1. DifferentDifferent
Types ofTypes of
MapsMaps

2. Introduction
 In this slideshow you will learn about SIX
different types of maps. As you flip
through, think about what these different
maps might be used for!

3. Physical Maps
 Physical maps show what the surface of the Earth
looks like. These maps include physical features
like mountains, rivers, and lakes. Water is
usually shown in blue. Colors are used to show
differences in land elevations. Green is usually
used at lower elevations (near sea level), and
orange and brown is used to show higher
elevations (mountains).

4. Physical Maps (example)

5. Political Maps
 Political maps do not show physical
features like mountains and rivers.
Instead, they show state and national
boundaries and capitals and major cities.
A capital city is usually marked with a star.

6. Political Map (example)

7. Climate Maps
 Climate maps give general information about the
climate (weather) and precipitation (rain/snow) of
an area. Cartographers, or mapmakers, use
colors to show different climate or precipitation
zones.

8. Climate Maps (example)

9. Economic or Resource Maps
 Economic or resource maps show the type
of natural resources or economic
(business) activities that are done in an
area, like farming. Cartographers use
symbols to show the location of natural
resources or economic activities For
example, oranges on a map of Florida tell
you that oranges are grown there.
 (example on the next slide)

10. Economic Map (example #1)

11. Economic Map (example #2)

12. Road Maps
 Road maps show major roads, highways,
airports, railroad tracks, cities, and other
points of interest in an area. People use
road maps to plan trips and for driving
directions.

13. Road Map (example)

14. Topographic Maps
 Topographic maps
use lines to show the
shape and elevation
of the TOP of the
earth. Lines that are
close together show
steep terrain, while
lines that are far
apart show flat
terrain.

15. Topographic Map (example)