Types of Maps Vocabulary

Front

Globe

Back

A 3-D sphere of the entire planet.

Front

Map

Back

A drawing of the earth, or a part of the earth, on a flat surface.

Front

Map Title

Back

An element that describes the specific purpose, theme, or subject of a map.

Front

Map Key

Back

A box that explains what the symbols, colors, or labels on a map mean.

Front

Compass Rose

Back

A symbol that shows directions on a map or globe.

Front

Scale

Back

A symbol that shows what the distance on a map would convert to in real terms.

Front

Political Maps

Back

A map that shows borders of countries and states and may also include the names of cities and capitals.

Front

Physical Maps

Back

A map that shows the earth’s natural landscape through land elevation and water depths.

Front

Topography

Back

The term used to describe the different landforms and natural features that can be seen on a physical map.

Front

Road Maps

Back

A map that shows roadways for transportation in a specific area.