Home› ICSE Revision› Grade 8› Geography› Representation of Geographical Features

Representation of Geographical Features

How topographical maps use contour lines to show relief and landforms, and how to read settlements and other features on a topo-sheet.

What this chapter covers

  1. Contours

    ▼
    • Topographical MapLarge-scale map from actual field survey.
    • Methods of RepresentationContours, hachures, hill shading, benchmarks.
    • Contour LinesJoin places at the same height.
    • Contour IntervalHeight difference between consecutive contours.
    • Index ContourThick brown line every 100 m.
    • Spot HeightHeight of one ground point.
    • What Contours ShowElevation, shape and steepness of land.
    • Salient FeaturesNever broken; merge only at cliffs.
  2. Identifying Landforms Through Contours

    ▼
    • Types of SlopesClose contours steep, wide ones gentle.
    • Landform TypesConical hills shown by circular contours.
  3. Settlements

    ▼
    • Overview and Growth of SettlementsHuman dwellings and where they develop.
    • Types of SettlementsTemporary or permanent, by time occupied.
    • Settlement PatternsShape of settlement seen from above.
  4. Interpretation and Analysis of a Topo-Sheet

    ▼
    • Locating Features on a Topo-SheetGrid references using eastings and northings.
    • Interpreting Topo-SheetsMarginal information and relief features.
    • Conventional Signs and SymbolsStandard symbols for buildings, roads, water.

Try a sample question

In the four-figure grid reference 3211, what do the first two figures (32) represent?

Other Geography chapters

Revise Representation of Geographical Features with My Revision Deck

Create a free account to get access to quizzes, mind maps and printable test papers with answer keys, and subscribe for chapter worksheets. Selected chapters are free to try — no payment needed.

Create a free account