Mapping Scout Interest Badge
Maps do more than help you find your way—they tell the story of a place. The Mapping Scout Interest Badge challenges you to look beyond simply reading maps and discover how they are created. You'll learn to measure, record and interpret the landscape, produce your own accurate maps, and use both traditional surveying techniques and modern mapping tools. Along the way you'll develop practical outdoor skills, attention to detail and a deeper understanding of the world around you. Badge Requirements
Badge Requirements
.png)
- Prerequisite Knowledge and Training
Have passed the requirements for the following Scoutcraft Badge and be prepared to demonstrate any of those requirements: - Select the Right Map
Demonstrate your ability to select an appropriate map for different outdoor activities by:- Compare at least three maps of the same area produced at different scales.
- Explain how map scale affects the amount of detail shown and why different scales are used for different mapping purposes.
- Identify the correct South African topographical map sheet for a given location and explain how the map sheet numbering system helps you select the correct map.
- Explain why it is important to use the latest available map and reliable mapping information when planning an outdoor activity.
- Analyse the Landscape
Using a 1:50 000 topographical map supplied by the examiner:- Interpret the contour lines to identify the shape of the land between two selected points.
- Determine whether the two selected points are intervisible.
- Estimate the average gradient between the two selected points.
- Draw a simple terrain profile showing the ground between the two selected points.
- Determine Your Position
Using a topographical map, a magnetic compass and at least two clearly identifiable landmarks:- Plan and describe how you will survey the area, including the method you will use to establish positions and reference points.
- Select suitable landmarks and describe how your choice affects the accuracy of your position.
- Estimate the accuracy of your result and identify at least two possible sources of error.
- Survey and Record the Ground
Using a plane table or another suitable field surveying method approved by the examiner, survey an open area of approximately 2–4 hectares. During the survey:- Plan and describe how you will survey the area, including the method you will use to establish positions and reference points.
- Collect measurements and observations using suitable Scouting techniques such as sightings, back bearings, triangulation, tape measurements, pacing and offsets.
- Record your measurements and observations clearly in a field notebook or digital field record.
- Demonstrate how you checked the accuracy of your measurements and identify any corrections made during the survey.
- Submit your completed field records together with the finished map produced in Requirement
- Note: Suitable methods could include:
- Compass bearings or back bearings and pacing
- Tape and offset survey
- Compass and tape survey
- Improvised plane table and sightings
- Baseline and offset survey
- Triangulation
- Produce a Map
Using the field records collected during Requirement 5:- Produce a neat, accurate, scaled map of the survey area.
- Include the following on your map:
- Title
- North point
- Scale
- Legend using appropriate map symbols
- Boundaries
- Significant natural and man-made features
- Produce a map that is clear, accurate and can be used by another person to identify the mapped features.
- Identify any assumptions or estimations made during the mapping process.
- Present your completed map to the examiner and explain how the information collected during your survey was used to produce your map.
- Note: A hand-drawn or digitally produced map may be submitted. A strip map may be used as an additional mapping activity where appropriate.
- Map a Route
- Using the completed map you produced in Requirement 6, create a simple strip map of a route of at least 2 km. Use a compass and appropriate methods of estimating or measuring distance to record the route. Include significant landmarks, junctions and other features that would help another Scout follow the route.
- Ask another Scout or Patrol member to use your strip map to follow the route.
- Locate Positions on a Map
Demonstrate your ability to use South African coordinate systems.- Determine the X and Y grid references of at least five given locations on a 1:50 000 topographical map.
- Locate at least five positions from supplied grid references.
- Identify the latitude and longitude of a given location on the map.
- Use either a grid reference or latitude and longitude, as directed by the examiner, to identify and communicate the location of a feature on the map.
- Using the completed map you produced in Requirement 6, lead the examiner or a Patrol member to at least three features shown on your map and demonstrate that the features are accurately represented.
Recommended Age Range: The Mapping Scout Interest Badge is recommended for Scouts aged 14 to 17 years. At this stage, Scouts already understand how to use maps and are ready to explore how they are created. The badge develops observation, precision, planning and problem-solving through practical fieldwork, while introducing mapping techniques that support outdoor adventure, conservation, environmental projects and future careers.
Badge Examiner: Training and examination for this badge must be conducted by a suitably qualified individual who has relevant experience or formal training in the specific field of expertise being assessed. The ideal examiner should be an experienced Adult Leader or another suitably qualified person with practical experience in mapping, surveying or navigation. Suitable examiners may include land surveyors, GIS specialists, cartographers, environmental scientists, orienteering officials, conservation staff, search and rescue personnel, or experienced outdoor navigators who regularly create or use maps.
Note to the Examiner:
- The purpose of this badge is to assess a Scout's ability to survey an area and produce an accurate, usable map using appropriate field surveying techniques. The emphasis should be on practical fieldwork and map production rather than theoretical knowledge.
- Wherever possible, assess the requirements during hikes, camps, environmental projects, or other outdoor activities rather than through classroom-based exercises.
- Scouts may use any suitable field surveying method approved by the examiner, including an improvised plane table, compass and tape survey, tape and offset survey, compass bearings and pacing, triangulation, or baseline and offset survey. The method chosen is less important than the Scout's ability to collect accurate field data and produce a reliable map.
- Assess the Scout's ability to plan the survey, collect and record measurements systematically, check the accuracy of their work, and produce a map that accurately represents the survey area. The quality of the finished map should reflect the quality of the fieldwork.
- Minor surveying or plotting errors are part of the learning process. Assess the Scout's ability to recognise, explain and correct errors where appropriate, rather than expecting perfect accuracy throughout.
- The completed map should be clear, accurate and fit for purpose. It should contain the required cartographic elements and be usable by another person to identify features in the survey area.
- The survey area should be appropriate to the Scout's age, experience and the available time, while providing sufficient detail to demonstrate competence in field surveying and map production. Ensure suitable supervision and appropriate safety measures are in place throughout the survey.
Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.
Badge Requirements in printable PDF format
What You Need First
The following badges must be completed before undertaking this badge:
Explore More Opportunities
- My Scout Journey - An overview of your path in Scouting - from joining to earning top awards like the Springbok Award.
- Scout Advancement Programme - The core steps Scouts follow to build skills and earn theme badges and advancement badges.
- Scoutcraft Badges - Aimed at Scouts 11 to 13. Fun, hands-on badges that build confidence, essential skills, and lay the foundation for Interest Badges.
- Scout Interest Badges - Aimed at Scouts 13 and older. Badges that promote personal growth through exploring interests, hobbies, and skills.
- Scout Challenge Awards - Special awards for leadership, service, and reaching top milestones in Scouting.
 | Copyright Notice |