Signs, Signals, and Codes

Description

The Signs, Signals and Codes merit badge covers a number of the nonverbal ways we communicate: emergency signaling, Morse code, American Sign Language, braille, trail signs, sports officiating hand signals, traffic signs, secret codes and more.

The latest merit badge pamphlet is available here:
https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Pamphlets/Signs%20Signals%20Codes_2025.pdf

The following items are prerequisites for the workshop:

#3 Do the following:
- (a) Describe what Morse code is and the various means by which it can be sent. Spell your first name using Morse code. Send or receive a message of six to 10 words using Morse code. Resource: https://justlearnmorsecode.com/ and https://www.arrl.org/learning-morse-code
- (b) Describe what American Sign Language (ASL) is and how it is used today. Spell your first name using American Sign Language. Send or receive a message of six to 10 words using ASL. Resource: https://www.handspeak.com
#4 Give your counselor a brief explanation about semaphore, why it is used, how it is used, and where it is used. Explain the difference between semaphore flags and nautical flags. Then do the following:
- (a) Spell your first name using semaphore. Send or receive a message of six to 10 words using semaphore. Resource: https://marinewaypoints.com/learn/flags/semaphore/semaphore.shtml
- (b) Using illustrations or photographs, identify 10 examples of nautical flags and discuss their importance. Resource: https://sailingfortuitous.com/spell-things-with-flags/
#7 On a Scout outing, lay out a trail for your patrol or troop to follow. Cover at least one mile in distance and use at least six different trail signs and markers. After the Scouts have completed the trail, follow the Leave No Trace Seven Principles and the Outdoor Code by replacing or returning trail markers to their original locations.