3.G.1.1. Students are able to identify and use map components

Looking Ahead

What Is A Map? Maps are tools we use to help orient ourselves. Maps can be very simple; they may just show the layout of your house, your street, or your classroom. Maps can also be more complex; they may show your city, your state, or even the world.

Important Parts Of A Map Title Map key Cardinal directions Intermediate directions Labeling a map

Adding A Title To A Map It is important to add a title to the map so we know what the map is showing. World Map

Adding A Key A key, also known as a legend, is an essential part of making a map. A key is like the instructions for the map; it gives you the information you need to be able to read it. A key can include different colors, different patterns, and different shapes. These all represent different things on the map.

Compass Rose – Cardinal Directions The first thing you need to do when looking at a map or trying to use a map to go somewhere is figure out which direction is which. There are 4 main directions that we follow; North, East, South, and West. We call these the Cardinal Directions. You can easily find which direction is which by looking at your map for the Compass Rose.

Compass Rose – Intermediate Directions In addition to the 4 main directions we follow, there are also what are called intermediate directions. These are the directions that are halfway between the cardinal points. The intermediate directions are northeast, southeast, northwest, and southwest. For example, if I’m going to my grandma’s house and she lives not straight north and not straight east of me, but in between, I would take a northeast route to get to her house.

Labeling A Map Another important part of making a map is labeling it. We need to label our maps so that we can more easily navigate it. For example, on a world map, we would label the bodies of water in addition to the 7 continents. On a state map, we would probably label cities and towns and possibly landmarks or rivers. Finally, on a city map, we would probably label major streets, hospitals, schools, and parks.

Labeled vs. Unlabeled Which one would you rather look at when trying to find the city of Buffalo, South Dakota?