Mapping Scout Interest Badge

Badge Requirements

Mapping

1. Have passed the Map Reading Scoutcraft Badge and be prepared to demonstrate any of those requirements. OR Complete all the requirements for the Map Reading Scoutcraft Badge.
2. Explain the relationship between different map scales, the importance of selecting the correct map for the task and of using the latest information available. Explain the system of numbering maps and how to obtain maps.
3. Demonstrate your knowledge of contours by carrying out an exercise set by the examiner to determine intervisibility and the gradient of slopes. Draw a rough profile between two points on a map selected by the examiner.
4. Make a map to scale 1:500, using an improvised plane table, of a fairly open area of land about 4 hectares (40 000 m2) in extent specified by the examiner. The area should be of such complexity that a baseline with at least four legs would be required, and approximately 100 sightings (total of sightings from all stations) and approximately 50 other measurements must be taken. In rural areas, the examiner will specify the amount of detail required to provide a test of equivalent difficulty. Rough maps and field sheets must be produced for inspection by the examiner.
5. Make a strip map to scale 1:2000 of a minimum of a one-kilometre section of road specified by the examiner. Show all the main features which are visible for a reasonable distance on each side of the road. Field records must be kept in a systematic manner and field sheets or field books must be produced for inspection.
6. Demonstrate an understanding of lines of latitude and longitude, and the grid reference system based on zero X at the equator and zero Y at a line of longitude used by land surveyors in South Africa (as shown on maps of the 1:50 000 and 1:10 000 series). Determine the grid references for given points on a map and find the correct points for given grid references.

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

• Mapping Scout Interest Badge (PDF)

What You Need First

The following Scoutcraft and/or Interest Badges must be completed before undertaking this badge:

• Map Reading Scoutcraft 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.
• Mapping
• Hiking
• Basic Compass (PDF)
• Contour Lines (PDF)
• Conventional Signs (PDF)
• The Romer (PDF)
• Plane Table Mapping - the basics (PDF)
• Plane Table Mapping (PDF)