Course Overview
Introduces the student to the principles of topographic maps and ordering aerial photographs. Mapping symbols, mapping systems, scale, contours, profiles and determining distance, direction and area are also covered in the course.
Prerequisite(s)
- No prerequisites are required for this course.
Credits
2.0
- Not offered this term
- This course is not offered this term. Notify me to receive email notifications when the course opens for registration next term.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, the student will be able to:
Module 1 - Introduction to Mapping
- List different map themes.
- Explain the use of different map types.
- Convert between SI and Imperial units.
Module 2 - Map Scale and Symbols
- Describe three ways of expressing scale.
- Calculate ground distances based on scale and map distance.
- Calculate map distances based on scale and ground distance.
- Explain the differences between small-l and large-scale maps.
- Identify various symbols used on topographic maps.
Module 3 - Measuring Distance, Direction and Area
- Calculate ground distances from a map.
- Calculate ground areas from linear scale measurements.
- Measure ground areas using a dot grid, square grid, and strip method.
- Measure map directions using a protractor or hand compass.
- Convert between azimuth and quadrant bearings.
- Calculate magnetic declination.
- Explain the effects of magnetic declination.
Module 4 - Working with Contours and Profiles
- Interpret simple contour patterns on a topographic map.
- Describe the important characteristics of contours.
- Draw contours from spot elevations.
- Calculate the grade of a line given the horizontal and vertical distance.
- Draw a profile based on field data.
- Draw a profile based on data from a topographic map.
- Calculate the elevation of a point between two known elevations.
Module 5 - Mapping Systems
- Explain the use of the geographic grid system (parallels, meridians, etc.)
- Explain the purpose of map projections.
- Describe latitude and longitude as a geographic coordinate system.
- Describe the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system.
- Describe the National Topographic System (NTS).
- Describe the British Columbia Geographic System (BCGS).
- Describe the Terrain Resource Information Management program (TRIM).
Module 6 - Aerial Photography
- Explain the importance of selecting appropriate air photos.
- Describe the component terms in an air photo number.
- Define endlap and sidelap.
- Plot by interpolation the centers of intervening photos along a flight line.
- Identify flight lines and photo centers on index maps.
- Calculate the scale of an air photo.
Effective as of Fall 2003
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.