CK-12 Foundation
Topographic and Geologic Maps: Topographic Maps
Maps are great for helping you get where you're going, but what does that place actually look like? Geology scholars compare and contrast the features of topographical and geologic maps using an interactive lesson. The resource describes...
Curated OER
Topographic Mapping Skills
In this geography instructional activity, students read an excerpt about topographic maps and why they are useful for various jobs. They also respond to eleven questions that follow related to the excerpt and locating specific map points...
Curated OER
Topographic Maps Worksheet
In this geography skills learning exercise, students respond to 37 multi-part questions that require them to read and interpret topographic maps.
Curated OER
Project Map: Scale Worksheet
In this map reading instructional activity, students determine the distance from a plotted treasure on a topographic map. They must adjust for magnetic declination.
Curated OER
Regents High School Examination: Physical Setting Earth Science 2009
Junior geologists address 50 multiple choice questions and 35 short answer questions about the earth system. Plenty of visuals are included for interpretation: diagrams, graphs, maps, photographs, laboratory setups, weather symbols, and...
Curated OER
Contour Map Worksheet #3
Earth scientists answer five multiple choice questions about the topographical map atop the worksheet. Use this as a quick assessment of understanding after having taught how to read contour lines and topographic maps.
Curated OER
Contour Map Worksheet #1
Being able to read a topographic map is a standard in middle school earth science units and imperative for outdoor enthusiasts. As you introduce learners to this skill, you can assign this as an assessment or reinforcement. Pupils view a...
Curated OER
Take a Hike
In this geography skills worksheet, students respond to 9 questions that require them to read topographic maps and interpret them. The topographic maps are not included.
Curated OER
Map Analysis Worksheet
In this map analysis worksheet, students decipher what type of map they are using based on a complete list of criteria. Students then answer multiple questions based on their discoveries.
Curated OER
Making Maps
In this map making worksheet, students learn about the science of making maps, which is cartography. They then answer the 11 questions on the worksheet. The answers are on the last page.
Curated OER
Exploring Earth Through Maps and Technology
In this maps worksheet, students read 3 pages of detailed information about maps, latitude, longitude, topography, satellites and global positioning. Students then answer 10 questions. There is also a research project assignment available.
Mr. E. Science
Introduction to Earth Science
From the layers of Earth's spheres to latitude and longitude to looking at topographic maps, learners discover the elements of Earth's systems.
Curated OER
Viewing Earth and Sky
In this earth and sky worksheet, students review terms associated with map reading. Students also review topographic maps and how contour lines represent elevation. This worksheet has 5 matching, 5 true or false, 5 fill in the blank, and...
Curated OER
Archaeology Volunteers
In this archaeology worksheet, students read about 4 tasks involving archaeologists. Students also answer 3 questions about the reading.
![Geoscience Australia: Map Reading Guide: How to Use Topographic Maps [Pdf] Handout](https://d15y2dacu3jp90.cloudfront.net/images/attachment_defaults/resource/large/FPO-knovation.png "Geoscience Australia: Map Reading Guide: How to Use Topographic Maps [Pdf] Handout")
Other
Geoscience Australia: Map Reading Guide: How to Use Topographic Maps [Pdf]
A topographic map can be challenging to read. This guide explains how to decipher one and how to use a magnetic compass to orient yourself to the landscape. It also explains how to use GPS coordinates.
Other
California State University: Topographic Map Symbols
Click on any of the geographical terms on this website to see examples that illustrate the symbols commonly used on maps. Includes boundaries, building symbols, caves, mines, elevation symbols, coastal features, and more.
US Geological Survey
Usgs: Finding Your Way With Map and Compass
This resource has a topographic map that tells you where things are and how to get to them. Use this site to help you use a map and compass to determine your location.
Other
Ordnance Survey: Map Zone: Relief and Contour Lines
Discover how to read and show height on maps using relief and contour lines.
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Earth Science: Maps
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] How to use topographic, bathymetric, and geologic maps.