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Analyze a Map

Sammy EagleDownload the illustrated PDF version. (PDF)

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Meet the map.

Map

  • What do you see?
  • Does the map have a title?

Observe its parts.

  • Does the map include? Circle all that apply.
    Compass Rose Legend Scale
  • Are symbols or colors used in the legend? If so, what do they stand for?
  • What place or places are on the map?
  • What does the map show? Circle all that apply.
    Mountains Rivers Lakes Oceans Cities States Countries Roads Other

Try to make sense of it.

  • When was the map drawn?
  • Why do you think this map was made? List two parts of the map that tell you this.
  • How does it compare to a current map of the same place?

Use it as historical evidence.

  • Where do you think you could find out more information about the place or places shown on the map?

CC0 Materials created by the National Archives and Records Administration are in the public domain.

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