Two-Stick Method
How It Works
The two-stick method uses similar triangles to estimate the height of tall objects like trees or buildings. It's one of the most accurate field methods available to Scouts.
Materials Needed:
- Two sticks of different lengths
- A measuring tape or way to measure distance
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Find a straight stick (Stick A) about 12 inches long
- Find a second, shorter stick (Stick B) - about 1-2 inches long
- Hold Stick A vertically at arm's length
- Place Stick B horizontally across the top of Stick A
- Walk backward or forward until the top of Stick B aligns with the top of the object and the bottom of Stick A aligns with the base of the object
- Measure the distance from where you're standing to the base of the object
- Calculate the height using the formula:Height of object = (Length of Stick A ÷ Length of Stick B) × Your distance from the object
Interactive Example
If Stick A is 12 inches long, Stick B is 2 inches long, and you're standing 30 feet from the tree, how tall is the tree?
Tips for Accuracy
- Make sure Stick A is perfectly vertical
- Ensure Stick B is perfectly horizontal and perpendicular to Stick A
- Measure from your eye level to the base of the object
- If the object is on a hill, account for the difference in elevation