1. Parts of a Map

2. Parts of a Map
There are many important parts of a map but we will focus on six key features. They are:
Map Title
Compass Rose
Map Key or Legend
Map Scale
Inset Map
Locator Map

3. Map Title
The Map Title tells you what the map is about…

4. Compass Rose
A compass rose shows directions. It actually has 32 points but we most commonly see them with four or eight points.

5. Map Key or Legend
The objects on a map are represented using symbols. A symbol is a picture on the map that represents something in the real world. Maps use a key, or legend to explain the meaning of each of the symbols used in the map. These keys usually show a small picture of each of the symbols used on the map, along with a written description of the meaning of each of these symbols.

6. Map Scale
Maps are made to scale. The map scale explains the ratio of distances on a map to distances on the ground. For example, 1cm on a map might equal 100km on the ground.

7. Inset Maps
An Inset Map is a more detailed (larger scale) representation of a specific area on a map usually placed in an uncluttered portion of the same sheet as the smaller scale main map.

8. Locator Map
A locator map is a bit like an inset map, but it is intended to put the main map into the context of the world. It is usually seen as a globe or a continent with a highlighted area.