Map Scale & Map Legend/Key

Image of a crow. Have you ever wondered how far away something is? Could you use a mapping app to tell you exactly how far away it is by traveling via a car on roads? Sure. But can that same mapping app estimate the distance "as the crow flies"? Not as easily. That's where knowing how to estimate distances on a map using a map scale can come in handy. "As the crow flies" is an expression meaning the shortest distance between two places.

And what about all those symbols and colors all over so many maps? What is that all about?

Well, in this lesson you will learn about the key to unlock that puzzle.

Guide Point 🧭

Map Scale & Map Legend/Key

Imagine you have a map that shows your entire neighborhood, but you want to know the exact distance from your home to the high school. This is where map scale comes into play. On most maps, you'll find a scale bar, which is a line marked with different units like miles, kilometers or commonly both. This scale bar is like a ruler. It helps you figure out how far places are from each other in the real world. So, when you measure on the map using the scale, you can calculate the actual distance.

The map legend, also known as the map key, is like a real key. It opens the door to understanding any symbols, colors, and markings used on the map. Without the legend, it's like trying to open a door without the key.

Every symbol on a map has a unique meaning, and the legend explains what each of these symbols represents. For example, a tiny star might mean a capital city, while a squiggly blue line might represent a river. So, when you look at a map, the legend is your dictionary, helping you decode its hidden, and sometimes not so obvious messages.

Now that you have the knowledge of map scales and map legends/keys, let's practice the skill of identifying and using those elements.

Map Scale & Key | Practice Activity

Now that you have the knowledge of grid systems and latitude & longitude, let's practice the skill of identifying those elements.

Reflection

In the last four lessons, you've acquired essential map knowledge and skills, which are fundamental to your understanding of geography. You've learned how to interpret map features, cardinal directions, latitude and longitude, map scales, and map legends/keys. These skills will be invaluable as you analyze and interpret maps in this course.

What is a Map Crash Course Geography #2 | Video

For a more in-depth look at maps and how they are used in geography, please carefully watch this video.

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