types of maps

there are three types of maps, physical, general reference and thematic

Physical vs. Human • Like geography more generally, maps can be used to display aspects of physical geography and / or human geography. • Physical Geography -the science that deals with the study of the earth’s natural features, including the landforms, drainage, climate, soils and vegetation.

• Human Geography -the science that looks for the connection between the things people do and the places in which they do them

Physical Maps • Physical maps display the earth's natural features. • These maps include: • Maps of landscape features including mountains, rivers, lakes, etc. • Topographic maps • Climate maps – temperature, precipitation, etc.

General Reference Maps • General reference maps may display elements of both human geography (borders, cities, provinces, etc.) and physical geography (bodies of water, landforms, etc.), but the focus is the human geography.

• These maps include: • Political maps – cities, provinces, countries, etc. • Road maps

Thematic Maps • Thematic maps focus on sharing data about a particular theme or topic. Typically, the data is related to aspects of human geography, including how people interact with the land. • Topics include: • Population & Demographics • Economics – spending & profits, types of work • Measures of Well-being •Use of Land or natural resources