Map Skills 2—Parts of a Map

Parts of a MapThere 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• Inset Map• Locator Map• Map Scale

Map Title• The Map Title tells you what the map is

about…

Compass RoseA compass rose shows

directions. It actually has 32 points but we most commonly see them with four or eight points. The term "rose" comes from the figure's compass points resembling the petals of the well-known flower.

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.

Inset MapsAn 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.

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.

Map ScaleMaps 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.

Your Task• Open to your MAP SKILLS page in

your SS file, and create a subheading for Parts of a Map.

• Use a classroom desk atlas to answer the following questions about Parts of a Map. Feel free to ask your table mates for help if you need it.

• We’ll review the answers together in 5-10 minutes.

Questions1. What is the map title on page 46?2. Where is the compass rose located on the map on

page 70-71? How many points are labeled on this compass rose?

3. What symbols are found on the map key on the map on page 78? Using the key, what is one fact that you can gather about energy resources in the United States?

4. What does the inset map on page 164 magnify? What does the locator map tell you?

5. What is the map scale on the Australia map on page 179?