Elements of a Map
ICSE Class 6 · Geography · Chapter 2
What this chapter covers
- Scale
- Direction
- Conventional symbols
- Title, legend and grid
- Reading a simple map
Key definitions
Scale is the link between a distance on a map and the real distance on the ground.
Direction is the way in which one place lies from another place.
Cardinal directions are the four main directions, North, South, East and West.
Intermediate directions are the four directions that lie halfway between the cardinal directions.
A compass is a small instrument with a magnetic needle that always points towards the North.
The north arrow is the arrow on a map that shows which way North lies.
Conventional symbols are simple signs and marks used on maps that people everywhere agree on and understand.
A legend is a box on a map that explains what each symbol and colour on the map stands for.
A grid is a set of straight lines that cross one another to divide a map into equal squares.
Key points
- Scale is the link between a distance on a map and the real distance on the ground.
- A scale helps you find real distances, compare sizes and draw plans.
- The four cardinal directions are North, South, East and West.
- The four intermediate directions are North-East, South-East, South-West and North-West.
- Together they make the eight points of the compass.
- Most maps have North at the top, shown by a north arrow.
- Conventional symbols are agreed signs that stand for real features on a map.
- The title tells you what the map shows.
- The legend, or key, explains the symbols and colours.
- A grid divides a map into lettered and numbered squares to help find places.
- To read a map, check the title, north arrow, legend, scale and grid, then study the features.