Record Book Corner
Sparks Achievement Program
The Spark Achievement levels are intended to provide new members with an introduction to 4-
H and to help members through the discovery process to identify a member’s spark(s). A spark
is something you’re passionate about; it really fires you up and gives you joy and energy. A
spark comes from deep inside of you and is an important part of who you are. A spark may be
an interest, skill, quality or passion. Your spark is also something you use to make a positive
difference in the world. It might be anything from playing a musical instrument to rebuilding
antique cars, from leading a 4-H project to caring for animals at a shelter. Your spark can also
be a way of being in the world, like kindness, happiness, or mindfulness.
Resources
CA Achievement Program Form and links
Record Books
What are they and why are they important?
The 4-H program has a long history of record keeping. The focus reflects the importance of this life skill in our daily lives. In 4-H, young people have tracked their activities, events, profits and losses, skill development and learning experiences, and much more using the iconic 4-H Record Book. In addition to record keeping, the 4-H Record Book gives members an opportunity to reflect on their year, measure their achievements and growth, and set goals, and develop plans to meet those goals.
Why have 4-H record books?
4-H Record Books serve a variety of purposes in the California 4-H Youth Development Program.
- 4-H Record Books give members an opportunity to reflect on their yearly work. They document their skill development and their learning experiences in a written report. 4-H members measure their achievements and growth in their total years in 4-H.
- 4-H Record Books encourage members to set goals, pursue strategies to meet those goals, and to shift gears in the face of challenges and obstacles. Completion of the Personal Development Report awards 4-H members for participation in 4-H activities, which provides an incentive for participation, learning, and achievement.
- Completing a 4-H Record Book is a process where 4-H members record project and club work. Records management (RM) is a competency skill to identify, create, classify, archive, and preserve records. The 4-H Record Book teaches 4-H members these skills through a standard format.