Map Basics

Just as a car can't be started without the right key, many maps would be indecipherable without their legend, or key. Map keys show what pictures and colors on a map represent and often offer clues as to the kind of map. Readers learn how map keys can illuminate all kinds of maps, from street and political maps to economic and physical maps. Common map key symbols are discussed alongside full-color examples of many kinds of maps and keys to guide readers through the use and importance of each.

Knowing how to read common types of maps is a worthwhile skill. While computers have made paper maps seem outdated, many people still check out weather maps, road maps, and even simple political maps online. Through examples and full-color images, readers are introduced to physical maps, climate maps, and more. The main content includes basic map concepts, such as using map keys, scale, and latitude and longitude. From population to precipitation, the maps included will aid readers in understanding both mapmaking and the world around them.

Even in such a tech-savvy culture as ours, understanding latitude and longitude coordinates has many uses. Coordinates can help hikers find their way when lost on a difficult trail and geocache enthusiasts locate their treasure. Even more importantly, they can help communicate location no matter what language is being spoken. Readers learn all about the development, use, and accuracy of the grid mapping system of latitude and longitude. Covering the equator, Prime Meridian, and more, the main content complements important topics from the social studies curriculum. Full-color maps aid readers' understanding as fact boxes clarify key information.

One of the most recognizable map symbols, the compass rose, is also the most useful. It shows the cardinal directions, and, when used with a compass, it can help hikers and orienteers reach their destination. Readers are introduced to the compass rose and the cardinal and intermediate directions it displays. Detailed examples lead readers through using a compass rose on a map. Full-color images accompany important map skills, engaging readers with content consistent with the social studies curriculum.

Which state is south of Maryland and north of North Carolina? How many states border California? How many countries are there in South America? As students read this book, they'll gain a better understanding of the locations of countries of the world. Using a map legend, they'll identify state and country capitals and other cities. They'll see how various landforms create natural borders. After comparing political maps of the United States at different times, students will be able to explain how the country grew. An activity concludes the book to help readers apply what they've learned.

What highways go from Maine to Florida? What's the distance from Los Angeles to San Francisco? How do I get to my friend's house? How does GPS work? As readers enjoy this volume, they will find answers to these questions and more. Readers learn to use the map key to identify different types of roads. They'll plan routes for long and short trips, calculating distances with the scale of miles. After studying diagrams of the GPS, they will give a basic explanation of how it works.

Where should we vacation if we want to see mountains? Where can we go to be near a big lake? Is there a desert in Kansas? As students read All About Physical Maps, they'll be able to answer these questions and more. They'll learn to interpret a map legend and identify natural features. Comparing physical maps of the same area over time will aid children in identifying changes to the landscape. Readers will apply their knowledge by creating a physical map of a fictional place that they create.

Which trail has a gentle slope? Where are the highest mountains along the Appalachian Trail? Is there a lake along the route? As students read this engaging volume, they will learn how to use United States Geological Survey (USGS) contour maps to answer these questions. They'll get an historical overview of how surveyors used to create these maps, and how technology now helps create more accurate maps. Students will construct 3D models of areas on a topographic map.

What's the average temperature in Honolulu in July? How much snow should you expect if you visit Minneapolis in January? As students read All About Climate Maps, they'll gain an understanding of the basics of climate and weather and learn how to identify climate zones. Comparing a series of climate maps of the same location in different years will help identify patterns and changes in the weather and precipitation. Interpreting maps of different locations will allow students to compare and contrast the climates. After reading climate maps of a chosen area, students will do an activity to apply what they've learned.

Which countries have gold mines? Where are cattle raised? What resources are found in Mexico? As readers turn the pages of this inviting book, they'll identify where different resources are found around the world. They will be able to discuss the importance of the resources to the local and global economies. By combining resource maps with climate and physical maps, students will be able to explain why particular resources are found in certain areas. A concluding activity allows readers to apply what they've learned.

Driving through the northeastern part of the United States during the fall is much different than traveling through the Southwest. Vermont will have many trees with their leaves changing color, while a state like Arizona will be dry, hot, and not have much vegetation. These states are in different climate zones! Readers learn the main features of Earth's climate zones, including the tropical, temperate, polar, Mediterranean, highland, and arid zones. Full-color photographs and maps of these regions aid the main content in supporting both science and geography curricula.

Global communication and travel are integral parts of culture today. Knowing the time of the places around the world makes interacting globally easier! The 24 time zones on Earth make this possible. Readers are introduced to these important zones, including how they began in the United States with railroad lines. Detailed, full-color maps offer practice reading maps as basic concepts, such as latitude and longitude, are incorporated into the main content. Fun facts about Daylight Saving Time and irregularly drawn time zones will interest readers while they gain knowledge supportive of the social studies curriculum.