1. Map Key/Legend – a part of a map that explains what the symbols on the map represent. 2. Compass Rose – a direction marker on a map 3. Cardinal Directions – the four main points of a compass rose: North South, East, and West 4. Intermediate Directions – the directions “in the middle” of the Cardinal Directions: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest 5. Scale – the measuring tool (usually a line) on a map that represents the distance in real life

A map scale is located in the map legend or on the bottom of a map if there is no map legend. It is a bar or line of a specific length that represents a distance in miles or kilometers on a map.

Map of Louisiana Look at the map of Louisiana. Do you see the map scale? How many miles does that length on the map represent in the distance in real life? 100 Miles

Map of Louisiana What symbol on the map indicates the location of a city? When measuring distance on a map you MUST measure from DOT to DOT 100 Miles

Map of Louisiana Using a measuring tool like an index card or piece of paper, you can measure the length from city to city on a map. Put the corner on the paper on one DOT. Line up the paper’s straight edge with the other DOT And make a DASH on the paper 100 Miles

Map of Louisiana Once you have measured DOT, DOT DASH --- TAKE IT TO THE SCALE! Remember: Always measure the distance from DOT to DOT, make a DASH, and take the measurement to the SCALE 100 Miles

Map of Louisiana If the measurement is LONGER than the scale: Put a small mark to show the end of the scale. Write the miles the scale is measuring. Move the mark on your paper back to the zero on the scale Add the total miles of both measurements together 100 Miles = 125 miles

Now its your turn: Remember: 1. The DOT indicates the location of the city NOT the NAME 2. Use a straight-edged piece of paper to measure 3. Follow the song: DOT – DOT – DASH – Take it to the SCALE 4. If the distance is longer than the scale make a small mark and bring that mark to zero to measure the rest of the distance