Map Work

What is a map?

A map is a drawing of an area as seen from above, reduced to scale. In the Junior School CBC (KICD), Social Studies starts with Our Environment and uses maps to describe where places are and what they look like.

Features of a map

• Title: tells what the map shows.
• Key (legend): explains the symbols.
• Scale: the ratio between map distance and ground distance.
• Compass direction: usually a north arrow.
• Frame/border: boundary of the map.

Compass directions

Four cardinal points: North (N), East (E), South (S), West (W). Between them: NE, SE, SW, NW. A way to remember: Never Eat Soggy Waffles, going clockwise.

Map symbols

Common symbols represent roads, rivers, schools, hospitals, railways and settlements. Colour often shows features: blue for water, green for vegetation, brown for relief.

Scale and distance

Scale can be stated as a ratio, such as 1:50,000, or as a statement, such as 1 cm represents 5 km.

Worked example: Two towns are 6 cm apart on a map with scale 1 cm : 5 km. Distance = 6 x 5 = 30 km.

Drawing a simple sketch map

1. Draw a border and a north arrow.
2. Mark main features (school gate, field, classrooms).
3. Use simple symbols and a key.
4. Give a title.

Why maps are useful

They help travellers find the way, planners locate services, and farmers plan land use.

Try it

• Sketch a map of your school with a key and north arrow.
• Name the direction from your classroom to the gate.
• A map scale is 1 cm : 2 km. Find the real distance of 7 cm.
• Name five symbols you might find on a map of your village.