Topographic Map Study Guide
Test Date: March 19th
Study Materials
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Topographic Maps ENGAGE Activity (2 pages)
Topography Maps: Ticket-out-the-door
Topographic Map: Note-taking sheet
Topographic Maps: Homework
Vocabulary
 topographic map: a map that shows the elevation of the land by using
contour lines
 index contour lines: dark lines on the map (they help you count
contour lines easier)
 gradual slope: represented by lines that are spread apart
 steep slope: represented by lines that are close together
 map scale: shows the distance on a map
 map legend: a key that explains the symbols used on a map
 hachure lines: a depression in the land
 contour interval: the difference in elevation between two contour
intervals
 peak: the top of a mountain; the highest point
 sea level: elevation = 0
Rules of Contour Lines
 Contour lines connect points that are the same elevation
 Contour lines never cross or touch
 Contour lines are imaginary
 They always connect (even if not the map) and form a circle
Things to Know!
 Contour lines that cross water form a “V” that points UPSTREAM!
 The point of the V or U points uphill or upstream.
 A group of circles grouped together represents a hill or a mountain
 How to determine the contour interval on a topographic map (what
elevation each line represents)
 Example: Each line below would stand for 20