Name(s) Date
Topography is the shape of the land. Topographic maps are used to aid in the visualization of the shape of the land. Mapmakers use different methods to represent the shape of the land surfaces on maps. Topographic maps include the accurate representation of places,
directions, distances and elevations. The most common method for topographic maps is the use of lines called contours, which are drawn to connect points at the same elevation above sea level.
In this investigation, you will interpret the contour lines on part of a topographic map and use them to create a three-dimensional model, or landform.
 Describe the shape of a land surface using a contour map.
 Interpret the features of your contour map, understand topography and relief
 Metric Ruler
 Marking Pencil
 Dry erase marker
 Masking Tape
 Plastic Box
 Model of volcano
 Water
 White Tracing Paper
 Transparencies
1.
Use a metric ruler and marking pen to mark off 1-centimeter intervals on the outside of the plastic box (use tape-do not mark on the box itself) from the bottom to the top.
2.
Place the model of your volcano in the bottom of the box. Secure the model to the bottom with addition masking tape.
3.
Fill the plastic box with water to the level of the first centimeter mark.
4.
Place the transparency on the top of the box. Be sure to secure the transparency with masking tape to one side of the box so that it does not fall in the water and you are able to flip the transparency up later.
5.
Trace the outline of the shore (where the water touches the model) with a dry erase marker on the transparency.
6.
Add more water to the plastic box until the next centimeter mark is reached and draw a line around the shore line (where the water touches the model) with a marker on the transparency.
7.
Repeat steps 3 & 5 at each marked level until the top of the mountain is reached.

Procedure – Part Two:
1. When you have completed the transparency map, trace the outline of your island onto a piece of white paper . Position your paper with the traced contour so that it matches the model outline.
2. Be sure to leave space for the following information:
 Map Title
 Scale
 Contour Interval
 Compass Rose
 Symbol Key (color on a topographic map has significance)
 Publication Date and publisher
3. Draw a house, dock, radio tower, warehouse, road(s), and railroad on the topographic map.
4. Mark (make note) of any other natural features that may be on your island.
4. Label each contour line in elevation.
5. When you have completed your topographic map, draw a straight line across the entire island from east to west. Label this line A to A’ and construct a topographic profile.
Remember your scale must match the scale of your map.
Conclusion Questions:
1. What do the contour lines on a topographic map represent?
2. What is the contour interval of your map?
3. What do widely spaced contour lines indicate about the shape of the land?
Which is the steepest slope on the map? (north, south, east, or west? Circle your answer)
Explain: How do you know?
4. What pattern do contour lines make as they cross a stream valley?

5. Describe two ways that you can determine the direction of stream flow on a contour map.
1.____________________________________________________________
2.____________________________________________________________
6. How are topographic maps useful for people in life?
Elevation Assessment
Brown lines on the map are called contour lines and they represent lines of equal elevation. As long as you stay on that line you remain at that elevation. There are two types of brown lines, bold lines (index contour) and fine lines (normal contour lines).
1.
Find your first index contour line. Follow the line until you find a number and record it.___________
2.
Find the next adjacent bold line and record its elevation.___________
3.
Draw a line between the two contour lines and record the distance covered (use the scale your created)
4.
What is the change in elevation between these two lines?
5.
Now calculate the slope of the line you drew. __________
6.
How many fine lines are usually between the bold lines?_______