1. Map Basics

2. Equator and Prime Meridian

3. Equator Prime Meridian
Line circling the earth midway between the North and South Poles
Divides the earth into northern/southern hemispheres
Prime Meridian
North-south line that runs through Greenwich, England
Divides the earth into eastern/western hemispheres

4. Longitude Latitude Vertical line Horizontal line
Degrees east or west of Prime Meridian
Referred to as meridians
Latitude
Horizontal line
Degrees north or south of equator
Referred to as parallels

5. Latitude and Longitude

6. KEY
A list that explains what the symbols stand for

7. COMPASS ROSE A marker that indicates directions
Cardinal directions: north, south, east, & west
Intermediate directions: northeast, northwest, southeast, southwest

8. SCALE BAR
Shows the relationship between map measurements and actual distances

10. PHYSICAL MAPS
Show the location and shape of the earth’s physical features

11. POLITICAL MAPS Show the boundaries between countries
Often show human-made features such as: capitals, cities, highways, and railroads

12. SPECIAL-PURPOSE MAP
Emphasizes a single idea or a particular kind of information about an area
Climate maps
Population maps
Vegetation maps

13. ABSOLUTE LOCATION
The precise point where one line of latitude crosses a line of longitude
Lat/Long 30º N, 97º W