Map Basics

A. Parts of a Map

Symbols

Scale

Title

Key or Legend

Directional Finder

TITLE

Explains the purpose of the map

Symbols

Represent information that will not fit

KEY/LEGEND

Describes what each symbol and color means

Directional Finder

Shows direction

Scale

Measures distance

B. Large and Small Scale Maps

A large-scale map displays a relatively small section of the Earth’s surface with more detail

A small-scale map displays a relatively large section of the Earth’s surface with less detail

Scale may also be…

Expressed as a ratio of unit on map to actual number of units on Earth.

1:100,000 inches =1 inch on map is the equivalent of100,000 inches in the real world

The larger the second number, the smaller the map scale

C. Types of Maps

PhysicalPoliticalThematic

PHYSICAL MAPPhysical maps show the natural features of the earth.The focus is on natural not man-made features.Sometimes they are called topographical maps.

POLITICAL MAPSPolitical maps show man-made boundaries like cities, countries, states, etc.May also give detailed information about cities, roads, rivers, and lakes.

THEMATIC MAPSMaps that emphasize a single idea about an area. Also called special purpose maps.

Examples: Road maps, climate, elevation, population, religions, languages, etc.

Contour Maps

A map that shows elevations of the land by means of contour lines.

D.Map Changes

Changes in Knowledge over Time….

Early 15th Century View of the World

Columbus’s View of the World – 15th Century

The World Today

What changes do you see?

Changes in the World map since the 15th Century are due to an increase in information and technology.

Changes in Place Names Over Time

Up until 1895 owned by China1895-1945 Japanese ruled Taiwan (Formosa)1949 – ROC capital (Independent – Taiwan)

Changes in Boundaries Over Time

African Colonization: 1914 to 1990’s

Collapse of the Soviet Union 1989

Middle East: 1948 and 1967

Maps Reflect Perspectives

Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf?

Who might call this the East Sea?

Maps Reflect Disputed Areas

Yugoslavia: Ethnic divisions result in new countries.

Kashmir: India vs. Pakistan

Western Sahara