1. Map Reading and Interpretation
Direction and Bearing

2. Each map conveys a message
Each map conveys a message. In map reading, it is necessary to understand the devices used to convey this message.
Devices:
Locational grid - latitude and longitude
Scale – measure distance
Symbols – identify natural and constructed features

3. Identifying Location
How could you describe the location of a place a friend needs to get to?
Location can be described / identified using:
Direction
Bearings

4. Direction Direction on maps may be indicated using: Compass Rose
Shows the points of a compass as shown on a map
Includes cardinal and intercardinal directions
The Cardinal Directions
The Intercardinal Directions
A Compass Rose

5. Compass Rose

6. Did your map have compass directions? Compass rose or a variation
If your map does not have a compass rose or any other direction indicator then it is assumed to have standard orientation.
Standard orientation
means that north is at the top of the map page.
Terminology: Do not use the term “up” to refer to the north. North is not higher than south. Do you think rivers flow north into the Arctic Ocean

7. Direction: Describing / Words
Cardinal direction
Uses north, south, east, west
Intercardinal direction
Uses northwest, northeast, southwest, southeast
Properly naming directions between cardinal and intercardinal points always uses the cardinal direction first:
Point between south and southeast
South-southeast

8. Bearing Bearings: Used when greater precision is required
Substitute the degrees of a circle for the named directions
Clockwise angle between a reference direction (magnetic North normally) and direction of object
Bearings

9. Think Direction/ Think Bearing

11. Describe the location of Point B from Point C:
Using the crosshair, the location is NNW.
A closer look – is it really NNW? Determine the direction more accurately.
Use bearings.
This takes you to a ballpark
For accuracy, use a protractor.
Place the base of the protractor on the north-south line
The center line is lined up with the east-west line
337o

12. What is the direction of B from A? Generally E
What is the bearing of A from B?
275o Actual Measure: _273_
What is the direction of A from C? Generally WNW
What is the bearing of C from A?
Actual Measure: 115o

13. Activity: Direction and Bearing
Using the map provided to practice determining direction and bearing.