This analysis breaks down the skills that are the primary components of orienteering.  Links are provided to internet sites that are helpful in learning and teaching these concepts and skills.  You can also refer to the books listed on the reference list for further information.  Explanations of ways to teach and reinforce these concepts are included in the daily lesson plans.
 

Map reading skills: 
 

     scale representation of maps
          e.g., 1:24,000
     symbolic information contained on maps
         map symbols
         reading the margins
     coordinate systems
     contour representation on topographical maps
     determining distance and elevation
     estimation of travel time
 
 

Compass reading skills: 
 

    directions and degrees
         compass rose
     parts of a compass
        different types of compasses
     directions and bearings
     following a bearing
     traveling by compass
     orienteering with the compass
 
 
 

Map and compass skills combined: 

declination (magnetic variance)
     orienting the map using the compass
     traveling by map and compass
 
 

Fitness and land travel skills:
    Safety
    Conditioning
 
 

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