2. Parts of a Map
There 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
4. Compass Rose
A 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.
5. 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.
6. Inset Maps
An 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.
7. 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.
8. Map Scale
Maps 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.
9. 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.
10. Questions
1. 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?
