Maps and Places: The use of grid references

This post explain the use of grid references in map reading. Let us go through together as we prepare for our test or exam.

• A map is a representation of the earth or part of it drawn on a piece of paper, wall plank etc.
• Position of places on the earth’s surface:
• To find a particular place on a map, these must be an accurate method of locating it.
• The accurate method to be used when finding a particular place on a map is the grid reference system
• The grid reference system consists of a series of lines drawn across a map running from top to bottom and from side to side.
• These lines are numbered making it easy to locate the exact place.

How to read grid references

• The grid lines running from North to South (Top to Bottom) are called Eastings because they represent distances eastwards from the origin.

The grid lines running from West to East (side by side) are called Northings because they represent distances Northwards from the origin.

• When locating a place you have to start with Eastings and then Northings.
• Grid Reference are given in one of two ways:

❖ Four Figure grid reference – Used to identify a 1km x 1km square ♦♦♦ Six Figure grid reference – Used to identify a location 100m x 100m

Four Figure Grid Reference

We use a four figure grid reference if we want to identify a large object e.g. a lake

The four figure grid reference depicts only a general location of the point in the grid square.

• When taking a reading from a grid reference map, you take the EASTING first
• After taking the eastings, NORTHINGS are then read.