Using Maps and Globes
Elements of Maps and Globes Title Symbols Labels Color Latitude Lines Longitude Line Compass Rose Scale Legend or key Locator Globe
Title
Symbols
Labels
Color
Latitude and Longitude Lines
Compass Rose
Scale
Key or Legend
Globe Locator
Hemispheres Geographers use a system of an imaginary lines that crisscross the globe. The equator circles the middle of the earth like a belt from East to West. Dividing it into two half spheres, the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The Prime Meridian circles the earth from North to South. Dividing it into two half spheres, the Eastern and Western Hemispheres.
Understanding Latitude and Longitude Lines on globes and maps provide information that can help us locate places on the Earth.
Latitude or Parallels Circle the earth parallel to the equator. This measures distance north or south of the equator in degrees. The equator is zero degrees latitude. The North Pole is 90N
Longitude or Meridians Circle the Earth from pole to pole. This measures distance from east or west of the prime meridian. The prime meridian is zero degrees longitude.
Absolute Location The grid system formed by lines of latitude and longitude makes it possible to find an absolute location of a place.