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Read Special-Purpose Maps
Some maps show specific kinds of information. These special-purpose maps
may show features such as climate zones, ancient trade routes, or population.
Sometimes, it is much easier to find information on a special-purpose map than
in a text.
1 Identify the title and determine the purpose of a map.
A map’s title can help you identify the region covered by the map. The title may
also tell you the purpose of the map. If the map has no title, see what information the
map shows to determine its purpose.
2 Use the map key to make sense of symbols and colors on a map.
A key or legend often appears in a small box near the edge of the map. The key
will tell you the meaning of colors, symbols, or other patterns on the map. Specialpurpose maps use these colors and symbols to present information.
3 Draw conclusions about the region shown on a map.
Once you understand all the symbols and colors on the map, you can draw
conclusions about the region. For example, a precipitation or climate map will
show you which areas get lots of rainfall and which are very dry. A population map
will show you which regions have lots of people and which have small, scattered
populations. A historical map will show you the locations of ancient empires or trade
routes. By mapping this kind of detailed information, special-purpose maps can help
you understand a region’s history or geography.
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