An atlas is a collection of maps that contains at least two types of maps: physical maps highlighting natural features, political maps highlighting cities and countries, and thematic maps focusing on a single subject or theme. An atlas also includes graphs that summarize facts visually, map keys defining symbols, and a glossary explaining map terms.

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Map Skills I
Using an Atlas
René M. Lafayette, M.Ed.
6th Grade Social Studies
Samoset Middle School
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Question: What is an Atlas?

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Definition: A collection of Maps, containing at least two types (of maps).

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Physical Maps: highlights major, natural features of the region.

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Political Maps: highlight cities, countries and other political divisions.

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Thematic Maps: single focus on a subject or theme.

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Graphs: Summarize complex facts in an easy to understand visual format.
Other types include bar (pictured), circle graphs and picture graphs.

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Map keys: elevations, growning seasons, land uses.

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Glossary: defines many terms used on the maps and graphs contained in an atlas.

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Glossary: defines many terms used on the maps and graphs contained in an atlas.