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Surveying
Intellectual Core2026.1 Draft

Surveying

To develop precision, discipline, and applied problem-solving through hands-on land surveying, measurement, mapping, and ethical understanding of property, technology, and professional responsibility.

Field safety and environmental awarenessMeasurement accuracy and instrument handlingMapping, plotting, and spatial reasoningUse and limits of GPS and emerging technologyProfessional ethics, property rights, and career awareness

From Discover to Reflect

Every Saints Global badge follows the same arc — learn it, plan it, do it, then reflect on what changed.

  1. Step 1 · DISCOVER

    Discover

    Learn what this badge is really about.

    Demonstrate first aid responses for injuries and conditions that could occur while surveying, and explain why surveyors must identify local poisonous plants and animals.

  2. Step 2 · PLAN

    Plan

    Get ready — gather what you need.

    Set up a surveying instrument on a designated corner point and plan a radial measurement survey of a five-sided lot.

  3. Step 3 · ACT

    Act

    Do the work, in the real world.

    Conduct a radial survey of a five-sided lot and nearby topographic features using traditional instruments.

    • Measure and record angles and distances to each corner
    • Measure and record five nearby topographic features
    • Maintain clear, organized field notes

    Measure the same points using GPS technology and compare results to traditional measurements.

    • Record GPS distances to selected points
    • Compare differences between methods
    • Explain reasons for discrepancies

    Plot collected field data and produce a scaled map of the surveyed lot.

    • Plot points using a protractor and scale
    • Include north arrow, scale bar, title, date, and diagram
    • Maintain proportional accuracy

    Establish elevations using a benchmark and leveling equipment.

    • Assign an assumed elevation to a benchmark
    • Measure and record rod readings
    • Calculate elevations of remaining points

    Obtain and explain the key parts of a property deed and why they matter.

  4. Step 4 · REFLECT

    Reflect

    Look back and see what changed.

    Explain how GPS, drones, laser scanning, and other emerging technologies are changing surveying, including strengths and limitations.

    Describe the importance of licensed surveyors, types of surveying, and career pathways in surveying and related fields.

Log requirements in the portal

Members track progress, submit completion, and request advisor sign-off through the Saints Global member portal.