Map Reading Scoutcraft Badge

In order to enjoy the great outdoors and make sure you don't get lost, it is important to understand where you are in the world and how to get from point A to point B. This badge will give you this basic skill to help you enjoy all you outdoor activities.

Badge requirements

Map Reading

1. Know some of the different types of compasses that are available and explain how a compass works. Know some of the problems that can occur in using a compass, and how to overcome these.
2. Know the difference between the following and demonstrate the ability to find each of these, both on a map and on the ground:
   1. True North
   2. Grid North
   3. Magnetic North
3. Explain the cause and effect of magnetic declination and know the relationship between true bearings and magnetic bearings. Demonstrate how to convert bearings on a map to compass bearings, and vice versa.
4. Demonstrate a working knowledge of bearings and back bearings by being able to:
   1. Identify a feature from a map, by taking bearings to locate it on the ground.
   2. Carry out an exercise in the field to determine your position on a map by the resection method using back bearings.
   3. Use a magnetic compass to follow a compass trail of about one kilometre in length, consisting of seven or eight distances and bearings (both True and Magnetic).
5. Carry out the following:
   1. Explain what a map is.
   2. Know some of the types of maps that are available, and what information each of these can provide.
   3. Demonstrate a knowledge of scale and be able to do conversions between RF (Representative Fraction) scale, graphic scale, and statement scale.
   4. Demonstrate a knowledge of conventional map symbols.
   5. Be able to read contours on a map, and explain how contours indicate slopes, gradients, and major landforms.
   6. Correctly measure a distance on a map and calculate the actual distance that this represents on the ground.
   7. Set a map using a compass, and by ground to map comparison.
6. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of all the features on a map by carrying out an imaginary hike of approximately 25 km between two points on a map selected by the examiner. Describe the route in detail and indicate an area which could serve as an overnight stop. Be able to estimate hiking speeds over different terrains indicated on the map by the examiner

Requirements in PDF

• Map Reading (PDF)

See also

• Scoutcraft Badges
• Mapping Interest Badge
• Basic Compass
• Contour Lines
• Conventional Signs
• The Romer
• Plane Table Mapping - the basics
• Plane Table Mapping