Changing Map Scale

Changing Map Scale

Map scale tells us how distance on a map compares with distance on the ground. A map that shows a small area in greater detail is called a _____. A street plan is one example: it may include individual buildings, paths and bus stops because there is enough space to show them clearly.

By contrast, a _____ covers a much wider area, such as a whole country or continent. The same page must fit many more kilometres, so small features are left out or grouped together. To prevent crowding, map makers use _____: a blue line can stand for a river, while a dot may mark a town. Changing the scale therefore changes what can be shown, not the real size of the places.