Map Symbols, Legend & Keys — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A map legend is a box that explains symbols.
A compass uses a magnetic needle to point north, helping us find which way is which on a map.
2. The color blue on a map often means water.
The legend gathers every symbol used on the map into a single labeled box for easy reference.
3. A compass rose shows four directions.
Houses look like simple boxes from above, so a tiny square is often used to show one.
4. A dot on a map can stand for a city.
Mapmakers always place north at the top of the map, which is why the compass rose's N points up.
5. North is at the top of most maps.
Trails are usually narrow paths through nature, so mapmakers often show them with dotted lines instead of solid roads.
6. A map key helps you understand what each picture means.
The key matches each picture on the map with its real meaning, so we always check it first.
7. Green on a map often means grass or forests.
Blue stands for water on maps, and a closed blue shape usually shows a body of water like a lake.
8. A small airplane symbol might show an airport.
Since north sits at the top, south sits at the bottom because the two are opposite directions.
9. The opposite of north is south.
Symbols are small pictures that stand for real things, keeping maps neat instead of crowded with words.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Star symbol
→ Capital city
Capital city
Blue wavy line
→ River
River
Green area
→ Park or forest
Park or forest
Tiny airplane
→ Airport
Airport
Stars mark cities, trees stand for parks, blue lines show rivers, and a tent picture points out a place to camp.