Topographic Maps III: Back Azimuths and Triangulation

In this activity, students will learn the more advanced mapping skills of calculating back azimuths and triangulation. Using a local 7.5-minute series map, the teacher will select a starting point and an obstacle, have students follow an azimuth that leads them to the obstacle, let them construct a back azimuth and navigate around the obstacle while recording directions and distances. A number of viable solutions usually exist and can form the basis of a class discussion. For the triangulation portion of the exercise, the teacher will select and give grid coordinates for three points on the map and list the azimuths to be followed in the construction of a line through each point. Students will construct an azimuth-back azimuth line through each point until each end of the line hits a map margin. They will then record the coordinates and identify the object located at the intersection point of the three lines. Educational levels: Middle school, High school