Advanced Earth Science
Introduction to
Topographic Maps: Lesson and PartnerActivity
(From Unit 1: “Mapping the Earth”)
Topographic Maps: Objectives:
• Explain how a topographic map uses
contour lines to show elevation changes
and landforms.
• Activity: Design a topographic map based
on a student-made landform (hill,
mountain or volcano).
“Real World”
Contour Map
Topographic Maps
• Contour Line –
- line on a map that connects points of EQUAL
elevation.
- show elevation and shape of the land
• Relief – Difference between high and low elevations
Topographic Maps
• Contour Interval –
difference in
elevation between
each line. MUST be
equal spacing.
580
560
540
Contour interval =
20 feet
520
Topographic Maps
• Index Contour –
Usually every 5th line is printed darker and has
an elevation printed on it.
Rules for Contours
1.
Contour lines never cross
Rules for Contours
2. Contours form closed loops (even if not
shown of the map.
Closely-Spaced Contours
• Steeper Slope (Gradient) – contour lines are
closer together.
Widely-Spaced Contours
• Gradual/Gentle Slope (Gradient) – contour lines
are farther apart.
A
B
Today’s Activity:
• You are going to work with 1-2 partners to
make your own contour map! Pick 1-2
partners now! (1 minute)
The Basics:
• You will create a mountain, volcano, or a
hill, break it into parts, then map it!
• Step 1: Make your landform!
Mount Goodwin
Step 2:
• Mark the peak with a dot
• Make two intersecting lines (at right angles to
give a reference, makes 4 quadrants)
Step 3:
• Mark 3 rings into your mountain with your toothpick
to make 3 different elevation markers
– First line, ¼ of way down
– Second line, ½ of way down
– Third line, ¾ of way down
Step 4:
• “Cut out” each layer of the mountain using your dental
floss.
• Trace each section of the mountain on your piece of
paper, starting with the base
• Be careful to position the upper layers correctly in
relationship to the base
Step 5:
• Assume base layer of mountain is at sea level (0 feet)
• Label the “base” contour line as 0 feet, then label the
other contour lines using an elevation rate of 500 feet per
line
• Color each layer a different color (do not use blue- that is
used for water) and then make a key on the side or
bottom of the map
• Key must include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Date when map was made
Orientation: direction (north arrow or compass rose)
Scale: map distance
Title: What and where
Author (who made map)
Finishing the lesson:
• If time, we will present our maps in class
• Complete the “Exit Pass Form” with your
partner(s) to show what you’ve learned
today