Building a Topographic Model
Modified from http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/fosrec/Metzger1.html
Introduction
Topographic maps show the shapes and features of the Earth's surface. A contour line connects places
on the map which have the same elevation. To demonstrate the different elevations shown on a two
dimensional topographic map, you can build a 3-dimensional model.
PURPOSE
To make paper models that portray, in three dimensions, features represented by contour lines on a
topographic map.
MATERIALS: copies of topo map, clay
PROCEDURES
Note: if the landform you are making a model of has a number of closely spaced contour lines, cut along
the index contours (i.e., the ones that are marked with the heaviest lines).
1) Carefully cut out the index contours for the topo map provided.
2) Roll out the clay into 1 cm thickness
3) Place the photocopy representing the lowest elevation of the landform on top of the clay. Carefully
cut along the contour line and mark any necessary points. This is the first level of the model which you
will build.
4) Repeat this procedure until you have cut out all of the contour lines. Don't forget to layer the model as
you go.
QUESTIONS
1) If the first layer of your model is sea level, what elevation is each of the
following points? (the contour interval = 10 ft.)
A _______ B _______ C _______
1 _______ 2 _______ 3 _______
2) Which is the steepest slope on the hill? (north, south, east, or west?)
How do you know?
3) What is the difference in elevation between the second and fourth layers of your model?
4) If you were to build a house on this hill, where is the flattest part of the land form? Draw a house on
the topographic map.