Introduction to Maps Science 8th grade

Vocabulary Scale – relationship between the distance on the map and the actual distance on land Key – symbols that represent the actual item on land Cardinal directions – terms used to describe direction (north, south, east, west), Title – indicates what type of map it is and the area it covers Latitude and longitude – the imaginary lines used to help us locate any place on the Earth’s surface by using its coordinates

Types of Maps There are various types of maps used in many various occupations. When using a map you need to remember that usually the top of the map is considered north. The scale will determine whether you are seeing the details of a large area or a small area of Earth http://historymatters.gmu.edu/mse/maps/html

Globes Globes usually use a very small scale They show political boundaries and bodies of water. They are normally used to locate countries and oceans. In science you may see globes showing the surface of the moon, Mars, or the stars in the sky.

Road Maps Road maps have a larger scale than that of a globe. A road map emphasizes the roads, towns, and sometimes rivers and railways. This type of map is very useful for driving from one place to another. http://travel.yahoo.com/p-map-479577-map_of_el_paso_tx-i

Topographical Map A topographical map will normally use a large scale. This type of map uses contour lines to show the shape of Earth’s surface. When the lines are close together you know the slope is steep and when they are far apart it is shallow. This map is used when hiking or planning a building site or a new road. http://www.topozone.com/

Raised relief and Shaded relief Maps These also show elevation but are not as precise. These use texture to show land features. A shaded relief map indicates shadows from a late day sun.

Satellite or Aerial Maps The scale on these types of maps can be either small or large. They are actually a picture of Earth’s surface. Normally only certain features can be seen clearly. Many times, depending on the map, color will not be correct. http://terraserver.microsoft.com/image.aspx

Other Maps There are also earthquake maps showing location and magnitude, bedrock maps for geology showing rock type and age of rocks, river drainage maps for looking at watersheds, and nautical charts used to navigate oceans or large lakes. Newer maps may even include the lines used for GPS navigation.

Maps

Map Activity On the lab tables there are various types of maps . On your paper you will number 1 thru 10. In your group you will move clockwise around the room looking at the various maps laid out. For each map you will tell me the type of map it is, what the map scale is, what the map shows, and what it would be useful for.

Quiz Give either a teacher made quiz or repeat map activity with a different type of map. Maps may be downloaded or ask someone who has National Geographic magazines. They send maps in their magazine all the time.