Map Elements

The main visualization tool for spatial relationships and geographic data is a map. Maps consequently become significant records. A map is composed of multiple parts known as map elements.​

​Map Elements

nSymbology

nDirection

nScale

nLegend

nLocational inset

nNeatline

nTypography

nColor and contrast

nSecondary information

​Map components

nThe art of expression

nUsing graphics and text to convey meaning

nMost GIS packages offer a strong collection of symbology choices

​Symbology

​Direction

nThe representation of map figures to their on the ground equivalents

nA key part of most maps

nSeveral different approaches

¨Graphical

¨Equivalent

¨Proportional​

​Scale

​Legend

​Locational inset

nA border that surrounds a map figure

¨Usually a line

nAdds a sense of closure to a map

nFeatured on many professional maps but not a requirement for mapping excellence

​

​Neatline

​Color

nAuthor

nDate

nLocation of map file(s) and supporting data

nSource data

nLegal considerations…​

​Secondary map elements

Draw

Complete the following map, write the map element

Draw

Complete the following map, write the names of the 7 emirates.

Multiple Choice

The use of ------------ cartographic design can allow us to produce a strong figure to ground relationships.

• Visual Variables

• Color

• Size

• Shape

Multiple Choice

The purpose of a map legend (or key) is:

• To explain the history of the map 

• To identify the meaning of symbols on the map

• To figure out the distance from one place to another

Multiple Choice

The title of a map tells us:

• The distance the map covers

• The name of the cartogtrpaher

• What the map is about (the topic of the map)

Multiple Choice

You can use a scale on a map to:

• Find out how much the map weighs

• Understand the meaning of the map's symbols

• Determine the distance from one point to another