The Basics of Maps

For the next posts I am focusing on general map work.

Lets start with the basics.

Maps are representations of the world created by people called cartographers to help other people navigate the world. Maps contain information tailored to a specific purpose.There are several types of maps. Each show different information. Most maps include a compass rose, which indicates which way is north, south, east and west. They also include a scale so you can estimate distances

Climate maps

give general information about the climate and precipitation (rain and snow) of a region. Cartographers use colours to show different climate or precipitation zones.

Economic or resource maps

feature the type of natural resources or economic activity that dominates an area. Cartographers use symbols to show the locations of natural resources or economic activities. For example, oranges on a map of Florida tell you that oranges are grown there.

Physical maps

illustrate the physical features of an area, such as the mountains, rivers and lakes. The water is usually shown in blue. Colours are used to show differences in land elevations. Green is typically used at lower elevations, and orange or brown indicate higher elevations.

Political maps

do not show physical features. Instead, they indicate state and national boundaries and capital and major cities. A capital city is usually marked with a star within a circle.

Road maps

show major motorways and roads, airports, railway lines, cities and other points of interest in an area. People use road maps to plan trips and for driving directions.

Topographic maps

include contour lines to show the shape and elevation of an area. Lines that are close together indicate steep terrain, and lines that are far apart indicate flat terrain.

Ideas for in the classroom probably a year 7 group:

• Have pupils list ways that we use maps. (mind map and make a class list.)  “Could we use a world map for these things?”  (No.)  What kind of maps would we need?
• Pupils could create a booklet. From a sheet given out they could then cut and glue definitions of various types of maps as they are introduced by the teacher. They could then cut out and glue an example map for each type
• Also there could be various maps posted and numbered around the room. In pairs, pupils must identify each type of map.