In this video, students learn how to understand and use maps. Common maps are illustrated throughout the program. Different types of maps, including ski, bike, road, and topographic maps, are discussed. Map-reading fundamentals, including using a legend and scale, are also highlighted. The program also explains how lines of latitude and longitude can help identify a location, and how contour lines on a topographic map indicate slope. Additional concepts and terminology: globe, map symbols, global positioning system (GPS).

Originally released by Visual Learning, 2008. Streaming video file encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on April 18, 2015. Teacher's guide available under Additional info tag. Also available as DVD (DV3469).

What are Maps? (2:15); --Reference Points on Earth (2:25); -- Map Reading Fundamentals (2:53); -- Reading Topographic Maps (2:28); -- Summary: Reading Maps (1:05); -- Video Assessment: Reading Maps (1:48); -- Credits: Reading Maps (0:43); .