Map Reading: Contours, Keys, and Symbols

Front

What are symbols on a map used for?

Back

Symbols show important landmarks, places, and areas on a map because maps are usually too small to contain lots of writing.

Front

What is a key on a map?

Back

A key is a guide that explains what the symbols on the map mean. It is usually located at the side of the map.

Front

What are contour lines?

Back

Contour lines are lines drawn on maps that join places of the same height. They help to see the shape of the land.

Front

How do contour lines indicate steepness?

Back

When contour lines are close together, it means the slope is steep. When they are far apart, the slope is shallow.

Front

What do blue symbols on a map usually represent?

Back

Blue symbols are often used for buildings or tourist attractions on a map.

Front

How are different types of roads shown on a map?

Back

Different types of roads are shown in different colors: blue for a motorway, red for a main road, and yellow or orange for narrower roads.

Front

What is an eight-point compass?

Back

An eight-point compass includes the four main directions (north, south, east, west) and four additional points (north-east, south-east, south-west, north-west).

Front

What do contour lines tell us about planning a route?

Back

Contour lines help determine if a route will be steep or flat, which is useful for planning hikes or walks.