Maps

A map is the representation or a drawing of the earth’s  surface or a part of it drawn on a flat surface according to a scale.When many maps are put together we get an atlas. Scale is a ratio between the actual distance on the ground and the distance shown on the maps.When large areas like continents or countries are to be shown on a paper then we use a small scale.It is called a small scale map.When a small area like village or town is to be shown on paper then we use a large scale.It is called a large scale map.Most maps contain an arrow marked with the letter N at the upper right hand corner.This arrow shows  the north direction.It is called the north line.There are four major directions,north,south,east and west.They are called Cardinal points.

 There are different types of maps.

Physical map-Maps showing natural features of the earth such as mountains,plateaus,plains ,rivers ,oceans etc are called physical or relief maps.

 Political map-Maps showing cities,towns and villages and different countries and states of the world with their boundaries are called political maps.

 Thematic maps-These maps focus on specific information such as road maps,rainfall maps,maps showing distribution of forests,industries etc.