A simple map is a scaled or pictorial representation of a space in which symbols stand for places or objects, a key explains their meanings, and relative locations are described using terms such as north, south, east, west, near, far, left, and right. The learner interprets these relationships to identify locations and describe or follow short routes, without using formal coordinate systems, complex scale, or map projections.
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- Learn “Read a simple map” with a detailed explanation of the concept
- Master “Read a simple map” with unlimited, free practice problems
- Download (or modify) a free worksheet on Read a simple map you can use at home or in class with practice problems that scaffold and explore “Read a simple map” from different perspectives.
- Start working on adaptive units like “Spatial Awareness - Practice” that introduce, teach, or practice “Read a simple map” to maximize your learning.
Detailed Explanation: Read a simple map
A simple map is a picture of a place from above. Before using it:
- Read the key. The key tells what each picture or symbol means.
- Check directions. On this map, north is up, south is down, east is right, and west is left.
- Follow the route one step at a time. Start at the place named, then move in the direction given.
Example
Key:
- 🏫 = school
- 🌳 = park
- 🛒 = shop
- 🐟 = pond
- 📚 = library
Map:
📚
|
🏫 —— 🌳 —— 🛒
|
🐟
↑
North
Question: Start at the school. Go east to the park, then go south. Where do you arrive?
Step 1: Find the school, 🏫.
Step 2: Go east. East means right, so move right to the park, 🌳.
Step 3: Go south. South means down, so move down to the pond, 🐟.
Answer: You arrive at the pond.
Learn by doing: Read a simple map
Click a topic below to practice the foundational skills you'll need, learn the steps, or master this skill
Your results
Practice with unlimited practice problems
Practice:
Map Path (Relative) - Destination to Two Instructions
Earned ?
Download/Modify Free Grade 2 'Read a simple map' Worksheet
Print this free 'Read a simple map' worksheet to practice this skill away from the computer. Click 'Modify' to easily customize this worksheet to your exact needs.
This Worksheet Includes:
- Map Path (Relative) - Destination to Two Instructions
- Map Path (Compass) - Two Instructions to Destination
- Map Path (Left/Right/Up/Down) - Destination to Three Instructions
- Map Path (Left/Right/Up/Down) - One Instruction to Destination
- Map Path (Compass) - One Instruction to Destination
Units Teaching This Skill
These adaptive units introduce, teach, or reinforce this skill (Read a simple map) through scaffolded problems that grow in difficulty as concepts are understood.