Five Themes of Geography and Map Types

Location

the place where a particular point or object exists

Absolute Location

provides a definite reference for locating a place

Precise Location

describes a place with respect to its environment and communal connectivity

Movement

the movement of people, ideas, and culture, through a specific region

Place

The description of the surroundings and how people react with the surroundings

Region

any space that is distinct from another area

Formal Region

official boundaries and sections

Vernacular Region

Perceived regions. Not formal regions but referred to as if they are

Functional Region

Boundaries that are more selective

General Reference Maps

Provide a broad overview of geographic features, showing both natural and man-made landmarks

Topographic Maps

Depict elevation and landform details to show the shape of the terrain

Cadastral Maps

Show property boundaries, lot lines, and ownership details for land parcels

Navigation Charts

Specialized maps used for sea and air navigation, showing coastal features, water depths, and hazards

Thematic Maps

Focus on specific themes or data, such as climate, population, or economic activity

Contour Lines

Connect points of equal elevation

Grid System

Intersecting lines (often latitude and longitude)

Isoline

Lines connecting points of equal value

Cartography

The art and science of map-making

Geographic Information System (GIS)

System for mapping and analyzing spatial data

Atlas

A book or collection of maps

Date

The time when the map was created or last updated

Orientation

The direction indicator, usually shown with a compass rose or a north arrow

Grid

A system of intersecting lines (like latitude and longitude) used to locate positions

Scale

The ratio of map distance to actual ground distance

Title

The heading that explains what the map shows

Author

The creator or publisher of the map

Index

A list of places on the map, often with grid coordinates for easy reference

Legend

Explains the symbols and colors used on the map

Source

Information on where the data for the map came from

Mental Map

internal representation of the world or specific places based on your experiences, knowledge, and perceptions

Positive Influences

Factors that enhance your mental image of areas, such as personal experience, positive emotions, and cultural exposure

Negative Influences

Factors that distort your mental image of areas, such as limited experience, negative emotions, and bias