Online Scavenger Hunt

Fulfills Step 3 of GSUSA Cadette Netiquette badge requirements.

Items Needed

Pens or pencils
Make your own list or use the Online Netiquette Scavenger Hunt (enough for at least one per scout group)
Wi-Fi or cable-connected devices (laptops, tablets, or phones) for research
Netiquette Tip Sheet (from earlier activity)

Instructions

Scouts form pairs or small groups, ensuring at least one internet-connected device per group.
Discuss popular online games, how scouts experience chatting in games, and whether they enjoy or avoid certain interactions. Encourage sharing of both positive and negative experiences, if applicable.
- If no scouts play online games, research articles about communication during gaming, focusing on positive and negative behaviors.
Scouts use the device to search for items on the Scavenger Hunt in a specific time frame decided on by the troop (Recommend 15-20 minutes).
Groups share their findings with everyone, discussing common themes in negative examples and identifying favorite tips for good online sportsmanship.
(Optional) Each scout updates their Netiquette Tip sheet by writing:
- One tip for writing useful and positive communication
- One tip for avoiding negative or unhelpful communication

Social media platforms: Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Snapchat (focus on comment sections).
News websites: Comments on articles about local or global events.
Blog platforms: Read comments on posts about hobbies or topics of interest.
Gaming forums or videos: Comments about gameplay, sportsmanship, or strategy.
YouTube comment sections: Responses to videos discussing tutorials, opinions, or challenges.
Console websites like Xbox or PlayStation: Stories or forums about gaming experiences.
Educational websites: Comments on articles or videos related to school subjects or projects.
Community discussion boards: Look for local or shared interest groups.

Helpful comments that spark a discussion or share thoughtful ideas.
Unhelpful comments that include insults, name-calling, or irrelevant content.
Positive comments expressing encouragement, gratitude, or constructive feedback.
Negative comments that are rude, dismissive, or overly critical.
Short responses like “k” or emojis—evaluate whether they feel useful or dismissive.
Comments that misuse grammar or formatting (e.g., excessive all caps, no punctuation)—decide how that impacts the tone.
Examples of great online sportsmanship during video games or group collaborations.
Stories about negative online communication ending badly, such as conflicts or misunderstandings.
Tips or examples of safe, positive communication online from blogs or articles.

Tia Kennard