Introduction to Maps

Kindergarten · Social Studies · Study Guide

Learn what maps are and how we use them to find places in our world.

A map is a drawing that shows what a place looks like from above, as if you were a bird flying high in the sky. Maps help us find places and understand where things are.

Maps use symbols, which are small pictures or colors that stand for real things. A blue area on a map usually shows water like an ocean, lake, or river. A green area might show a park or forest.

Most maps have a compass rose, which is a design that shows the four main directions: North, South, East, and West. These directions help us know which way to go.

Maps can show many different things. A neighborhood map shows streets and buildings. A world map shows all the countries and oceans on Earth. A map of your school might show the classrooms and hallways.

A map key, also called a legend, explains what the symbols on the map mean. Reading the map key helps you understand what you are looking at.

Key terms

map
A drawing that shows what a place looks like from above
symbol
A small picture or color on a map that stands for a real thing
compass rose
A design on a map that shows the four directions: North, South, East, and West
map key
A box on a map that explains what each symbol means, also called a legend
direction
Which way to go, such as North, South, East, or West

Flashcards

map
A drawing showing what a place looks like from above
symbol
A small picture or color on a map that stands for something real
compass rose
A map tool showing the four directions: North, South, East, West
map key
The part of a map that explains what each symbol means, also called a legend
North
One of the four main directions, usually shown at the top of a map
South
The direction opposite to North on a map
East
One of the four main directions, to the right on most maps
West
One of the four main directions, to the left on most maps

Questions

  1. What is a map?

    1. A photograph taken from the ground
    2. A drawing that shows what a place looks like from above
    3. A list of directions
    4. A type of calendar
    Show answer

    Answer: A drawing that shows what a place looks like from above

    A map is a drawing that shows what a place looks like from above, like a bird's eye view.

  2. A compass rose shows the four main directions on a map.

    Show answer

    Answer: True

    A compass rose shows North, South, East, and West, which are the four main directions.

  3. A box on a map that explains what each symbol means is called a map _____.

    Show answer

    Answer: key

    A map key, also called a legend, explains what each symbol on the map stands for.

  4. On most maps, what color usually shows water?

    1. Red
    2. Green
    3. Yellow
    4. Blue
    Show answer

    Answer: Blue

    Blue is the color most commonly used to show water like oceans, lakes, and rivers on maps.

  5. All maps look exactly the same.

    Show answer

    Answer: False

    Maps can look very different from each other depending on what place or information they show.

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