Wednesday, November 1, 2023

Why Probing Questions are Necessary for Eagle Service Projects



In the Eagle Scout Service Workbook on page 4 it says:

“Questioning and probing for their understanding of the project, the proposal, and what is to be done, shall be conducted in a helpful, friendly, courteous, and kindhearted manner. We will respect the Scout’s dignity. Scouts will be allowed, if they choose, to have a parent, unit leader, or other adult present as an observer at any time while they are discussing their proposal or project with someone who is reviewing it.”

Also, on page 2 it reads under The Project Plan:

“Your project plan can also be important in showing your Eagle Scout board of review 
that you have planned and developed your project as required.”


The questions the unit leaders, district and council ask are to help the scout be successful with their project. Everything they have been working on up to this point in Scouting leads to the Eagle Scout service project. Merit Badges like communication, personal management, and having scout leadership roles all prepare them in leading a group of volunteers in serving the community with the Eagle Scout service project they have chosen.

The questions asked should be helpful for the scout in doing the following:
  1. Help them know their project meets the requirements of an Eagle Scout Project
  2. Helps the scout be forward thinking in seeing all aspects of the project, not just getting the job done. That means, having all materials, supplies, tools, and meeting safety issues while doing their project. The workbook helps scouts think through this process by filling out all sections
  3. Questions help scouts develop their Eagle Project in depth by seeing phases that need to take place in an orderly manner to be effective. It teaches them how to plan large projects and see them be successful in a safe framework of scouting
  4. These probing questions also help the scouts work through problems that might arise during the project. With guidance of adult leaders, the scout can put into place safety help they might have not seen
We hope this information is helpful to Eagle Scout coaches, scoutmaster and parents who help guide the scouts through the Eagle Scout process.