Thematic maps focus on a specific theme and can show physical, political, or cultural features using colors and symbols. Physical maps depict geographical characteristics of the land like mountains, rivers, and lakes using varying shades. Political maps outline governmental boundaries between countries, states, and counties, and may also include major cities and bodies of water, differentiated with colors.

1. Types of Maps

2. Vocabulary
Thematic Maps
Physical Maps
Political Maps

3. What is a Thematic Map?
A thematic map is a map that has a specific theme.
The map may show a specific
physical, political, or cultural theme.

4. What is a Physical Map?
A physical map shows the
physical characteristics of the
land. It focuses on the geography
of the area and uses different
shades of colors to show
different features like
mountains, rivers, and lakes.

5. What is a Political Map?
A political map shows governmental
boundaries of countries, states, and
counties. The locations of major
cities and large bodies of water may
also be shown. Different colors are
often used to differentiate between
areas.

6. Thematic Map
Physical Map Political Map