3 to 5 questions about the notes TOPIC: Topographic Maps OBJECTIVE: To understand how to read a topographic map ESSENTIAL QUESTION: How does a topographic map show the elevation of the land? Contour lines – connects points on a map that have the same elevation. Contour lines can never intersect because any given point cannot be at two different elevations. Contour lines that are close together indicate a steep slope. Contour lines that are farther apart indicate a flat surface. When a river is on the map, the “V” always points upstream. Advantage of a topographic map is that it allows you to visualize actual changes in elevation as if it were a 3D model. A topographic map shows differences in elevation through the use of contour lines. QUESTIONS/MAIN IDEAS 3 to 5 questions about the notes