CYCLONE for Junior Cycle Geography: Chapter 07 - Geographical Skills: Ordnance Survey Maps

Map

A map is a scaled-down drawing or plan of all or part of the earth's surface.

Scale

The relationship between a distance on a map and its corresponding distance on the ground.

Atlas

A collection of maps.

National Grid

Used to locate areas on Ordnance Survey maps.

Eastings

Vertical lines on an Ordnance Survey map.

Northings

Horizontal lines on an Ordnance Survey map.

Grid reference

Used to denote a specific location on an Ordnance Survey map.

Altitude

Shown in metres above sea level on an OS map.

Triangulation stations

These are black triangles with the altitude measurement written beside them.

Spot heights

These are black dots with the altitude measurement written beside them.

Contours

These are lines that join places of equal height.

Slope

Describes the steepness of the land.

Cross-sections

A side view of the landscape.

Settlement

A place where people live.

Density

The amount of settlement.

Dispersed

Houses isolated or spread around the countryside.

Linear

Buildings that follow a road or coastline in a direct style.

Nucleated

Buildings grouped together.