map and compass - hkr 3220 mun

HKR 3220Roy MooreJune 18th, 2015

Unit 2: Navigation Lesson #3

Using a Map and Compass Together

Learning Objectives:

Find a bearing from a map with a compass

Learn to aim off to find a bearing for tricky locations (streams/trail junctions)

Understanding how to compensate for declination when taking/following a bearing

Parts of a Compass


Activity #1: Finding a bearing from start to finish

Activity is best conducted using a full map

Identify start/stop locations on map and connect locations together with straight line using a pencil

Lay compass flat on map and position side of compass baseplate along pencil line

Using a Map and Compass together

Activity #1: Finding a bearing from start to finish (Cont.)

Back end of compass positioned at starting location, front end pointing to destination

Turn compass dial until orienteering arrow within dial is pointing north (top of map) and read bearing on compass

Using a Map and Compass together

Activity #2: Aiming off with a compass

Activity is best conducted using a full map

Identify start/stop locations on map and connect locations together with straight line using a pencil

Lay compass flat on map and position side of compass baseplate along pencil line


Activity #2: Aiming off with a compass (Cont.)

After adjusting 5 degrees, place “red in bed” again to proceed toward destination

Aiming off must be predetermined, that is to know whether to travel left or right upon arrival in order to reach intended destination


Activity #3: Declination

Declination refers to difference in angle between magnetic north and grid north on topographic map

Declinations are unique for each location on topographic map, can be found in map’s margin

Necessary when traveling outdoors in order to avoid following incorrect route and missing intended destination


West declination means magnetic-north line falls left of true/grid north, east declination means magnetic-north lines falls right of true/grid north

Declination degrees added to compass bearing for west declination (“West is best”), subtracted for east declination (“East is least”)

Activity #3: Declination (Cont.)


References:

Redmond, K. Foran, A. Dwyer, S. (2010). Quality Lesson Plans for Outdoor Education. Unit 2: Navigational Lessons, Pages 98-102.