Map Basics
A. Parts of a Map
Symbols
Scale
Title
Key or Legend
Directional Finder
TITLE
Explains the purpose of the map
Symbols
Represent information that will not fit
KEY/LEGEND
Describes what each symbol and color means
Directional Finder
Shows direction
Scale
Measures distance
B. Large and Small Scale Maps
A large-scale map displays a relatively small section of the Earth’s surface with more detail
A small-scale map displays a relatively large section of the Earth’s surface with less detail
Scale may also be…
Expressed as a ratio of unit on map to actual number of units on Earth.
1:100,000 inches =1 inch on map is the equivalent of100,000 inches in the real world
The larger the second number, the smaller the map scale
C. Types of Maps
PhysicalPoliticalThematic
PHYSICAL MAPPhysical maps show the natural features of the earth.The focus is on natural not man-made features.Sometimes they are called topographical maps.
POLITICAL MAPSPolitical maps show man-made boundaries like cities, countries, states, etc.May also give detailed information about cities, roads, rivers, and lakes.
THEMATIC MAPSMaps that emphasize a single idea about an area. Also called special purpose maps.
Examples: Road maps, climate, elevation, population, religions, languages, etc.
Contour Maps
A map that shows elevations of the land by means of contour lines.
D.Map Changes
Changes in Knowledge over Time….
Early 15th Century View of the World
Columbus’s View of the World – 15th Century
The World Today
What changes do you see?
Changes in the World map since the 15th Century are due to an increase in information and technology.
Changes in Place Names Over Time
Up until 1895 owned by China1895-1945 Japanese ruled Taiwan (Formosa)1949 – ROC capital (Independent – Taiwan)
Changes in Boundaries Over Time
African Colonization: 1914 to 1990’s
Collapse of the Soviet Union 1989
Middle East: 1948 and 1967
Maps Reflect Perspectives
Persian Gulf or Arabian Gulf?
Who might call this the East Sea?
Maps Reflect Disputed Areas
Yugoslavia: Ethnic divisions result in new countries.
Kashmir: India vs. Pakistan
Western Sahara