EDEXCEL GCSE FOUNDATION MATHS - What are Bearings

Edexcel GCSE Foundation Maths - What are Bearings?

Bearings are used to describe directions. They are measured clockwise from North and are always written as a three-figure bearing.

Understanding Bearings

• North: 000°
• East: 090°
• South: 180°
• West: 270°

Example:

A bearing of 045° means 45° clockwise from North.

Measuring Bearings

1. Draw a North line: Start by drawing a vertical line representing North.
2. Draw the line to the point: Draw a line from the starting point to the point you want to find the bearing of.
3. Measure the angle: Measure the angle between the North line and your line, clockwise from North.
4. Write the bearing: Write the angle as a three-figure bearing.

Examples

Example 1:

     N
     |
     | 
   45°|
     |
     |
     ------------>

     This is a bearing of 045°

Example 2:

     N
     |
     |
     | 
     |-------
     | 30° |
     |-------
     |
     |
     |

     This is a bearing of 330°

Example 3:

     N
     |
     | 
   60°|
     |
     |
     ------------>

     This is a bearing of 060°

Practice Problems

1. What is the bearing of a point that is due South-East?
2. What is the bearing of a point that is 30° clockwise from South?
3. If a point is at a bearing of 135°, what direction is it from North?

Key Points

• Bearings are always measured clockwise from North.
• Bearings are written as three-figure bearings.
• Understanding the cardinal directions (North, East, South, West) is essential for working with bearings.