Parts

of a
Map
Parts of a Map:
• Most maps have the following six
elements (parts), which help us
read and understand what the
map is trying to represent
 1. Title
• The title explains the subject of the
map and gives you an idea of what
information the map conveys
2. Compass Rose

The compass rose shows you

directions on a map
Cardinal directions are north,
south, east, and west
Intermediate directions are
northeast, northwest, southwest,
and southeast
 Compass Rose

You can remember the order of the directions with

this saying… starting at the top and going around
clockwise: Never Eat Soggy Waffles
(north) (east) (south) (west)
3. LABELS
Labels are words or phrases
that explain features on the
map
Alegend or key lists and
explains the symbols and use
of color on the map
5. SCALE
Scale shows the ratio between
a unit of length on the map
and a unit of distance on the
earth
6. Colors
• Colors represent a variety of
information on a map. The map
legend indicates what the colors
mean.

Life Expectancy Map