Module 6 - Map Layout

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. List what map layout consists of
2. Describe the pieces of a map
3. Describe the important aspects of how a reader naturally focuses on a map
4. Evaluate the overall balance of a map
5. Describe how the grid enforces the stability of map layout

TERMS TO KNOW

• map layout
• map pieces
• title
• legend
• scale
• explanatory text
• directional indicator
• inset
• locator map
• visual center
• symmetrical balance
• asymmetrical balance

READING ASSIGNMENT

Chapter 6 in the text. MakingMaps: A Visual Guide to Map Design for GIS

ACTIVE LEARNING EXERCISE

3D Models in Sketch-up: An introduction - posted last week

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. What does the author mean by the statement 'there is more to a map than the map'?
2. List and describe the common 'pieces' to a map.
3. What does the map reader 'notice' when the map layout succeeds?
4. What happens when map layout fails?
5. What does map layout consist of?
6. What is an advantage to a 'visual scale' like a bar scale?
7. When should a visual scale be used?
8. What is one way to deal with data that does not lend itself to be shown at a single scale?
9. Where on the map should you position elements you wish to be seen first?
10. Where is the visual center of a map?
11. What is the difference between symmetrical and asymmetrical map balance?