An introduction to common characteristics and use of map media. Topographic maps will be used for physical analysis as well as to discern cultural and economic features of landscapes. Thematic maps, their use and applications will be presented. Includes some study out-of-doors with map and compass.

The chief objective of this course to acquaint you with the fundamental properties of maps and to provide guided practice in their uses. It is designed to meet requirements in liberal education (Category 5 and 11) and to serve the needs of students in several areas of concentration. The goal is to enable you to interpret physical and cultural information from maps, to associate mapped information with observed landscape features, to communicate with maps, and to use maps in a wide variety of life-long personal, scholarly, and professional applications - both in and out-of doors.

Heaviest emphasis will be given to topographic maps; however a variety of other thematic and reference maps will be introduced in lectures and exercises. Major topical objectives include the development of skills and understanding in the following areas:

1. Knowledge and use of map symbols.

3. Globe measurements.

4. Types and purposes of map projections.

5. Communication with thematic maps.

6. Analysis and interpretation of mapped information.

7. Land status and reference systems.

8. Map scales and scale conversion.

9. Navigation with maps and compass.

These topical objectives will be discussed in a variety of ways and not necessarily in the order listed. In fact, we often will return to a topic on some later occasion though perhaps with a different perspective or within another context than when first introduced.

Instruction will include lecture-discussion, demonstration, and assigned readings, but the principal focus will be on the learning and practice of map use skills. Some class meetings will be devoted all, or in part, to exercise assignments. Lectures will emphasize and elaborate upon selected topics of the text but will not attempt to duplicate or cover the entire contents. But, you are expected to read the chapters and complete all exercises. Additional topics relevant to the study of maps will also be introduced. Work in small groups of two or three will usually be permitted with many of the exercises. Some exercise assignments will receive minimal or no point value, while others will have higher possible values based on complexity, level of difficulty, and individual efforts. Honest efforts on the part of individuals to do well on all assignments is important because of the close relationship between assignments and ability to do well on quizzes and examinations.

1. Exercise Assignments: Most exercises will be completed during a class meeting. These exercises may not always relate directly to the readings. Grade value will vary from 5 to10 points depending upon length and complexity. Early or substitute assignments will not be given. Late or incomplete work or absence will result in reduced point values.

2. Exams: There will be two scheduled examinations, including the final. Each exam will be based on the required text readings, classroom presentation, and exercise assignments. Each exam will consist of approximately 5 to 10 problems and five or six short essay questions. You are to complete exams as scheduled. No exceptions will be made unless cleared ahead of the scheduled exam date or with a doctor's permit following a missed exam. An attempt will be made to go over exam questions at the earliest possible class meeting following a scheduled exam.

Help for Second Exam

2^nd Test 

Following chapters and pages you should go through to prepare for the next test:

The test will have combination of Multiple-choice, short-essay questions, and problems similar to the exercises that we completed after the mid-term test.

The final letter grade in this course will thus be determined by the total scores in all five requirements. All evaluations will be conducted on an individual basis by the instructor.  The final grade in the course will be determined by using mean and standard deviation of the standardized aggregate scores.