๐ Topic Summary
Map symbols are like a secret language that cartographers (map makers) use to represent real-world things on a map. Because maps are much smaller than the actual places they show, symbols are needed to represent features like buildings, roads, rivers, and mountains. Learning map symbols helps us understand what is located where! Different maps use different symbols, so it's important to always check the map key (also called a legend) to understand what the symbols mean.
๐ง Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Legend |
A. A drawing that stands for something real. |
| 2. Symbol |
B. Shows directions on a map. |
| 3. Road |
C. Explains what the symbols on a map mean. |
| 4. River |
D. A long path for vehicles. |
| 5. Compass Rose |
E. A natural stream of water that flows in a channel. |
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Use the words below to fill in the blanks in the paragraph.
Words: mountains, maps, symbols, understand, key
________ are pictures that stand for real things on ________. To ________ what the ________ mean, you need to look at the map ________. For example, a triangle often represents ________.
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are creating a map of your classroom. What are five important things you would include on your map, and what symbols would you use to represent them?
