Here is the key notes from Class 6 NCERT Geography – Chapter 4: Maps
What is a Map?
- A map is a drawing of the Earth’s surface on a flat surface.
- It uses symbols, colors, and signs to show places and features.
Types of Maps
- There are three main types of maps:
Type of Map | What it shows |
Physical Map | Natural features: mountains, rivers, plateaus, etc. |
Political Map | Boundaries: countries, states, cities, etc. |
Thematic Map | Specific information: rainfall, population, crops, etc. |
Components of a Map
Every map has three essential components:
a) Distance
- Shown using scale.
- A scale is the ratio between the actual distance on the ground and the distance on the map.
- Example: 1 cm = 10 km
Types of Scale:
- Small scale: Shows large areas (e.g., world map) with less detail.
- Large scale: Shows small areas (e.g., city map) with more detail.
b) Direction
- North is usually at the top of the map.
- Cardinal directions: North, South, East, West
- Intermediate directions: North East, North West, South East, South West
c) Symbols
- Used to show different features like rivers, roads, temples, etc.
- A map key/legend explains the symbols.
Examples:
- —— = Road
- ≡ = Railway line
Sketch
- A rough drawing of a place based on memory and not to scale.
Plan
- A drawing of a small area (like a room or building).
- Shows length and width using a scale.
- Used for detailed layouts.