How to Use a Map

What does the title of a map tell you?

• The scale of the map

• The subject of the map

• The directions on the map

• The symbols on the map

Match the following descriptions with the information they provide on a map.

• What does the compass rose on a map show?

• The scale of the map

• What does the title of a map indicate?

• The subject of the map

• What shows distance on a map or focus

• The meaning of the symbols and colors used on the map

• What is the key or legend

• The directions on the map

What is the purpose of a locator on a map?

• To show the scale of the map

• To show where on Earth the area of the map is located

• To show the directions on the map

• To show the meaning of the symbols on the map

What symbol is often used to indicate a state capital on the map?

• A star

• A dot

• A square

• A triangle

Which feature is represented by a plane symbol on the map?

• Town or neighborhood

• Airport

• City or county border

• Built-up area

What is the purpose of a scale bar on a map?

• To show the direction of north

• To help find the actual distances between points

• To indicate the population of a city

• To display the elevation of an area

What is the main difference between the map of Greater Los Angeles and the map of Downtown Los Angeles?

• The map of Greater Los Angeles shows a larger area with less detail, while the map of Downtown Los Angeles shows a smaller area with more detail.

• The map of Greater Los Angeles shows only parks, while the map of Downtown Los Angeles shows only roads.

• The map of Greater Los Angeles is in black and white, while the map of Downtown Los Angeles is in color.

• The map of Greater Los Angeles shows the entire state, while the map of Downtown Los Angeles shows the entire country.

What do political maps show?

• Physical features

• Climate zones

• Borders between countries or states

• Population density

Identify one river that flows through New Mexico.

• Colorado River

• Rio Grande

• Mississippi River

• Arkansas River

Which type of map might use arrows to show the movement of people or troops from place to place?

• Political

• Election

• Battle

• Physical