📚 Topic Summary
A map key, also called a legend, is a small box on a map that explains what the symbols on the map mean. These symbols can be colors, shapes, or pictures that represent different features like rivers, mountains, cities, and roads. Understanding the map key is essential for reading and understanding any map. It unlocks all the information the map is trying to tell you!
🔑 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Symbol |
a. Explains what the symbols on the map mean |
| 2. Legend |
b. A drawing or picture that represents something |
| 3. Feature |
c. A part of the Earth's surface, like a river or mountain |
| 4. Road |
d. A way for cars to travel |
| 5. City |
e. A large town |
Answers: 1-b, 2-a, 3-c, 4-d, 5-e
✏️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Use the words in the box to fill in the blanks. (Key, Symbols, Information, Map, Understand)
A ______ is a drawing of a place. The ______ shows what the ______ on the map mean. Without the key, it is hard to ______ the ______ on the map.
Answers: Map, Key, Symbols, Understand, Information
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Imagine you are creating a map of your neighborhood. What are five important features you would include, and what symbols would you use to represent them? Explain why you chose those symbols.