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geographical skills

Reading OS maps

As a GCSE geographer you need to be competent at reading Ordnance Survey (OS) maps. This requires skills such as interpreting grid references, symbols, scale and compass directions. This ‘Geographical Skills’ requires you to apply your map skills to make an important geographical decision.

Figure 1 Six-figure grid reference guide. The coloured square is GR 625333

Knowing the most common map symbols is vital when interpreting a map, for example symbols for different types of roads and paths, natural features and tourist information.

Use an OS map key or the internet to find out the meaning of these symbols on a 1:50,000 map:

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Peak District National Park

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The Scalpel: a new era of high rise

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