Map Symbols, Legend & Keys — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A compass rose shows directions like north and south.
A compass rose is the special star-shaped drawing on a map that points to all four main directions.
2. The map legend uses symbols to represent real places.
Symbols are tiny drawings that stand in for real places, and the legend lists what each one means.
3. A tent symbol on a map might mean a campground.
People sleep in tents at campgrounds, so a little tent picture is a natural symbol for one.
4. East is the opposite of west on a compass rose.
East and west sit on opposite sides of the compass rose, pointing in completely different directions.
5. A red cross symbol can mean a hospital.
The red cross is a famous symbol used for medical help, so on a map it usually marks a hospital.
6. We look at the map key before reading the map.
Checking the key first lets us learn what every symbol means before we start using the map.
7. A dashed line on a map can show a trail.
Dashed lines look different from the solid lines used for roads, so mapmakers use them to show walking trails.
8. Maps help us find places and directions.
Maps not only show where places are but also use a compass rose to tell us which direction to travel.
9. A black square might stand for a building on a map.
Buildings look like solid blocks from above, so a small black square is a simple way to show one.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Compass rose
→ Shows directions
Shows directions
Map legend
→ Explains symbols
Explains symbols
Dashed line
→ Trail or path
Trail or path
Red cross
→ Hospital
Hospital
The compass rose points out directions, the legend explains what symbols mean, dashed lines mark trails, and a red cross stands for a hospital.