How do you find declination on a map?

In North America, magnetic declination varies from 30 degrees East in Alaska to 20 degrees West in Labrador, Maine. The degrees of declination for an area are usually located on the bottom margin of the map near the north arrow, or they can be located using a declination chart.

Why must you consider declination when using a map and compass together?

One of the most confounding aspects of using a compass is declination. Declination is the difference between true north and magnetic north. If you take bearing in the field and want to use it on a map (or visa versa), you must account for this difference.

How do you teach map and compass skills?

1. When teaching map and compass, start with the basic idea of what a map is.
2. For younger age groups, introduce the idea of directions and the purpose of a compass, but avoid getting into much detail about compasses.
3. Use a combination of indoor and outdoor settings for teaching.
4. Progressive teaching.

What is map and compass navigation?

Basic Map and Compass Navigation. The north marker on the compass’ bezel should point north on the map. The number that aligns with your index line is your bearing. To follow that bearing, turn your body until the needle is inside the orienting arrow. The direction-of-travel arrow now points toward your destination.

How do you use a compass to find true north?

To find true north, turn the bezel the same magnitude and direction as your declination value. Most compasses will have degree markers on the bezel to help you do this. Next, line up your needle and your orienting arrow by turning your body again. You should now be facing true north!

How do you measure the declination of a compass?

Take an oil-based Magic Marker and place a mark at the declination angle on top of the plastic capsule which houses the compass needle (see illustration, below). For example, if your declination is 10 degrees west, place a mark at 350 degrees (360 degrees minus 10 degrees).

How do you adjust a map for magnetic declination?

Typically a (good) map will have the bearing (positive or negative) that you should use to adjust for magnetic declination. This is sometimes in the form of a small compass or written as text. Often placed near the scale and legends of your map.

How do you use a compass on a map?

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.

How do you use a magic marker on a compass?

To do so, set the compass at 0 degrees. Take an oil-based Magic Marker and place a mark at the declination angle on top of the plastic capsule which houses the compass needle (see illustration, below). For example, if your declination is 10 degrees west, place a mark at 350 degrees (360 degrees minus 10 degrees).