in their industry and in the world. They could be business leaders, actors, and hold government positions. Political leaders, such as mayors, governors, congressional leaders, presidents, prime ministers, often make speeches or statements on important issues. 

To get started, you will need access to the internet to find a video of a speech given by a public figure, and pen and paper for note taking and research.

Begin by investigating some public figures on a topic that has been making the headlines. Research websites on the topic, including news sites and videos of pre-recorded speeches, interviews or press conferences. You may consider watching the news as well.

After you’ve made your selection, jot down facts and figures being shared and note how they’re used to support the speaker’s views. 

Next, review your notes and begin your online investigation of the data shared through other sources. What were you most surprised to learn? What sources did you turn to? Why would you trust a source over another?

Note: Girls, volunteers and families are encouraged to take the time and space they need to adjust to this period of rapid change and uncertainty. When they’re ready, we’re here to support Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts to safely take action in their communities—whether it’s helping ensure kids are still getting the nourishment and enrichment they need out of school, responding to the possible ramifications of isolation during social distancing, adapting an existing project to positively impact local communities today, or something else entirely! 

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 2 of the Senior Truth Seeker badge. Purchase the Senior It's Your Planet Badge Activity Set to complete all the requirements needed to earn the badge.