Class Notes 9.12.13 - Map Skills

Globes and Maps 

What are the weaknesses of globes?

• scale is too small for many purposes and everyday use
• scale - relative size; ex. 1.5 inches = 1000 miles

What are the different types of maps?
 

1. Physical - a map that shows only physical features and landforms (i.e. no man-made objects)
2. Political - shows different boundaries of states and countries
3. Thematic - shows a variety of geography-based information

Parts of a Map

• compass rose - shows direction; North is usually at the top
• key (legend) - identifies all of the symbols and colors used
• scale bar - shows how distances on the map compare to actual distances on the ground

Relative vs Absolute Location

• absolute location  - the fixed location of an object or place that does not change (i.e. latitude and longitude)
• relative location - a location relative to another object or place; often changes (i.e. Mr. Alpert is standing beside Jordan)