Maps and Directions
Grade 1 · Social Studies · Study Guide
Learn how maps help us find places and how to use directions like north, south, east, and west.
A map is a drawing that shows what a place looks like from above. Maps help us find our way and learn about the world around us. There are many kinds of maps. Some show whole countries, some show cities, and some show just a neighborhood or school.
Maps use symbols to show things like roads, rivers, parks, and buildings. A map key (also called a legend) tells you what each symbol means. A compass rose is a special symbol on maps that shows directions: north, south, east, and west. North usually points to the top of the map.
Directions help us describe where things are. If something is to your right when you face north, it is east. If it is to your left, it is west. South is behind you when you face north. Learning directions helps you give and follow instructions like 'go two blocks north and turn east.'
| Direction | Abbreviation | On a Map |
|---|---|---|
| North | N | Top |
| South | S | Bottom |
| East | E | Right |
| West | W | Left |
Key terms
- map
- A drawing that shows what a place looks like from above
- map key
- A box on a map that explains what the symbols mean
- compass rose
- A symbol that shows the four main directions on a map
- symbol
- A picture or shape that stands for something real
- direction
- The way you travel or look — north, south, east, or west
Flashcards
- map
- A drawing that shows what a place looks like from above
- map key
- Explains what the symbols on a map mean
- compass rose
- Shows the four main directions on a map
- north
- The direction toward the top of most maps
- symbol
- A picture or shape that represents something real
- cardinal directions
- The four main directions: north, south, east, west
Practice questions
What does a map key (legend) tell you?
- What the weather will be
- What the symbols on a map mean
- How far you have walked
- What time it is
Show answer
Answer: What the symbols on a map mean
The map key or legend is like a dictionary for map symbols, helping readers understand what each picture means.
On most maps, north points toward the top.
Show answer
Answer: True
By convention, mapmakers place north at the top so all maps are consistent and easy to read.
Which symbol on a map shows the four main directions?
- Map key
- Compass rose
- Scale bar
- Title
Show answer
Answer: Compass rose
A compass rose is the star-shaped or arrow symbol that marks N, S, E, and W on a map.
The four cardinal directions are north, south, east, and ___.
Show answer
Answer: west
The four cardinal directions are north, south, east, and west — helpful for navigating anywhere.
Maps can only show the entire world, not small places like a neighborhood.
Show answer
Answer: False
Maps can show any size area — from a whole country down to a single classroom or school.
Fun facts
- The word 'map' may come from the Latin word 'mappa' meaning cloth or sheet.
- The North Pole is the northernmost point on Earth — all directions from there are south!
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