Scale (SQA National 5 Geography): Revision Note

Using scale

• Maps in the exam will either be scale 1:25,000 where 1cm on the map = 25,000cm (250m) in real life or 1:50,000 where 1cm = 50,000cm (500m) in real life

• When the distance is straight or almost straight, it can either be measured using a ruler or the edge of a straight piece of paper.

• Mark distances on a piece of paper using the scale at the bottom of the map.

• You can then lay the paper from the first point to the second point to calculate the distance.

• A distance along a curved route can be divided, the paper rotated and marked in stages to calculate the full distance

• To measure from A to B following the road on the map below, the route can be divided into a series of straight sections using crosses.

• Next, use the plain piece of paper to measure from A to the first cross. Next, rotate the paper, pivoting at the cross to mark the second cross.