Geographical Skills: Cartographic Analysis, Remote Sensing, and Fieldwork Investigation · Summer Term

Six-Figure Grid References, Bearings, and Coordinate Systems on OS Maps

Students will learn to use four-figure grid references to locate features on simple maps.

Key Questions

  1. Apply six-figure Irish Grid reference notation to precisely locate and describe geographical features on 1:50,000 OS Ireland maps, and explain the practical significance of coordinate precision for emergency services dispatch, field archaeology recording, and environmental monitoring site documentation.
  2. Calculate straight-line and route distances using map scale ratios, determine magnetic bearings between specified locations, and assess how magnetic declination and the divergence between grid north and true north affect navigational accuracy in field conditions.
  3. Evaluate the positional accuracy limitations of paper-map coordinate systems relative to GPS/GNSS satellite positioning, and assess the implications of varying precision requirements for precision agriculture, flood inundation modelling, and infrastructure planning applications in Ireland.

NCCA Curriculum Specifications

NCCA: Primary - Maps, Globes and Graphical SkillsNCCA: Primary - Using Pictures, Maps and Globes
Class/Year: 5th Year
Subject: Exploring Our World: Global Connections and Local Landscapes
Unit: Geographical Skills: Cartographic Analysis, Remote Sensing, and Fieldwork Investigation
Period: Summer Term

Suggested Methodologies

Experiential Learning

Hands-on learn-by-doing with structured reflection

30–60 min

Learn more about Experiential Learning

Collaborative Problem-Solving

Structured group problem-solving with defined roles

25–50 min

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Stations Rotation

Rotate through different activity stations

35–55 min

Learn more about Stations Rotation

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