Topographic
Maps
TEKS 8.9 C
interpret topographic
maps and satellite views
to identify land and
erosional features and
predict how these
features may be
reshaped by weathering
A 2D view of a
3D surface
How do
topographic
maps give you
a picture of
what the
landscape
looks like?
By showing
ELEVATION
 Contour lines do not cross, split
or branch off
 Contour lines form a “v” or “u”
shape in valleys or streambeds
- bottom of shape points
uphill/upstream
What is the highest elevation?
What is the lowest elevation?
Which way is the stream flowing?
NOTE: Contour lines form a “V” or “U” shape in valleys
or stream beds with the bottom of the shape pointing
uphill/upstream. This shape indicates weathering and erosion!
- as the surface
continues to weather
and erode, the “v/u”
will widen &/or
become more
pointed.
- deposition occurs
downstream
U
- weathering and
erosion affects higher
elevations first!
U
Where is weathering and erosion taking place?
• Spacing between contour lines indicates slope
= the steepness of the land
- if contour lines are far
apart the slope is gradual
(flat)
- if contour lines are close
together the slope is
steep
Where is the slope the most gradual (or flat)?
Where is the slope the steepest?
Where is the slope of the land the steepest? flattest?
 The contour interval of a map remains consistent
throughout the map
What is the contour
interval of this map?
What is the contour interval of this map?
Identify and Label the following on the topographic map above:
Highest Elevation = _______ Place an “F” where the slope is the most gradual (flat)
Lowest Elevation = _______ Place an “S” where the slope is the steepest
Contour Interval = _______ Draw an arrow showing which way the stream is flowing
What the landscape
(or horizon) looks like
Topographic Map & Profile
Topographic Map & Profile
Interpret
Create a profile showing elevation from point A to B.