Features of an OS map
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a key on an OS map to identify features and landforms.
Key learning points
- OS maps use symbols to show human and physical features.
- A key is used to explain what each symbol represents.
- The details around the outside of the OS map give locational information such as the three norths.
- Symbols differ between a 1:25 000 and 1:50 000 map.
Keywords
Scale - scale on a map shows what size the area that is represented in the map really is
Ordnance Survey (OS) - the national mapping agency for Great Britain
Key - explains what the different symbols or colours used on the map mean
Compass - an instrument used for navigation and orientation that shows direction relative to north, east, south and west
Topography - the landforms and features of land surfaces
Common misconception
Maps always have the same symbols.
You find different symbols depending on the scale of your map.
Teacher tip
Bring in paper OS maps and a map key for students to have a look at.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What do you find on a physical map?
Q2.Which of the following best describes a large-scale map?
Q3.What can maps be used for?
Q4.Hows do we represent real life distance on a map?
Q5.Which of these is the correct order?
Q6.Which of these is not a digital map?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword to the correct definition.
Shows what the area on the map represents in real life
National mapping agency for Great Britain
Explains the meaning of symbols or colours on a map
Shows direction relative to north, east, south, west
The landforms and features of land surfaces
Q2.What do OS maps have on them?
Q3.Which of these statements is most accurate about map symbols?
Q4.Where can you find what the symbols mean on an OS map?
Q5.What does a P stand for on an OS map?
Q6.What does a pink triangle represent on an OS map?
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: Features of an OS map, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: Features of an OS map, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Geography: what makes a geographer? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.