1. Name: ____________________
Date: __________ Period: ____
Creating a Topographic Map
Introduction One of the many tools used to study Earth’s landscape is a topographic map, which
represents Earth’s three-dimensional surface in two dimensions. Topographic maps use contour lines to show
elevation, or height above sea level, on a two-dimensional surface. A contour line joins points on a map that have
the same elevation. Contour lines never intersect. The difference in elevation between one contour line and the next
contour line is the contour interval.
In this investigation, you will first create a three-dimensional landform, then use it to create a topographic map.
Pre-lab Discussion Read the introduction. Then work with your group to answer the following
questions.
1. How does a topographic map show the elevation of the land?
2. In your own words, define the term contour interval.
3. Why can contour lines never intersect?
4. What kind of topography is indicated by contour lines that are very close together? By contour lines that
are very far apart?
5. What is the purpose of having you create a topographic map from a real three-dimensional feature (made
out of homemade Play-Doh®)?

2. Name: ____________________
Date: __________ Period: ____
Materials (per group)
Transparent box with homemade Play-Doh®
Metric Ruler
Pen/Pencil
Procedure
1. Spread your homemade Play-Doh® across the entire surface of your container. You may build up certain
parts more than others if you have extra material.
2. Carefully measure which parts of the landform are at certain elevations. You will use these measurements
to create a topographic map. Your contour interval should be 1 centimeter.
3. Compare your topographic map to the ones on p. 36 and 37. Did you forget anything?
4. Draw your topographic map below (this should be the aerial view of your transparent box).