Topographic Maps

Imagine that you are going on a road trip to spend a long weekend hiking, fishing, and camping. You will be in a remote area, so your phone reception is no guarantee. It is a good thing you have learned basic map skills, because you are going to need them! You have learned about map scale and how you can use a map to measure distances between two locations on Earth. This will be helpful when you plan your hikes, but it would be even more helpful if your map gave you some insight to the terrain of the camp area. Is it mostly flat? Is there a river nearby, and if so, which way does it flow? Topographic maps are unique maps that allow trained users to envision the Earth's surface in three dimensions. When you have mastered the basic skills to interpret a topographic map, you will be prepared to plan out your hikes and travel through remote areas.

Essential Questions

• What are the features and symbols on a topographic map?
• How do you interpret a topographic map?