Just like Scouts, no two fingerprints are the same.  Learn about fingerprints and how they are used to identify people.

Online Live Class, Instructor Alim Shabazz, cost $15 per Scout, 15 participants max.  For additional questions, contact Alim Shabazz, (808) 222-2205, alimshabazz@yahoo.com

Find Merit Badge Worksheet here: http://usscouts.org/mb/worksheets/Fingerprinting.pdf

REQUIREMENTS WITH SUGGESTED STUDY PREPARATION NOTES

1. Give a short history of fingerprinting. Tell the difference between civil and criminal identification.

This requirement will be covered in the class however, Scouts are encouraged to review this requirement and its components and see how much they can determine ahead of time prior to the class.  Preparation is important and Scouts will find that referencing the merit badge pamphlet will yield many of the answers that will help them be prepared for positive and active participation in the class.

2. Explain the difference between the automated fingerprint identification systems (AFIS) now used by law enforcement agencies and the biometric fingerprint systems used to control access to computers and places like buildings and airports.

While the counselor will facilitate discussion to allow Scouts the ability to explain their findings, Scouts should utilize the Fingerprinting Merit Badge pamphlet to review and prepare for this requirement prior to the class. Scouts are encouraged to bring any notes or other sources they prepared or used to ready themselves for this requirement.

3. Do the following:

a. Name the surfaces of the body where friction or papillary ridges are found.

b. Name the two basic principles supporting the science of fingerprints and give a brief explanation of each principle.

c. Explain what it takes to positively identify a person using fingerprints.

This requirement will be covered in the class however, Scouts are encouraged to review this requirement and its components and see how much they can determine ahead of time prior to the class.  Preparation is important and Scouts will find that referencing the merit badge pamphlet will yield many of the answers that will help them be prepared for positive and active participation in the class.

4. Take a clear set of prints using ONE of the following methods:

a. Make both rolled and plain impressions. Make these on an 8-by-8-inch fingerprint identification card available from your local police department or your counselor.

b. Using clear adhesive tape, a pencil, and plain paper, record your own fingerprints or those of another person.

This requirement will be covered completely within the class.

5. Show your merit badge counselor you can identify the three basic types of fingerprint patterns and their subcategories. Using your own hand, identify the types of patterns you see.

This requirement will be covered in the class however, it should be noted that Scouts will need to pay attention in order to learn the methods to completing