Name:

Date: Per:

Contour Modeling

A topographic map is a two-dimensional representation of a three-dimensional landscape. This activity will help you to visualize topographic map information in three dimensions.

Materials:

-  Contour model

-  Wooden peg

-  Colored pencils

Procedures:

1.  Assemble the 7 foam model pieces, attach them to one another by putting the peg through the hole labeled A, and position them as shown. (Note: Your contour model has four graph pieces and three white pieces.)

2.  Draw and describe the following features in the Table A.

Table A:

Feature / Contour Sketch / Description
Stream Valley
Steep Slope
Gentle Slope

3.  Assemble model pieces 1, 3, 5, and 7 only, attach them to one another by putting the peg through the hole labeled A, and position them as shown previously.

4.  Draw and describe the following features in the Table B.

Table B:

Feature / Contour Sketch / Description
Stream Valley
Steep Slope
Gentle Slope

5.  Assemble the 7 foam model pieces, attach them to one another by putting the peg through the hold labeled B, and position them as shown below.

6.  Draw and describe the following features in the Table C.

Table C:

Feature / Contour Sketch / Description
Stream Valley
Steep Slope
Gentle Slope

Questions

1.  What is the difference between the first and third models?

2.  Describe the difference between the topographies of the first model and the third model.

3.  Where would be a logical place to build a cabin on these hillsides of the first and third models? Why?

4.  How would the streams differ in these two situations?

5.  What can be concluded about the stream valley when the contours are aligned through Hole B?

6.  Now between all the models, where would be a logical place to build a cabin on this hill? Why?