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What you should know by the end of this lesson:
What you should know by the end of this lesson:
Have the basics of an OS map symbols
Background
Background
Symbols in stead of words have been used since before there were written words... Egyptian hieroglyphics are the prime example of this.
We also know lots about this person, despite no words being used.
Bit harder but i am sure a lot of you will know about this symbol too.
Map Symbols
We use symbols instead of words to label real life features and make the maps clearer.
With so many features on a map there would not be enough space to write everything down in words.
Which one is easier to read?
You do not need to know every map symbol as you will be provided with a map key to use to understand what a map symbol means. However, there are some key features which you should know.
Digital Workbook or paper Jotter Task
Look at the key OS map symbols are below.
Take a note of the key symbols which you should know!
Key OS map symbols
Key OS map symbols
Orange lines are contour lines. They show the height of the land. Thick lines are normally labeled with their height and thinner lines are a 10-metre increase/decrease in height from the previous line.
Green areas with tree symbols are areas of forestry.
Roads are various colours depending on the size and quality of the road.
Motorways are blue
Main/A-Roads are pink
Secondary/B- Roads are orange/yellow
The top of a map is North and the bottom is south. North slopes tend to be colder and south slopes warmer.
Pay attention to the names on a map. There are not tricks but are designed to be obvious so people can find places.
Water Sports centre is water sports
Hotels are normally named
Tent/Caravan symbols indicate a campsite.
You are not expected to remember every symbol. Any map you are provided with will include a map key/legend which you can use to understand your map.
Practice
Practice
Use the worksheet to practice your map symbols and be sure to get some one to check your answers!
Map Symbols.pdfLesson Complete
Lesson Complete
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