At this entry level, students are introduced to the history, concepts and applications of tracking. UTS teaches the "step by step" method of finding sign. If students can find each successive footfall or sign indicating footfall, then, as they advance to higher levels of tracking, they will be much more productive and develop the skills necessary to be a good tracker. While learning the step-by-step method, you will be shown the subtleties of sign. You will learn to see the scrapes, scuffs, compressions, damaged vegetation, broken sticks, and much more.

The criteria for becoming Track Aware certified are as follows:

• Must accept the concept that wherever a person walks they leave sign
• Become familiar with and start using terminology found in the glossary and appropriately apply them to the sign found
• Be able to draw footprints found, take appropriate measurements and list any unique characteristics that can be determined
• Demonstrate proper use of the tracking stick
• Demonstrate proper team formation and each member’s function
• Develop communication skills and discuss the various parts of the sign seen, and listen to the team member’s discussion to mutually determine the appropriate sign
• Start becoming familiar with how to age sign
• Understand the "step-by-step" methodology of tracking