Discovery Rangers Program Introduction “Royal Rangers,” the Royal Rangers Emblem, and Royal Rangers group names and group logos are registered trademarks of Gospel Publishing House. Permission for use is required. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ All rights reserved worldwide. “KJV” refers to the King James Version of the Bible © 2010 by Gospel Publishing House, 1445 N. Boonville Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65802. All rights reserved worldwide. No part of this material may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means–electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise–without prior written permission of the copyright owner, except brief quotations used in connection with reviews in magazines or newspapers. Handout material may be reproduced for use in teaching within your local outpost. We ask that our members set a good example for the young men that they lead by honoring this license agreement. Version 06/2010
The Royal Rangers Ministry Welcome to Royal Rangers, an action-packed, life-changing ministry to boys of all ages. When Royal Rangers began in the early 1960s, its focus was to reach, teach, and keep boys for Jesus Christ. Johnnie Barnes was asked to spearhead this ministry, and, under the direction of the General Council of the Assemblies of God, he formed the basic purpose and goals of the Royal Rangers ministry. He had a passion for souls, which was sensed and appreciated by the many leaders he trained, encouraged, and mentored. Using Luke 2:40 as the basis by which boys grow mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially, the Royal Rangers ministry has been developed to train the whole boy. Weekly meetings are filled with the activities, camaraderie, and spiritual challenge that boys need. Many Royal Rangers outposts offer additional events, such as Ranger Derbies, bike rides, campouts, and day camps. Over the years, Royal Rangers has grown in scope and size. It began as a ministry for nine- to seventeen-year-old boys and expanded until, in 1972, it included boys from ages five to seventeen. While the primary focus of Royal Rangers has been ministry to boys, it has provided a secondary benefit of reaching the families of these boys, especially fathers. Rangers expanded beyond the United States and has been quickly adopted in over eighty countries. With growth came organization and further program development. In the 1990s, the General Council of the Assemblies of God and the Royal Rangers Executive Committee began assessing, researching, and developing a plan for Rangers in the twenty-first century. The result of much prayer, study, and development is a Royal Rangers ministry that still meets the needs of the total boy as well as the challenges ahead. Boys begin their Royal Rangers adventure as kindergartners in Ranger Kids. A church may combine kindergarten with first and second graders or offer separate classes for each of the three grades of Ranger Kids. After a boy completes Ranger Kids, he moves into Discovery Rangers. This group is for boys in the third, fourth, and fifth grades. Leaders at this level who choose to include camping events can organize trips and begin to train the boys in camping skills. The program offers many alternatives to boys or churches that choose not to camp. Adventure Rangers is the program for the middle-school boys (grades six, seven, and eight).
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Expedition Rangers is the program for the high school boys (grades nine through twelve). The program materials for all Rangers groups are designed to be easy for a leader to use, complete in lesson plans, natural in the integration of advancements during the meetings, and great for visitors and boys who join midyear. The goal of Royal Rangers is to evangelize, equip, and empower the next generation of Christlike men and lifelong servant leaders.
The Discovery Rangers Program Discovery Rangers is a weekly program for boys in third, fourth and fifth grades. The boys in this age group will begin doing more outdoor activities, hiking, camping, Ranger Derbies, and exploring other activities that are of interest to them. The Discovery Rangers advancement system is based on earning a variety of merits. While the advancements are not connected to specific merits, there are required merits for earning the Gold Eagle Medal. The boys may earn their merits in any order, which allows new boys to join at any time and work on the same materials as the others. This system allows the leader to meet the advancement needs of all the boys in his group with one meeting plan. It also allows a great deal of flexibility for the leader by providing resources for wide range of activities (both camping and noncamping; both indoor and outdoor). The Royal Rangers program provides the tools leaders need to teach the boys in their groups about their country, community, school, church, outpost, family, and themselves. It also helps leaders to teach the boys how to become young men of God. The boys will learn how to say no to drugs, gangs, and peer pressure, and how to make good choices. They will learn ways to say yes to their outpost, their church, and—most importantly—to Jesus Christ.
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INTRODUCTION
Discovery Rangers Meetings Philosophy of a Successful Meeting The success or failure of a Royal Rangers group is based on the meeting. Meetings should be well-planned and well-coordinated. Boys should be given plenty of activity, but boisterous meetings can kill the program. Royal Rangers meetings should be held on a regular basis, preferably weekly. Regular meeting times provide consistency with the boys and lead to a successful program. Balance fun and accomplishments. Each meeting should give boys an opportunity to progress along the Advancement Trail and to have fun. Start and end meetings on time. This will help to alleviate parental tension and tardiness of the boys. Adequate preparation is vital and should be done well in advance. Set goals and work toward them. Each lesson has a lesson objective, Tonight’s Meeting, on the first page of every lesson. The entire meeting has been strategically designed to make a significant impact on the life of every boy. Planning and prayer go hand in hand. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you plan lessons and minister to the boys.
Planning the Meeting A Royal Rangers leader must be ready for anything, and that includes being prepared for meetings. Boys are active. Trying to stop their activity will only lead to frustration for the leader and the boys. It is not in their nature to sit still for long. Active and quiet times have been planned to provide variety and structure. Boys need to move. They also need to obey and to remain in their seats at the appropriate times. Teach the boys to be quiet and reverent during quiet times. A suggested method is to require that a boy raise his hand and be called on before talking.
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How to Plan and Run a Successful Discovery Rangers Meeting Read the meeting plan carefully at least four days before the meeting. Usually the previous plan will indicate when important items are needed for the following week. This will insure proper preparation and collection of all equipment needed for the meeting. Remember, the boys will act in a manner that corresponds to how well the leader has prepared. Most activities within a meeting last no longer than ten minutes. Meetings usually last from sixty to ninety minutes. This Guide has been designed to be flexible. Select the activities you want to do and adjust the time you spend on each to fit the time frame of your meeting. Some weeks, you may use most of your time for one or two meeting segments, omitting or adjusting other segments accordingly.
The Quarter Approach Each year of Discovery Rangers consists of four quarters. The quarters have been designed to teach the whole boy and can be taught in any order within that year. This Guide is flexible to meet the needs of your group. While it is better to follow the week-to-week meeting plans, you may decide to teach a skill merit other than the one suggested in the text. Keep in mind that boys must complete certain merits to earn the Gold Eagle Medal. For example, the quarter may suggest teaching the Fire Craft merit at a time of year unsuitable for outdoor activity in your area. As a leader, you will need to make that decision.
Meetings for the Quarter
WEEKS ONE THROUGH TEN: WEEKLY MEETING
Each meeting in the quarter has a theme. The entire meeting has been strategically planned to focus on the theme as stated in Tonight’s Meeting on the first page of the meeting plan. The boys advance based upon completion of skill, Bible, and leadership merits, as well as Christian service, leadership duties, and other requirements.
WEEK ELEVEN: REVIEW SESSION
The eleventh week provides an opportunity for the leader and boys to complete any unfinished requirements for the quarter. It is also a time to begin planning activities for the next quarter. The boys can also elect leaders for the coming quarter. The meeting plan also suggests missions emphasis activities using BGMC materials.
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WEEK TWELVE: COUNCIL OF ACHIEVEMENT
The twelfth week is a formal ceremony that recognizes the boys for their achievements. This is also an opportunity for leaders to meet parents and acquaint them with the ministry of Royal Rangers. It is important to present awards individually to each boy. Even newer boys should be recognized with a certificate. The ceremony is conducted with dignity, honor, and respect but is also a time to have some fun. Some outposts have barbecues or activities along with the council’s ceremony. Each group is given opportunity to demonstrate something they’ve worked on during the quarter. WEEK THIRTEEN: HOLIDAYS AND CHURCH EVENTS
While thirteen weeks make up a quarter, this program intentionally has only twelve meeting plans per quarter. This allows for times during the year when Rangers is not held, for example, during Christmas vacation or when the church holds special meetings.
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The Weekly Meeting Tonight’s Meeting This is a short description of the meeting’s theme.
Week
God Created Everything
Year 1, Quarter 1
Tonight’s Meeting
Leadership Training
God created everything that exists.
This helps a Discovery leader learn more about Royal Rangers. Helpful information or ideas for each section of the meeting will be given here. An icon of the meeting point discussed is placed next to the text.
Leadership Training While the Boys Arrive: Good leaders arrive early. When a boy arrives, greet him and give him something to do. If the boys are left unsupervised, they will, in most cases, engage in activities such as wrestling or running. By the time the meeting begins, you will need to spend valuable time bringing them to order. Activities for this time are suggested in each lesson. Use the patrol system during this time, training boys to become leaders. Direct patrol guides and assistant guides to show the boys in their patrols what they can do.
Materials Opening Ceremony ❏ United States flag ❏ Spotlight or flashlight
Business/Patrol Corners ❏ Patrol attendance sheets ❏ Quarterly calendar ❏ Merit lesson plan from Leaders
Program Feature
Red Merits Reference (Tool Craft Merit, Lesson 1 recommended)
❏ See lesson plan for additional materials
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While the Boys Arrive 20 minutes prior to the meeting
Have the boys who arrive early to help set up the room. Show the boys how each table and chair should be set up. Assign other boys to clean up around the room and assist the commander.
Advancement
Discovery Rangers Workbook
❏ Bible Merit work sheet from
Materials This is a list of items needed for each segment of the meeting. (The list of basic items needed for every meeting is included in the Facilities and Equipment section of this introduction.)
❏ See merit lesson plans for materials needed
Recreation
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❏ Long rope
Opening Ceremony 5 minutes
Have two boys hold open the U.S. flag so all can see it. Dim the lights and have one of the boys hold a flashlight or spotlight on the flag. Explain: The white stripes represent purity; the red remind us of people who died for our freedom. The blue part is like the sky and stands for truth. Each star represents one of the states in our country. Let’s say the pledge of allegiance. Have a boy lead in the pledge. Ask any of the boys to state the blue point Loyal. State the blue point Loyal with the boys: “Loyal— a Ranger is faithful to his church, family, outpost, and friends.”
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GOD CREATED EVERYTHING
1. While the Boys Arrive Low-key activities are suggested to keep the boys busy before the meeting begins. 3.
2. Opening Ceremony The boys gather for a group opening which always includes prayer.
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3. Business/Patrol Corners The boys work together as a team in taking attendance, praying, working on a project, planning an activity, in order to develop their patrol identity.
4. Bible Study Truths are presented to build biblical knowledge. Brief “Respond” and “Reflect” segments are included.
INTRODUCTION
Business/Patrol Corners 10 minutes
This is the first meeting of the quarter, so hand out the quarterly schedule. Copy an attendance sheet (see Records section of this book). TELL: Have the senior guide tell the patrol guides (1) to take attendance, (2) collect dues, and (3) announce upcoming activities or events. INSTRUCT: Refer to the patrol chapter in the Royal Rangers Leaders Manual and have the boys consult the patrol chapter in the Discovery Rangers Handbook. Have the patrols brainstorm ideas for patrol flags and have the guides write down the ideas. DO: Monitor the patrols progress, then have the boys begin planning for the first activity of the quarter.
Bible Study 10 minutes
Story Background While on a Ranger outing at an amusement park, three boys—David (a Discovery Ranger), Andy (an Adventure Ranger), and Eli (an Expedition Ranger)—find a friendly stray dog and name him “Rocky.” But when they follow him into a mysterious, unmarked ride (which is really a time machine) the boys and Rocky are thrown into an amazing adventure through Bible times. Rocky tells their story.
Bible Study: Genesis Merit, Lesson 1 Bible Lesson: God Created Everything Bible Reference: Genesis 1:1 to 2:4
Story: David, Andy, Eli, and I (Rocky) are on a great adventure. We were traveling through time, when all of a sudden the time screen viewer got very dark. When the doors slid open, the molecular differentiator (Mo-D) clicked to the shadow bubble setting. Eli remembered that the professor’s log said that this setting would keep us safe. David asked, “Hey! Who turned off the lights?” Everything will be OK,” Eli said. “What is going to happen?” Andy asked. “The Mo-D locator—this little screen on the molecular differentiator —says Genesis 1. I believe we’re going to see when God created everything. It is one of the neatest stories of the Bible,” Eli answered. The whole sky lit up around us. It was so beautiful. Eli opened the Bible to Genesis 1 and read that light was the first thing God created. On the second day, God created the seas and the sky. Just then the clouds formed, and the waters below us began to splash about. “Is this the third day now?” David asked. Eli nodded. The waters began to separate, and we could see bare ground. It was so great to see these things. “Hey, guys, what do you think was created on the fourth day?” Eli asked. David thought the animals were created next. Eli said the sun and moon. We looked up into the sky as God created the sun, moon, and stars. On the fifth day, we saw fish jumping out of the water and birds flying over our heads.
GOD CREATED EVERYTHING
To the Commander Have the boys read the story, or read the story to them. Ask the boys what Andy said about the first and fourth days. Then remind them that Eli said there was a pattern. Ask them to finish what Andy started by filling in the blanks.
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4. Bible Study
Teaching Tips, Classroom Management, Facts About Boys, Ranger Facts, Bible Facts
continued
On the sixth day, we saw the ground spring forth with all kinds of animals, and then we saw people created. That was the most amazing thing of all. (To learn more about creation, read chapters 1 and 2 of Genesis.) David remembered something about the seventh day from his family devotions, so he asked Eli what happened on the seventh day. Eli answered, “ God rested on the seventh day because all the work was done. Everything ever created was created on the first six days. Hey, guys, do you see the pattern in the way God created things? On the first three days God created something that needed to be filled. The last three days God filled what He created the first three days.” “I get it,” said Andy. “On the first day God created light, and on the fourth day God created the sun, moon, and stars. Then on the second day God created the sky and the seas, and then filled them with . . . . ” I heard the time whistle go off. I barked and headed back to the time machine as the boys followed. The questions were blinking on the viewing screen when we stepped inside. Andy looked at the manual and began entering the information. The doors slid shut and the time machine began humming once again.
Bible Facts When studying the first six days of creation a pattern emerges concerning the step-by-step process for each day. Every day contains the same pattern except one, which omits one step. The most interesting fact concerns day six. On day six man is the only thing God created which was very good.
Ranger Facts The Royal Rangers shares much with its parent organization, the Assemblies of God. Both organizations were formed to meet a critical need for evangelism, ministry, missions, preaching, and holiness. Both have grown beyond expectations.
Tool Craft Merit (Red), Lesson 1. Remove the pages for the suggested merit lesson from the
Leaders Red Merits Reference and insert them here. Materials are listed on the first page of the merit lesson plan. Note: If you are not using the suggested merit, you can choose another merit with the same color border.
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shows that God created everything; evolution is wrong; and because it is the first story in the Bible.)
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Program Feature 20 minutes
Advancement 20 minutes
A. Genesis Merit: Have the boys complete their worksheets. 1. Fill in the days of creation (see chart).
2. Why did God rest on the seventh day? (Because all the work was done; everything in creation was created in six days.) 3. Why do you believe the beginning of Genesis is so important? (Possible answers include: Because it
DAY ONE: (Light) DAY TWO: (Seas and sky) DAY THREE: (Land)
Every lesson has helps to increase the leader’s teaching skills.
5. Program Feature In this main segment of the meeting the boys will work on requirements for the skill merit being taught that quarter.
6. Advancement
DAY FOUR: (Sun, moon, and stars) DAY FIVE: (Fish and birds) DAY SIX: (Land, animals, and man)
B. Tool Craft Merit: Refer to the Advancement section of the merit lesson plan used as the Program Feature.
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The boys work on completing requirements for Bible and skill merits during this time.
GOD CREATED EVERYTHING
7. Recreation 7.
Recreation 15 minutes
In the Pond: Use rope to form a circle on the ground large enough to hold all of the boys. Arrange the players in a circle around the outside of the rope circle. Now give the orders “in the pond” or “on the bank.” If you order “in the pond,” all are to jump in the circle. If you order “on the bank,” all should jump back. If the order “in the pond” is given when all are in the pond, no one should move. Anyone making a mistake is out of the game. The last remaining player wins. The Name Game: Have the boys form a circle and begin with the first boy on your right. He will need to say the name of something God created with the letter A. Each boy will need to give another name until one boy is stumped. The commander will need to record all the answers so the boys don’t duplicate answers. Give them a 15-second time limit. The boy who is stumped will be out. The next boy will start with the next letter in the alphabet. This continues until one boy is left. He is the winner.
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Often the suggested games tie in with the meeting’s theme. Other games may be suggested in the lesson plans for the skill merit suggested for the meeting.
Facts about Boys The development of the brain of young boys is very important. Stimulation through a variety of activities, stories, and interpersonal relationships is greatly emphasized in Royal Rangers, which helps with this development.
8. Devotion
Teacher Tips To communicate effectively, be familiar with your subject. Become proficient in an area or skill before you teach it to the boys.
Devotion 5–10 minutes
Carol, Fred, and Tom had planned an evening packed with fun. They were going to go fishing at their favorite pond. They had their fishing poles and bait. They like to fish at the pond across the field. They started off across the field whistling and singing. Then they got into a tag match. All of a sudden they heard what sounded like a gunshot. “Duck!” yelled Fred. “Where is that coming from?” asked Carol. “Over there,” pointed Tom. “Stay low and follow me,” said Fred. They crawled on farther through the field trying to get to the pond so they could fish. As they were getting closer to the pond, they were getting closer to the person who was shooting at something. “Look, he’s shooting at those birds over there,” said Tom. “Why would someone do that?” “Some people think it is fun to hurt those things that God created,” said Fred.
They continued to watch the man shoot at the birds. It seemed like they had been sitting there forever, when he finally quit shooting and left. They carefully crept over to where he had been and looked around. All the birds he had hit were lying on the ground. They found one that just had an injured wing. “Look, that one is still alive!” yelled Carol. “Let’s take it home and try to mend its wing,” said Fred. “Yeah, let’s take care of this bird, just like Jesus takes care of us,” said Carol. God created the world and all that is in it; God cares for even the tiny sparrows. Earlier we read and learned about Genesis 1:1-31. Everything God created is good and needs special care. What are some things that help remind you of the goodness God has given you? What has happened to you that reminded you of the goodness God has given you?
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GOD CREATED EVERYTHING
The devotion emphasizes one spiritual truth. Make the Devotion the focus of the meeting. It has been designed to elicit a response from the boys.
9. Closing Ceremony This is a time for the boys to respond to the Devotion. It always includes prayer.
Nature Facts These are interesting details about God’s creation. 9. Classroom Management Classroom design is very important. Keep in mind the size of the boys. Put certain items and tools within their reach. Set up shelves at their level with items they use during the meetings.
Nature Facts The male silkworm moth has the keenest sense of smell in nature.
Encouragement
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Closing Ceremony Less than 5 minutes
Close in prayer, thanking God for His creation. Before dismissing the boys, ask them to tell their parents how special they are and how much they appreciate their parents.
10.
After the Meeting Less than 5 minutes
REVIEW: After the boys have left, meet with the other commanders to discuss how the meeting went and how to improve it. Preview next week’s lesson. !ALERT! Have plenty of tools on hand for boys to practice with next week. Order Cut and Chop cards if you don’t have them. You will need them when the boys finish the Tool Craft Merit, in a few weeks. Find some extra help for week 5, maybe a few parents. Read the lesson and organize your helpers’ jobs in advance. REMINDER: Clean the room before leaving.
“He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe” (PROVERBS 28:26).
10. After the Meeting These are suggested activities for the leader to do after the meeting ends.
Encouragement This is a positive statement to encourage the leader.
GOD CREATED EVERYTHING
INTRODUCTION
The Discovery Rangers Advancement Trail The Discovery Rangers Advancement Trail is based on the needs, interests, and characteristics of boys in third, fourth, and fifth grades. The Trail is a plan of advancement through learning—from both experiences and activities—and being recognized for this learning. It is designed to offer every boy adventure and fun. The Trail is more than an interesting course of action; it is a new experience—a new achievement. It is a Ranger’s opportunity to grow through new abilities, knowledge, and desires.
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Options for Groupings Each outpost is unique and offers different opportunities. Some outposts may have only one leader to teach all the boys in Discovery Rangers. Others will have several leaders for this group. This Guide has been developed to provide flexibility and structure to enable one-, two-, and threeclass options for teaching. Boys can work on their Advancement Trail while there is more than one grade in the room. A new boy in Discovery Rangers can work on the same Bible and skill merits as a boy who has been in Royal Rangers since Ranger Kids. Each will progress on the Trail based upon the number of merits he has earned.
One-Leader Option The Discovery Rangers program works well in a church that puts all third-, fourth- and fifth-graders in one class. The boys can satisfy their Trail’s requirements even when grouped with boys from all three grades. The challenge for the leader is to teach merits which appeal to all the boys and do not duplicate previously earned merits.
Two-Leader Option The most logical division of Discovery Rangers into two classes is to have one class for fifth-graders and a combined class for third- and fourthgraders. This is due to the differences in the developmental levels of the boys. However, any means of splitting Discovery Rangers into smaller classes can work.
Three-Leader Option The preferred option is to have a separate class for each Trail. There are several ways to do this. One would be to have a leader always teach third grade, one always teach fourth grade, and one always teach fifth grade. Another way is for three leaders to each work with the same group of boys as they advance through Discovery Rangers. When boys move to Adventure Rangers after fifth grade, their leader starts with a new group of third-grade boys and sees them through the Discovery Rangers program.
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INTRODUCTION
Flexibility of the Program The following suggestions have been used successfully at many churches. In order to reduce the load for each leader, all boys meet for a joint Opening Ceremony. The groups then break off for Business/Patrol Corners, Bible Study, Program Feature, and Advancement, and then come back together for Recreation, Devotion, and Closing Ceremony. Outings are planned for more than one group. It is always important to maintain structure and discipline, especially when bringing various ages together. This works well when every leader attends and fulfills specific responsibilities. Hold an outing with other outposts. A larger outpost with experienced leaders can be a great assistance to a smaller outpost. Contact the section leader for other ideas and contact information for other outposts. Planning is the key to a successful meeting, especially when a leader is working alone with a group. Be sure to have detailed instructions and appropriate materials for any assistants. All prospective workers should complete your church’s children’s worker application and be approved before participating in the classroom.
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Facilities and Equipment The Classroom The room you meet in should be far enough away from the sanctuary or other classes so that tension does not develop when the boys are noisy. Make the room bright and attractive. Some activities will require extra room. If your classroom is not large enough for these activities, you may need to use a multipurpose room or go outdoors.
Appropriate Seating Provide seating and tables that are sized for the boys. Be sure there is enough room so that the boys don’t feel crowded as they work on projects. If a boy has a behavior problem, you can pull up a chair and sit next to him without even saying why. This often stops the behavior.
Record Keeping Good record keeping is vital in Discovery Rangers. Not only does it show what a boy has accomplished, it helps when you distribute awards, communicate with parents, and promote a boy to the next group. Spend time keeping up-to-date records, or assign someone this task. Forms are available in the Leaders track of TRaCclub. Keep a copy of the forms at the front of your Guide or on the wall as a visual of the boys’ progress.
Equipment and Supplies Each lesson has specific materials needed. Many are common supplies that most churches use in classrooms, like white and colored construction paper, pencils, glue, scissors, markers, crayons, paint, and paintbrushes. These basic materials may be used weekly and should always be available. Also, balls and balloons are used for a number of activities. Here are some other helpful items to have in your room, if possible. Coat rack Open shelves Drawer space Blackboard/white board Bulletin board/felt board
Each boy should bring a Bible and his Handbook to the weekly meeting. If possible, you may provide extra Bibles in the classroom.
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Characteristics of Discovery Rangers Understanding what boys are like will help you be a more effective teacher. When you respect boys, they will learn to respect you and others. By respecting boys, you will build their self-esteem. Here are some ways you can get to know the boys and treat them with respect. Observe them. Listen to their conversations. Visit their homes. Interact with them. Call the boys by name. Make newcomers feel welcome. Be sincere. The boys will detect insincerity immediately. Encourage quality work and effort. The following charts give a quick overview of the general characteristics of boys in third, fourth, and fifth grades. Alongside the characteristics are tips on how you can meet the needs of boys and encourage their development.
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Third and Fourth Graders A Boy Grows Physically
What this means for the Leader
Play is important to a boy’s mind, body and character. Play is a boy’s work!! He uses his skills with a purpose. He needs physical activity.
Always provide time for the Recreation part of the meeting. Train him in new skills. Use the Program Feature, Advancement, and Recreation as opportunities to exert his high energy level. Encourage him to practice a consistent personal hygiene regimen. Provide numerous and varied activities to improve his developing skills. Encourage the boys to work as teams to develop cooperative skills. Provide many opportunities to work as a team or patrol. Play should not be prolonged, just as study periods should be brief. Change is important. Alternate the activities to include indoor and outdoor activities.
He is usually healthy. Motor coordination and small muscles develop. His growth is slower than in the primary years, but he is full of energy. Through play the boy learns to get along with others. He is energetic and active. He tires from being inactive as well as from vigorous activity.
A Boy Grows Spiritually What he can learn about God, the Father
What he can learn about God, the Son
God loves him, others, and the world. God made and cares for the universe. God knows and provides for our needs. God has all power to help. God desires our prayers and answers them. God is holy and just. God can be trusted not to fail.
Jesus is God’s Son who came to be the Savior. Jesus died on the cross for us because of sin. Jesus rose from the dead and is now in heaven. Jesus loves us. Jesus never sinned, but loves the sinner. Jesus did and does many miracles. Jesus wants to be our Savior. Jesus wants us to be His disciples and follow Him.
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INTRODUCTION
A Boy Grows Spiritually
continued
What he can learn about the Bible
What he can learn about God, the Holy Spirit
The Bible is God’s Word. The Bible tells us what God wants of us. The Bible shows God at work in others. The Bible is true, not fictitious. The Bible is to be read, studied, and memorized.
The Holy Spirit helps us learn about God. The Holy Spirit helps us do what is right. The Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit is promised to believers.
Additional Spiritual Concepts
What this means for the Leader
He is watching and observing.
Practice a consistent walk and provide him opportunities to “walk in another man’s shoes.” Teach him that the Bible is the only acceptable standard for living.
He is trying to formulate a moral code.
A Boy Grows Mentally A Boy Grows Mentally
What this means for the Leader
His attention span is increasing.
Limit most activities to no more than 10 or 15 minutes. Provide him opportunities to solve problems. Connect abstract concepts with things he already knows. Use the program to encourage the boy to memorize the Scriptures on a daily basis. Give the boy numerous opportunities and activities to succeed. Enable him to find and experience his strengths. Teach him that not everyone is strong is every area, but he should recognize that team players contribute different things to the success of the team. Show belief in his ability to succeed. Encourage this ability because they will need it in order to become proficient at reasoning and problem solving.
His reasoning skills are improving. He is beginning to understand abstract concepts. He has a great potential for memorization of Scripture. He struggles with competence and failure issues. He is more self-aware and sees his failures because he observes the successes of others.
He can screen out unwanted or irrelevant information.
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A Boy Grows Socially A Boy Grows Socially
What this means for the Leader
He enjoys both group and individual activities. He struggles with favoritism. He is highly competitive and struggles with being a perfectionist. He is beginning to form a strong peer group.
Provide many opportunities for both. Delegate responsibilities to boys equally. Encourage his desire to succeed while obeying rules and observing fairness. Use the patrol method. Give him opportunities both to lead and to follow. Don’t betray his trust. Encourage the boys to work together. Encourage him to follow the rules the boys decide upon. Consistently enforce rules. Encourage him to complete and participate in the Bible studies and devotions. Help him to develop a trust in God’s Word and His plan for man.
He strongly desires approval and popularity. He trusts others, especially his teacher. He has a strong desire to see justice practiced. He is beginning to struggle with his belief system. He struggles with death and dying.
Fifth Grade Boys A Boy Grows Physically
What this means for the Leader
Play is important to a boy’s mind, body, and character. Play is a boy’s work!! He uses his skills with a purpose. He needs physical activity.
Always provide time for the Recreation part of the meeting. Train him in new skills. Use the Program Feature, Advancement, and Recreation as opportunities to exert his energy. Encourage him to practice a consistent personal hygiene regimen. Provide numerous and varied activities to increase his developing skills. Encourage the boys to work as teams to develop cooperative skills. Provide many opportunities to work as a team or patrol. Play should not be prolonged, just as study periods should be brief. Change is important. Provide opportunities to increase his stamina. Give him opportunities for noisy play and quiet play or activity. Teach him appropriately.
He is usually healthy. Motor coordination and small muscles develop further. His growth is slower than in the primary years, but he is full of energy. Through play he learns to get along with others. He is energetic and active. He is beginning to develop stamina. He is noisy. He is beginning to experience puberty.
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INTRODUCTION
A Boy Grows Spiritually What he can learn about God, the Father
What he can learn about God, the Son
God loves, forgives, and protects.
Jesus is God’s Son, was born of a virgin, and died for us. Jesus fulfilled God’s plan; therefore I must accept Him. Jesus became alive again and is now in heaven. Jesus’ perfect life is a pattern for godly living. Jesus did and does many miracles. Jesus wants us to be His disciples and follow Him. Jesus wants to be our Savior.
God is Spirit. God is all-powerful. God is all-wise. God is a triune being. God is perfect, holy, and just. God wants to show His will for my life.
What he can learn about the Bible
What he can learn about God, the Holy Spirit
The Bible is God’s Word. The Bible guides us and is to be obeyed. The Bible shows God at work in others. The Bible is true, not fictitious. The Bible is to be read, studied, memorized, and put into practice.
The Holy Spirit helps us learn about God. The Holy Spirit helps us do what is right. The Holy Spirit is promised to believers. The Holy Spirit can fill my life and give me power.
Additional Spiritual Concepts
What this means for the Leader
He is watching and observing.
Practice a consistent walk, and provide him opportunities to “walk in another man’s shoes.” Teach him that the Bible is the only acceptable standard for living.
He is trying to formulate a moral code.
A Boy Grows Mentally A Boy Grows Mentally
What this means for the Leader
He has a variety of interests.
Provide him opportunities to expand his horizons through the merit system and through indoor and outdoor adventures. Provide opportunities for role-playing and skills in making proper choices. Teach using a variety of methods and settings.
He is beginning to practice logical thinking. His ability to communicate and understand written and oral material is increasing. He is becoming more aware of the belief systems of his friends and society.
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Teach him how to use the Bible to make and support certain decisions and beliefs.
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A Boy Grows Mentally
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A Boy Grows Mentally
What this means for the Leader
He has a great ability to memorize.
Provide him a structured and varied plan for memorizing Scripture. Provide him opportunities to discuss, answer, and read the proper biblical perspective in a variety of settings and circumstances. Provide problem-solving opportunities during the Bible Study, Program Feature, Advancement, and Recreation.
He is beginning to question his own belief system.
He desires more opportunities to use new problemsolving skills.
A Boy Grows Socially A Boy Grows Socially
What this means for the Leader
He forms close friendships.
Give him opportunities to work with a variety of other boys. Provide him guidance in choosing friends. Encourage his desire to succeed while obeying rules and observing fairness. Continue to teach, model, and confirm the need for biblical standards of living.
He is highly competitive. The peer group is beginning to pressure him and is becoming a more dominant factor in decisionmaking. He is finding heroes. He desires independence. He is quick tempered. He is beginning to reject public displays of affection. He is practical in all his dealings.
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Encourage him to follow the godly examples of men around him, especially of Jesus. Rotate him through the patrol system to positions of leadership. Teach him how to manage his anger and model this in your own life. Respect his need for space. Teach appropriate ways of showing affection and concern for others. Provide him opportunities to practice his problemsolving skills with others, such as campouts.
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Discovery Rangers and the Community .
Any church with a Royal Rangers outpost can make a significant impact on the community. The skills taught throughout the year and the flexibility of the Rangers ministry provide a program for all boys. It is important for each leader to be intentional in developing community spirit in the outpost, in the home, and in the church. Here are some suggestions to broaden the boys’ experiences in the community. Contact the local visitor’s bureau or chamber of commerce for a visitor’s guide. Purchase a local road map that has historical information about your community. Contact local museums or the historical society. Contact community leaders and ask them to present information for Program Features and special events. Police and fire departments can be especially helpful. Investigate participating in any local community parades. Contact local, city, or county agencies, and offer the help of the boys for a community project. The public works department is often the contact for such projects. Contact a senior citizen’s center and offer the services of the outpost. Have the boys wear their uniforms to school one day in preparation for a promotional activity or Royal Rangers event. Make crafts and sell them at a local craft fair. Visit a local hospital (this usually requires high parental involvement). Visit the elderly from your church and the neighborhood. Volunteer at a center that provides food for the hungry. Ask your pastor how your group can assist the community. If a boy from another church attends your meetings, honor him at his church.
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Discipline in Discovery Rangers Meetings The ideal meeting has the boys totally involved in all the activities with no one complaining about the meeting being boring and no boys causing trouble. That probably doesn’t happen too often. A good meeting makes teaching the boys worthwhile. So is there a way you can have more good meetings? You can be more successful, create meetings that the boys can’t wait to come to, and see your group grow in all ways. Before any discussion on developing and maintaining classroom management, you need to understand the typical behavior of boys. A boy’s behavior is an expression of his emotions and his reality. Most boys have not developed adequate communication or social skills to express their feelings. Instead, they have learned to express those feelings through their behavior. If adults give the boy attention only when his behavior is inappropriate, he will continue inappropriate behavior to get the attention he needs. A boy will model the behavior of the adults in his life. An abused boy is more likely to become an abuser because he has learned to express feelings through abusing others. A leader needs to learn how to read a boy’s behavior to determine how the boy might be feeling. A boy caught cheating on a test may indicate he cares about his grade but has not taken the appropriate steps to achieve that desired grade. Understanding allows a wise leader to guide a boy in better ways to achieve the desired result. When we base our discipline on Philippians 2:3,4, we will treat boys with respect and love. We can look to the interests of the boys and, with humility, guide them in ways of interacting with others that will be to their long-term benefit.
A Proactive Approach A leader can avoid behavior problems in his class by taking a proactive approach. This means that he does things to prevent problems. This approach is the most important tool in classroom management. Proactive steps occur before the meeting begins.
The Room The tips below will assist the leader in designing a room that will aid classroom management. Seating arrangement: Arrange proper-size tables and chairs. Allow space in the room for the boys to gather in patrols for patrol work.
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Lighting and ventilation: Make sure the room has sufficient light and proper airflow. Temperature control: Keep the temperature at a comfortable level— not too cold or hot. Noise from adjoining classrooms: When you must be near another class, establish times when both classrooms are loud at the same time so the noise does not disturb the other group. Distractions: Minimize distractions. Some boys cannot deal well with items hanging from the ceiling or with a room containing an overabundance of decoration. Space per person: The younger the boys, the more space they need. Stick together: Keep the boys together during the various segments of the meeting. Equipment and teaching aids: Have proper equipment available or installed. Assistants: Recruit and work with other leaders in designing a comfortable and attractive room.
Planning the Lesson It cannot be emphasized enough: You must have a plan. Be firm, organized, and loving. Instructional material: Have all the materials for the meeting within reach throughout the meeting. Program: Review the lesson at least once before the meeting and know how to use the materials to teach each segment. Interest: Many discipline problems are caused by boredom and lack of interest. Planning and organization will help keep the boys from getting bored. Prayer: Prayerfully plan ahead. Session length: Avoid long sessions. The meeting plan has been designed to keep the meeting moving. Punctuality: Start and end on time. Use the review session during the eleventh week to catch up on projects in the quarter the boys may not have completed. Time-schedule conflicts: Communicate with other leaders to avoid any conflicts in the schedule.
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Visitors: Prepare additional materials for visitors. Time lags: Long gaps between speakers and activities can contribute to the boys’ becoming restless. Move deliberately from meeting segment to segment.
Proximity Your proximity to the boys can have a positive affect on their behavior and keep inappropriate behavior from occurring. Stay close enough to the boys to help them as needed during Advancement and other interactive activities. When assisting the boys, sit or kneel next to them to be on their level. Stand in front of the boys in one spot when giving directions.
An Active Approach Be active in your meetings. Use your skills and energy to direct the boys on the path you want them to take. This will keep the boys interested and keep the meeting moving.
The Lesson Each lesson has a theme incorporating each activity, story, and devotion. This helps the boys see how their activities are related. Here are some other classroom management tips to remember during the lesson. Introduce all the leaders. Explain the subject for the night. Tell why the lesson is important. Explain what is expected of the boys. Establish guidelines, rules, and boundaries. Illustrate important points. Keep the class moving. Use the natural curiosity of boys to lead to the next part of the lesson or to get them excited about next week’s lesson. End the meeting by hinting of more good things to follow in the next meeting.
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Interaction With Boys Staying connected with the boys will help manage the behavior in the room. Keep a good leader-boy relationship. Base all interaction on love and respect. Make sure the boys understand what is expected of them. Be clear that group cooperation is expected. Be fair but firm in expectations. Encourage self-discipline on the part of each boy. Challenge each boy to do his part to keep order by being attentive, showing respect, and obeying his leader. Keep a positive attitude throughout the meeting.
Movement Some boys need to be given the opportunity to move. Therefore the lessons have been designed with periods of motion and periods of rest. These are some specific strategies for boys who need even more movement. Between each part of the lesson, move the boys to another place in the room. Be intentional in utilizing movement when you see the need. Give very active boys the option of sitting in one of two seats. Allow a boy to move to either seat when he needs to. Give a boy the option of sitting, standing, or kneeling, as long as he is doing his work and staying in his assigned area.
A Reactive Approach There are times when you need to react to a situation. There are poor ways of reacting and better ways. Having a plan ahead of time will help you to react in a way that continues to foster growth and trust among the boys. Body language is a significant method of communicating. Most of our communication occurs through body language. That is why when a new boy enters the room the leader should look him in the eye and greet him. This says to the boy, “You are important here.” Another way we use body language is to stop boys from being boisterous or overly active. The leader designates a physical gesture and remains
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standing in place, for example, raising his hand in the air. The boys stop talking and raise their hands in the air too until everyone is silent. Talking loud to try to quiet the boys usually only causes the noise level to increase.
Body Language Below are more ideas for reacting properly to the boys’ actions. Keeping boys on task: Quietly and slowly approach the boy who has become distracted and stand behind him. Confrontation: In a difficult situation with a parent or boy, don’t stand face-to-face, because this says, “We are against each other.” Rather stand side by side or at least at a ninety degree angle. This suggests, “We are working on this together.” Reactions: Watch the boy’s body language. Crossed arms may mean he is not willing to listen to the lesson or information. If a boy is leaning forward, he is most likely very interested. Instructions for games: When giving instructions for games, stand still in front of the boys. Movement of the instructor tells the boys to move.
Touch Appropriate touch enhances the leader-boy relationship. These suggestions provide some guidelines. When a leader corrects a boy, the leader needs to explain the proper behavior and then model it. When the boy does the appropriate behavior, the leader can put his hand gently on the boy’s shoulder and say, “Very well done.” This touch is equated with appropriate behavior. When boys are working together and behaving properly, make a point of touching the boys by shaking their hands, touching their heads, or gently grasping their shoulders to acknowledge the proper behavior.
Verbal Responses Leaders also need to use words when reacting to a situation in the room. Here are some tips for using your voice in these situations. Your voice should be low, in control, and calm. Unless an emergency or other important message needs to be made, yelling should not be used in managing boys.
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Talk in a conversational manner. When a group is getting too loud, the leader should whisper or lower his voice. This will gain the boys’ attention. Try to ignore a boy who is yelling, and instruct the group that the appropriate way to ask a question or get your attention is to raise a hand. If a boy continues to yell, move toward him while continuing to teach or work with the other boys and remind him of the rules. Ask him to repeat his question in the appropriate way. When a boy is nagging, acknowledge his concerns or fears. He may just need to know he has been heard. Deal with the situation at a later time, instructing the boy on how to be heard. When a boy interrupts a conversation you are having with someone else, touch his shoulder to acknowledge him while continuing your conversation. When your conversation is over, talk with the boy, remind him of the rules, and attend to his question or need. Use questions to engage the boy. Most questions should be openended instead of requiring only yes or no answers. Use questions requiring the boys to respond in sentences. Avoid arguments with the boys. Be very careful when dealing with problems. Don’t give an opportunity for lying by asking a boy if he did something wrong. Boys will look to you to be the leader so guard that role. Set aside your personal preferences when settling disputes between the boys. Be as objective as possible.
Feedback When the boys receive immediate feedback about their learning, they will remember the lesson better. In school, the best method is to take a test, correct it immediately, and discern where knowledge was lacking. Then the learner will have learned from the test and increased his knowledge. In Discovery Rangers, a leader can Provide immediate feedback by working closely with the boys as they complete the requirements on their merits. Encourage the boys with positive comments and praise as they fulfill their requirements. For more information relating to classroom management and behavior issues, see the Royal Rangers Leader Manual.
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Leading a Boy to the Savior The goal of evangelizing, equippiung, and empowering boys for Jesus Christ must always remain primary. The excitement of the program will generate interest within the community. Boys will tell their friends, who will be eager to be part of a safe, action-filled place to grow. Some boys may walk through the doors of a church only once, so it is critical to make the most of every opportunity to reach a boy for the Savior. Once a boy has been reached, he will begin to hear the truths of God’s Word, learn skills needed to live a fruitful and successful life, and have the opportunity to touch the lives of those around him. The dedication of leaders and the mentoring effect they have will help keep these boys in church. A boy’s readiness to believe in Christ as Savior varies with age, background, understanding, and other individual differences. Whether a boy comes from a Christian home or not, he must first be shown the love of God if he is to feel God’s love and respond to the Savior. Patiently, lovingly, “precept upon precept; line upon line; . . . here a little, and there a little” (Isaiah 28:10, KJV), the boy must be taught the concepts necessary for him to understand God’s love for him. Pray and remain sensitive to the boy’s needs. Ask the Holy Spirit to help the boy recognize his need of the Savior. Remember, the boy’s salvation is not of any person’s doing. It is a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit who does His work through others. Boys need the way of salvation presented clearly by connecting concrete ideas to abstract ideas (e.g., stealing candy is wrong–it is a sin to steal). Boys in Discovery Rangers are just beginning to develop abstract thought. Explain that everyone has sinned, done things that are wrong, and need God’s forgiveness. Affirm God’s love for each individual. Some boys may not have a father at home so the concept of a loving Heavenly Father who cares may not be easily understood. Use the following helps as you present the “good news” of Jesus’ love.
Signs of Readiness to Become a Christian A boy may: Have a change in behavior. Have a concern and conviction of sin.
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Respond to a particular lesson. Need to linger near or after Devotions, Bible Study, or prayer. Have sincere questions about the death of Christ. Have the intellectual comprehension of the salvation plan. The leader should Believe God wants boys to be born again. Believe that boys must be born again. Believe that the Holy Spirit will convict and convert sinners. Believe that everyone is commissioned to spread the Word. Pray each day for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Memorize Scripture verses. Mark Scripture verses in your Bible. Practice, practice, practice.
Scripture Verses for Leaders to Mark and Memorize
John 1:12: “To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 3:16: “‘God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’” Romans 3:23: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 6:23: “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Revelation 3:20: “‘Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.’”
Tips in Working With Boys Be a born-again Christian yourself. Give every boy the opportunity to receive Jesus into his heart and become a member of God’s family.
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Have a Bible or New Testament ready to use at every meeting and outing. Teach a boy about salvation before asking him to become a member of God’s family. Be gentle and sensitive; don’t force, push, or pressure a boy into accepting Christ. Have only one leader at a time talking to a boy about Christ. Keep your breath sweet with gum, mints, etc.
Soul-Winning Plan Try to talk to a boy one-on-one, a little removed from the rest of the group, but not alone. Sit close enough to the boy to show him verses in your Bible. Use the boy’s name and speak in a relaxed, informal voice. Here is one example to use to lead a boy to Christ. There are many others.
Admit
Admit you are a sinner in need of a Savior. “There is no one righteous, no even one . . . . all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:10,23 (See Romans 5:8; 6:23.)
Believe and Become Believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that God raised Him from the dead. Put your trust in Him as your only hope of salvation. “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:13 Become a child of God by receiving Christ. “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” John 1:12 (See Revelation 3:20.)
Confess and Commit
Confess your sins and that Jesus Christ is your Lord. “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9 (See verse 10.) Commit your life to following Jesus. “[Jesus said,] ‘Whoever serves me must follow me.’” John 12:26.
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The Value of a Boy Christ could have entered our world as a mature adult, but He chose to pass through the years of childhood and adolescence and finally emerge into adulthood. Among the Jews, children are appreciated, loved, and nurtured with great care. Josephus, the great Jewish historian, wrote, “Our principal care of all is this, to educate our children well.” Jesus used a child as an example (Matthew 18:3). He made time in His busy schedule for children (Mark 10:14). Jesus warned against despising them (Matthew 18:10). He promised a reward for kindness to children (Matthew 10:42). Jesus commanded reception of them (Mark 9:37). Charles Spurgeon stated, “Young Christians do become the best Christians. Early piety is usually eminent piety; so seek to catch the children while they are young, and train them for the Lord, then they will be ready to serve their generation in their turn.”2
Words That Boys Need to Hear “I’m so fortunate to have you in my group.” “You are a great helper.” “I like it when you try so hard.” “Let’s talk about it.” “I’m sorry.” “You’re special to me.” “You’re a great kid.” Discovery Rangers provides opportunities for boys to establish and grow in their relationship with Jesus. The program also provides avenues for the leaders to mentor the boys in their group—reaching, teaching, and keeping them for Christ. These meeting plans and additional helps are provided to assist you in this ministry to boys. God bless you as you teach boys how to become young men of God.
1The
Life and Works of Flavius Josephus, trans. William Whitson, 1736 (Sage Digital Library), 1822. CD-ROM. 2The Spurgeon Sermon Collection: 55 Selected Expositions (Sage Digital Library), 671. CD-ROM. Endnotes
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