Examples of Map Symbols: Understanding Common Icons in 5th Grade

📚 Quick Study Guide

• 📍 Map symbols are visual representations of real-world features on a map.
• 🌲 Common symbols include those for cities, roads, rivers, forests, and landmarks.
• 🏠 The legend or key explains what each symbol represents.
• 🧭 Different maps use different symbols, so always check the legend!
• ⛰️ Symbols can be points, lines, or areas.
• 🗺️ Understanding map symbols is key to navigating and understanding geography.
• 💡 Scale is important: symbols represent larger areas in real life.

Practice Quiz

1. What does a small black circle typically represent on a map?
   1. A mountain
   2. A city
   3. A river
   4. A forest
2. What does a blue line usually indicate on a map?
   1. A road
   2. A border
   3. A river
   4. A railway
3. What part of the map explains the meaning of different symbols?
   1. The title
   2. The scale
   3. The legend/key
   4. The compass rose
4. Which of these might be represented by a green area on a map?
   1. A desert
   2. A mountain
   3. A forest
   4. An ocean
5. A symbol that looks like a star often represents what?
   1. A capital city
   2. A small town
   3. A river source
   4. A mountain peak
6. What do dashed lines often represent on a map?
   1. Roads
   2. Rivers
   3. Borders
   4. Railways
7. If a map uses a tent symbol, what is it MOST likely representing?
   1. A school
   2. A campsite
   3. A hospital
   4. A library