A map key defines the meaning of symbols, colors, or lines and may state how many objects or units each symbol represents. The learner uses this correspondence to interpret a simple map, distinguish represented features from the symbols themselves, and determine quantities by counting symbols or equal symbol values; complex scales, fractional units, and proportional map distances are not included.
A map key tells you what the symbols, colors, or lines on a map mean. Always check the key before counting.
Example
A park map uses this key:
The map shows:
š³ š³ š³ š³
Step 1: Read the key.
Each š³ symbol stands for trees.
Step 2: Count the symbols.
There are š³ symbols.
Step 3: Find the total.
Each symbol represents trees, so:
There are 8 trees in the park.
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