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 There are certain basic elements to every map. All maps will have some of these, but may not have all of them. Title – this explains the subject of the map and tells you what the map is about Compass Rose – this shows you the cardinal directions (N,S,E,W). Sometimes only North is shown on the compass rose.

Labels – words or phrases that explain features on the map Legend – Also called a key, it explains the symbols and colors used on a map Lines of Latitude – imaginary lines that measure the distance north or south of the equator. Lines of Longitude – imaginary lines that measure the distance east or west of the prime meridian

Scale – this shows the ratio between a unit of length on the map and a unit of distance on the earth Symbols – these can represent capital cities, economic activities, or natural resources. The legend explains these Colors – colors on maps can represent a wide range of information. The legend explains these

 A projection is a way of showing the curved surface of the earth on a flat map. Because the earth is round, there will be some distortion to aspects of the earth.  A planar projection is a projection onto a flat surface. This is usually done at either the north or south pole, and distorts both the size and shape of the land masses.

 Conical projections project the map onto a cone. This keeps the shape close to the original, but distorts land at the edges. They are used to show large landmasses that stretch east and west.  Compromise projections projects the map onto a cylinder. It shows the earth on one map, and there are 3 main types of compromise projections.

 The Mercator projection distorts the shapes of the continents at the poles, and compresses them at the equator.  The homolosine map divides the oceans to keep give an accurate depiction of the landmasses, but distances are not accurate.

 The Robinson projection shows the entire earth with nearly true depictions of the continents and oceans. The shapes of the landforms near the poles is distorted.

 There are two main types of maps we will be using: physical maps and political maps.  Physical maps show landforms and bodies of water found in a specific area. Colors, shading, and contour lines indicate altitude or elevation.  Political maps show features that humans have created, such as borders of countries, cities, states, or territories. Color or shading is used to differentiate between regions.

 Create a full page map of the area around your home. Include all of the elements needed to read a map. Be creative in using them.