Map Skills

A compass measures direction using the Earth's magnetic field. The four cardinal points are North, South, East, and West. Understanding compass bearings allows accurate navigation using maps.

Contour lines are lines on a map that join points of equal height. They show the shape (relief) of the land — where it is steep, flat, or forms hills and valleys. Reading contour lines is an essential map skill.

Grid references use numbered lines on a map to identify any precise location, using an eastings number followed by a northings number.

Map scale tells you the relationship between distances on a map and the real distances on the ground. Using scale, you can calculate real distances, areas, and plan journeys from a map.

Map symbols are small pictures or patterns that represent real-world features. The key, or legend, explains what each symbol means.

A map is a flat, scaled representation of part of the Earth's surface. Being able to read maps — understanding symbols, scale, grid references, and contour lines — is a fundamental geography skill.