As well as symbols, there are a number of other features that should be included on all maps to help us use them correctly. They are:

• Border—to show the edge of the map
• Orientation—to show the direction of north on the map
• Legend (or key)—to explain the symbols used on the map
• Title—to give the user an idea of what the map is for, or the place for which the map is drawn
• Scale—to tell the user how distances on the map represent real distances on the ground

Together, these six important features are often referred to as the BOLTS system (from the first letter of each feature). For every map you draw, you should remember to ‘check your BOLTS’.

BORDER:  the edges of the map should be clearly shown.  A common way to show the border is with a box around the edges of the map.  Remember when you are constructing a map the border should be ruled and stand out clearly from other text or illustrations.

ORIENTATION:  Direction must be shown on maps.  This is done by placeing a compass rose or a north arrow on the map.  Most maps have north towards the top of the map, however, do not assume that this is always so.

LEGEND:  A legend may also be called a key.  It is a list of all the symbols shown on the map.

TITLE:  THe title of the map should tell us something about the map.

SCALE:  It would be impossible to draw parts of the Earth to their actual size.  Maps are therefore drawn to a smaller scale.  Scale can be shown in three ways:

• in linear form - for example    

• as a ratio - for example, 1:100 000
• as a statement - for example, 'one centimetre represents one kilometre'

Do BOLTSS worksheet

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