Maps and Map Skills

U.S./World History

What is a map?

A map is a two dimensional graphic representation of a part or all of the Earth’s surface.

Shows us physical and political features of the Earth.

Can also show us information such as population density or climate.

Scale of a Map

Different maps have different scales.

For example, we wouldn’t use a map of the U.S. to find a point in Atlanta.

As we zoom in, scale becomes larger.

Important Parts of a Map Compass Rose- shows direction on a map.

Scale- shows what a distance on a map is actually equal to on Earth.

Key- tells us what different symbols, colors and lines on a map mean.

Map Projections

Map projections are ways of showing a round Earth on a flat map.

There is no perfect map…all flat maps distort the Earth in some way.

Distortions may include: change in shape, change of distance, change in size, change in direction.

The Globe

Mercator Projection

Robinson Projection

Interrupted Projection

Different Types of Maps

Physical Maps Shows features such

as mountains, plains, rivers and oceans.

Focus is on natural features and not cities, countries, and borders.

I see the Alps Mts. but have no idea where Paris is.

Different Types of Maps

Political Maps The focus is on cities,

countries, states, and borders.

I see France but where is the Danube River?

Different Types of Maps Thematic/ Special

Purpose Map These maps focus on

specific information such as population density or resource distribution.

I see that there is a low risk of forest fires in Ireland, but what ocean is Ireland surrounded by?

Different Types of Maps

Historical Maps Shows how a certain

area has changed over time.

Shows what a certain area used to look like.

I see the Holy Roman Empire, but where’s Germany?

Different Types of Maps

The Globe• A globe is the most

accurate representation of the Earth because it is round like the Earth.

• A globe shows us the truest sizes of land and bodies of water.