Parts of a Map

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Parts of a Map
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Parts of a Map

• Most maps have the following elements, which are
  necessary to read and understand them

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Title

• The title explains the subject of the map and
  gives you an idea of what information the map
  conveys

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Compass Rose

• The compass rose shows you directions on a map
• Cardinal directions are north, south, east, and
  west
• Intermediate directions are northeast, northwest,
  southwest, and southeast

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Compass Rose
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Labels

• Labels are words or phrases that explain features
  on the map

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Legend/Key

• A legend or key lists and explains the symbols
  and use of color on the map

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Lines of Latitude

• These are imaginary lines that measure distance
  north or south of the equator and run from east
  to west on the map.
• These lines are also called parallels because
  they do not touch.

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Lines of Latitude

• Some important lines of latitude are
• The Equator - 0
• The Tropic of Cancer - 23º 26 N
• The Tropic of Capricorn - 23º 26 S
• The Arctic Circle - 66 33 N
• The Antarctic Circle - 66 33 S

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Lines of Longitude

• These are imaginary lines that measure distance
  east or west of the prime meridian and run from
  north to south on the map. These lines connect
  at the north and south poles. These lines are
  also called meridians.

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Absolute and Relative Location

• Latitude and longitude lines are used to find
  absolute location. This is an exact point on the
  earth.
• Relative location is NOT an exact location.
  People use direction and distance to give a
  general idea of where something is.

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Scale

• Scale shows the ratio between a unit of length on
  the map and a unit of distance on the earth

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Scale

• Ratio Scale - Shows the distance on the map
  compared to real earth measurement (1
  30,000,000, 1 500 miles)
• Bar Scale - Shows the ratio of distance on the
  map to distance on the earth

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Symbols

• Symbols represent items such as capital cities,
  economic activities, or natural resources. Check
  the map legend for more details

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Parts of a Map