Maps and Cartography

Understanding Maps

• Maps provide information about different places.
• The standard orientation of a map is with North at the top and South at the bottom.

Map Scales

• A map's scale is the ratio of the distance between two points on the map to the actual distance on the ground.
• Scales are used to show actual distances on the ground by reducing them on a map.

Map Symbols

• Symbols are used to represent features on a map.
• Map makers create symbols appropriate to their needs.
• Conventional symbols are commonly used on maps.
• Specific symbols are used to indicate certain features, such as "PO" for Post Office.

Directions on a Map

• East is on the right and West is on the left side of a map.
• North is indicated by a special mention on the map, often with an arrow.

Drawing Maps

• When drawing a map, features such as bridges and lamp posts are represented by symbols.
• District maps typically show villages and towns with dots and circles.