Streszczenie "Scouting for boys" po angielsku.

Abstract of “Scouting for boys” by Robert Baden-Powell

In the Polish version of book in the beginning we can see the text titled “To polish reader” in which we can read about first appearance of this book in Poland. It emphasize role of Polish scouts during the war and also compares Polish and English methodology, law and promise.

In preface author shortly describes history of Scouting and fast spread of movement around the world. Next he brings closer organization and its goals.

In the first chapter are contained hints for scoutmasters about the beginning of boy’s scouting. Here is contained narrative “Kim” wrote by R. Kipling. Role of boys in Mafeking is showed here and also informations about how can you become a Scout and about how Scout team structure works. At a glance things that should be known by every scout are characterized: woodcraft, camping, chivalry, rescue, perseverance, and patriotism and their role is presented by author in narrative. Next is described attempt of greenhorn, law, promise and the Scout Motto, secret signs and appearance of uniform. System of Patrols, patrol signs and Scout games meant to develop proper attributes are brought closer.

Second chapter says about life in field of Scouts. They learn to be able to manage in every situation, because for man used to civilization life in wilderness is very hard. Ways of how to learn and teach this are shown and role of topography is emphasized. Also history and methodology of water Scouts is shown.

In the third chapter author describes camp life. He talks about pioneering on the undeveloped area. To do that we need skills like: tying knots, cutting down trees, building huts, tents, bridges and boats, evaluating measure, height and distance. He stresses that Scout should solve problems using his mind and cleverness. Then basic camp equipment, way how to set up a camp and important organizational matters are presented. Also way of how to make your camp life easier is presented. In the end are described few types of fireplaces and also ways of preparing food.

Fourth chapter Is about tracking. Scouts have to notice traces, memorize characteristic of people, nature and terrain. At night instead of sight it is necessary to use hearing. It is described how to recognize human’s and animal’s trails. Way of tracking while staying undetected is showed. Ability of inference is emphasized. In the ending of this chapter are added some games developing all these features of Scout.

In fifth chapter we can read about woodcraft. In the beginning author brings closer the art of hiding and creeping. He describes needs of pets and ways of helping them. Also wild species are mentioned. Scout should know all fauna occurring in his surroundings. Also knowledge of tree species is shortly presented.

In chapter number six titled “Endurance for Scouts” importance of fitness and physical activity is emphasized. Author describes exercises meant to strengthen every part of our body and proper hygiene. He presents how to be healthy. Harmful influence of smoking and drinking alcohol on health and social appearance of young man is marked. Next a yarn about therapeutics, preventing illnesses and proper nourishment is placed. Scout drill is shortly described.

Next, seventh chapter, is about chivalry. Author refers to code of chivalry in Scouts behavior. Many attributes that they should have are discussed and so: sacrifice, complaisance, loyalty, friendliness, generosity, kindness, respect to woman. He also emphasize: honor, honesty, nobility, duty, obedience, discipline, humility, courage, endurance, humor and gaiety. In the end there are described duties to God, managing money and ways of earning them.

in eighth chapter there are placed informations about rescuing. At the beginning there are presented saint John’s knights who were helping ill people. Author convince us that everyone can become a hero and deserve one of many medals given for saving life. He gives us advices how to act in case of panic, fire, sinking, danger caused by animals. He shows how to first aid but ways presented here in majority are not consistent with today’s norms.

In chapter ninth patriotism is described. Every Scout has his duties to homeland. He should be prepared to fight for it and to defense him and others. Role of helping police is emphasized. In Polish translation a yarn about power of Great Britain is skipped.

In the last – tenth chapter – there are placed notes dedicated to Leaders. Everything about how to educate, solve problems, set a good example and achieve positive results in a Troop. Organization of Scouting and it’s finances are described. Way of guiding a group and duties of Scoutmaster are presented. There are included advices how to gain new boys and how to set a Troop. Informations about Patrols system, motto “Be Prepared”, games and boy’s features that should be developed are placed in brief. Allegations to Scouting are presented. In the ending there is showed how Scouting can influence society and how to make use of educating work.