Cub Scout Academics

Map and Compass Belt Loop

Map and Compass

The requirements listed below are taken from the

Click here to see the current requirements.

This subject was added in 2002.

Webelos Scouts that earn the Map and Compass Belt Loop while a Webelos Scout
also satisfy requirement 13 for the Traveler Activity Badge.



Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

  1. Show how to orient a map. Find three landmarks on the map
  2. Explain how a compass works.
  3. Draw a map of your neighborhood. Label the streets and plot the route you take to get to a place that you often visit.

Academics Pin

Earn the Map and Compass belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

  1. Define cartography.
  2. Make a poster showing 10 map symbols and their meaning.
  3. Read a book or story about a famous explorer or navigator. Tell your den or family what you learned.
  4. Make a simple compass with a magnet and pin.
  5. Explain the difference between latitude and longitude and show them on a map or globe.
  6. Draw a compass rose for a map. Label north, south, east, and west.
  7. Study a blank map of the United States of America. Label your state, and the states that share its boundary lines.
  8. In the field, show how to take a compass bearing and how to follow it.
  9. Show how to measure distances, using a scale on a map legend.
  10. Measure your pace. Then layout a simple compass course for your den to try.
  11. Using a road map, determine how many miles it is between two major cities or familiar destinations.
  12. Explain what the different map colors can mean on a map.

Page updated on: May 30, 2013


(U.S. Scouting Service Project Donation)

(Ruth Lyons Memorial Donations)