Map Symbols & Legend Keys — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word on the line to complete each sentence.
1. The four cardinal directions are North, South, East, and West.
The four cardinal directions are North, South, East, and West.
2. A compass rose is the symbol on a map that shows directions.
A compass rose is the symbol found on maps that shows the cardinal directions.
3. The letter N on a compass rose stands for North.
On a compass rose, N stands for North, which points toward the top of most maps.
4. If you face North, South is behind you.
South is the opposite direction of North, so it is behind you when you face North.
5. The direction where the sun rises is East.
The sun rises in the East each morning and sets in the West each evening.
6. The direction where the sun sets is West.
The sun sets in the West each evening and rises in the East each morning.
7. On a map, the letter S stands for South.
The letter S is the abbreviation for South on a compass rose.
8. A compass rose has four main directions.
The four main directions on a compass rose are North, South, East, and West.
9. If you walk East and then turn around, you are now facing West.
West is the opposite direction of East, so turning around means you face West.
Part B: Match the Map Symbol
Draw a line from each direction word to its abbreviation.
1.
North
→ N
W
South
→ S
E
East
→ E
N
West
→ W
S
Each cardinal direction is abbreviated by its first letter on a compass rose.