| Map Reading |
| Map Reading & Compass Bearing 1. Introduction What is a map? A topographical map a mathematical determined presentation of a portion of the earth�s surface. Symbols, lines, colours and form on the map depicts the manmade and natural features on the real ground. Why are maps important? A map provides comprehensive information on the distance between, existence and location of, ground features such as routes of travels and communication, populated places and extent of vegetation cover. It supplies information on the geographical situation of a particular area. It also indicates variation in landforms and heights of ground features. Map reading covered the ability to interpret the symbols shown on the map and to understand the information given in pictorial or written form, but it must also comprise a true understanding of the ground portrayed and an appreciation of the reality and the value of the particular map being used. 2. Distance Measurement Scale of maps - All maps carry graphic liner scales from which any horizontal distance on the map may be measured in kilometers and meters, miles it yards, or using both. - A Liner map scale is always in the form shown in Fig 2.1 Measuring a straight line distance - Measure the distance between any 2 points using a piece of paper. - Place one end of the paper against one of the major division so that anther end lies against the sub-division to the left. See Fig 2.2 - Total distance is the sum of major division and sub-division to the left of the zero. Measuring a curved distance - Consider the road as a number of straight section - Using a piece of thread, lay the thread along the distance and follow along the curved distance - Mark both ends with a mark - Total distance is the distance of the 2 points marked Pacing - The skill of knowing how far you traveled is called pacing. Pacing is generally based on a unit of 100m. - The most efficient way of determining distance is by step counting: 1) Single step pacing � counting every stride 2) Double step pacing ---- counting every other stride |
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