Topographic Map Project
INTRODUCTION:
An uncharted island has been found off the coast of New England. You have
been hired by the US Geological Survey to create a map of the island. A
description of the island based on evidence from aerial photographs
has been provided for you. Your salary (grade) for this assignment will be
based on neatness, originality, use of correct symbols, and accurate
application of rules governing contour lines.
ISLAND DESCRIPTION: (these must be included in the map)-5pts each totaling 60
-The island is 16 miles north to south and 10 miles east to west
-There is a hill on the south end of the island
-Its peak is a known elevation of 183 feet above sea level
-Southwest side is an extremely steep cliff
-There is a stream that starts at an elevation of 157 feet and flows northeast
into the ocean
-The mouth of the stream is surrounded by a large saltmarsh
-A depression with a quarry in it is located on the north end of the island
and is 30 feet deep
-There are 3 small buildings located between the quarry and the stream
-A trail or unpaved road connects the buildings to the stream
-Add 2 other features of your choosing to your map for originality (10 points)
MAP SPECIFICATIONS: (these must be shown on map) 5pts each totaling 30
-Map Scale: 0.5 inches = 1 mile
-Contour Interval: 20 feet
-Include index contour lines (every 5th line is darker brown and has elevation
listed)
-Use proper USGS mapping symbols and colors (packet and website) shown in a
key or legend somewhere on the map
-North arrow is up
-Map Title: Name of the island based on either your first or last name
ALSO REMEMBER:
Neatness counts and is worth 10 points. Lines should be sharp,
no eraser marks(start over), don't exaggerate size of symbols, color neatly
and lightly with colored pencils.
BONUS:
You may build a 3D model of your island along with your topo map to show a
greater level of understanding. 5 pts extra credit