Scouts BSA Second Class Navigation Requirements Helps and Documents

Second Class requirement 3 is related to map and compass skills.  Scouts learn how to use these tools. Then they put these skills to use on a hike. They also learn about hiking safely.

3a. Demonstrate how a compass works and how to orient a map. Use a map to point out and tell the meaning of five map symbols.
3b. Using a compass and map together, take a 5-mile hike (or 10 miles by bike) approved by your adult leader and your parent or guardian.(2If you use a wheelchair or crutches, or if it is difficult for you to get around, you may substitute “trip” for “hike” in requirement 3b and 3c.)
3c. Describe some hazards or injuries that you might encounter on your hike and what you can do to help prevent them.
3d. Demonstrate how to find directions during the day and at night without using a compass or an electronic device

Helps for this requirement are listed below.

Personal Measurement Log for Orienteering

When you go on an orienteering course, you need to have some ways to measure things. Some of the methods used require you to have something of known length for comparison. A personal measurement log will help you with this.

Backpacking Troop Program Feature

This backpacking program feature offers the opportunity to learn more about hiking and low impact camping. A Scouts BSA Troop PLC can plan a whole month of activities incorporating a backpacking theme.

60 Hikes Within 60 Miles Book Series

We are coming up on some prime hiking season. In the spring the temperatures are mild and it isn't buggy yet. So I am reviewing my favorite hiking book - 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles. Hopefully there is one available in your area.

Orienteering Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Orienteering feature teaches Scouts to navigate unfamiliar territory using a map and compass. It also introduces them to the sport of orienteering, where participants race to find markers called controls.

Wilderness Survival Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Wilderness Survival program feature helps Scouts learn how to stay safe, warm, and dry when the unexpected happens during an outdoor adventure.

Maps, Compasses, and Declination

Scouts will be interested to learn that the north indicated by their compasses is not really true north. Instead it points to the magnetic north pole, which is not fixed. The difference between true north and magnetic north is called declination.

A Brief History of Maps

How did maps develop? How were early maps used? Have you ever heard of the Anaximander map? Who are some people and cultures from around the world who helped improve maps throughout the ages? How did cartography influence how we see ourselves?

Scouts BSA Second Class Rank Helps and Documents

Second Class is the rank a Scout can earn after Tenderfoot. The requirements for Second Class continue to teach the youth to the skills needed to advance in Scouts BSA.

Finding Direction Using a Watch

For the Second Class navigation requirements, Scouts must show how to find their way at day and night without a compass. This method only requires a watch.

Powdered Sports Drink Recipe

Sports drinks like Gatorade or Power Aid are designed to replenish the water and salt your body loses when you are active or exercising. You can mix up your own powdered mix to accomplish this for a fraction of the cost of purchasing these drinks by the bottle.