If you have ever been camping or hiking you may have used a compass and a map to find your way. By using these tools you can keep from getting lost in the woods. Below is a description of how you would use a compass with a topographic map to determine the direction you would need to walk in order to reach your destination.

Use the controllers on the movie screen to begin. Read along if you wish.

The first step is to find the magnetic north symbol in the map legend. From the magnetic north line, draw paralell lines on the map as demonstrated hear. If you do not have a ruler, you can use the edge of your compass.

 

The second step is to locate your destination. Two circles have been drawn on this map to show the original location and the destination. Once the destination is determined the edge of the compass should be aligned with the line of travel. Once the compass is aligned, the dial should be turned so that the blue lines on the base of the compass are parallel to the magnetic north lines drawn on the map. Now the degrees can be read on the compass. The degrees are read using the north- seeking arrow on the compass. Knowing the degree of the destination, hold the compass in front of you at chest height. Turn your body until the compass reads the degrees you just determined on the map. Identify a visible landmark and walk in that direction.