Maps and Map Keys — Answer Key
Part A: Multiple Choice
Circle the best answer for each question.
1. What does a map key help you do?
A) Cook a meal
B) Understand what symbols on a map mean
C) Tell the time
D) Draw pictures of animals
A map key helps you understand what the symbols on a map mean so you can read the map correctly.
2. You see a blue area on a map. According to most map keys, what does blue usually show?
A) Mountains
B) Deserts
C) Water
D) Forests
Blue on a map usually shows water, such as oceans, lakes, or rivers.
3. On a compass rose, which direction is opposite of east?
A) North
B) South
C) West
D) Up
West is the direction opposite of east on a compass rose.
4. A map shows a school to the north of a park. Which direction would you go from the school to reach the park?
A) North
B) East
C) West
D) South
If the school is north of the park, you would go south from the school to reach the park.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the correct answer on each line.
1. A map key uses symbols to stand for real places and things.
A map key uses symbols like small pictures and colors to stand for real places and things.
2. If you walk toward the top of a map, you are heading north.
If you walk toward the top of a map, you are heading north because north is at the top of most maps.
3. A community map shows streets, schools, and parks in a town.
A community map shows the streets, schools, parks, and other important places in a town.
4. The four main directions are called cardinal directions.
The four main directions — north, south, east, and west — are called cardinal directions.
5. To read a map, always check the map key first.
To read a map, always check the map key first so you know what each symbol means.