How do I set up an orienteering course for scouts?
Set up a 100-foot course near your meeting place. As Scouts arrive, have them walk the course and calculate their pace (how far they travel every two steps). Draw a large chalk circle on the parking lot. Place an index card marked “North” at the northernmost point.
What is a handrail in orienteering?
Handrails. When you first start orienteering you will be using “handrails” all the time. “Handrails” are line features such as paths, fences or streams. They are excellent navigational aids providing safe routes between controls. You simply follow the feature without having to keep looking at the map or compass.
How do you use a compass and map together?
Place your compass on the map with the direction of travel arrow pointing toward the top of the map. Rotate the bezel so that N (north) is lined up with the direction of travel arrow. Slide the baseplate until one of its straight edges aligns with either the left or right edge of your map.
Where can I get orienteering maps?
Maps for these courses might be available at the parks or online. The website of a local orienteering club is your best place to find permanent courses in your area.
What do all good orienteering compasses have?
A good orienteering compass has these features:
- Clear base plate that allows you to see the map underneath.
- Straight sides for aligning two points or for drawing lines.
- Liquid-filled needle housing that keeps the magnetic needle relatively steady when taking readings.
How do you make an orienteering scavenger hunt?
Leave your first clue at the starting point. Then go to the place you described in the clue and look around for your next destination. Write a clue for that destination; leave it where you are standing and move on to continue writing clues. If you have multiple teams, have them all end up in the same place.
How can I help my troop prepare for orienteering?
Teach Scouts basic map and compass skills. Give Scouts multiple opportunities to practice their map and compass skills. Introduce Scouts to the sport of orienteering. Help Scouts work toward the Orienteering merit badge. Foster self-confidence and team building. Click above for fillable troop meeting planning form. What will our main event be?
How do you set up a compass course for Scouts?
Set up a 100-foot course near your meeting place. As Scouts arrive, have them walk the course and calculate their pace (how far they travel every two steps). Draw a large chalk circle on the parking lot. Place an index card marked “North” at the northernmost point. As Scouts arrive, give them index cards marked with other compass points.
How to orient a compass on a map?
Map & Compass 101 – Orienting Your Map •Step by Step 1 – 2 – 3 1– set your map on the ground; turn your declination adjusted compass dial so due North is at the index pointer 2– place your compass on the map with the Edge of the baseplate parallel to the North South meridians on the map
What skills are needed to participate in an orienteering meet?
Learn the basics of participating in an orienteering meet, including using an orienteering map, finding control points, and punching control cards or using e-punches. Review the skills above.