Grade 1 · Social Studies · Geography

1st Grade Map Symbols and Keys worksheets

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Map Symbols and Keys

Grade 1 Social Studies Worksheet

NameDate

Circle the answer.

1.
Use the key. What is at A?
- ocean
- mountain
- island
- hill
2.
How many places are on this map?
- 5
- 6
- 4
- 2
3.
Use the key. Which letter marks land?
- A
- B
- C
4.
Use the key. What is at A?
- valley
- desert
- forest
- mountain
5.
On a map, what does the color blue usually show?
- water
- a hill
- a forest
- a road
6.
How many places are on this map?
- 5
- 7
- 4
- 3
7.
Look at A. What does the key say it is?
- river
- ocean
- cave
- island
8.
Which place is marked B? Use the key.
- lake
- island
- hill
- forest
9.
Why does a map use symbols?
- Symbols tell the weather
- Real buildings are in color
- Small pictures fit on a small map
- Symbols are for the compass
10.
Look at B. What does the key say it is?
- hill
- ocean
- river
- lake

1st Grade Map Symbols and Keys worksheet 1 – printable PDF — Download PDF: 1 2 3 4 5 6

About this worksheet

Maps use symbols to represent real places in a smaller space, and a key explains what each symbol means. First graders may recognize a picture of a school but ignore the key, or assume a symbol shows the exact size and shape of the real building. This worksheet makes the key part of the decision. Children find a letter on a map of land and water, look up its symbol in the drawn key, and read a small town map.

They also answer simple questions about the parts of a map: the symbol, the key, the title and the compass rose. Different questions use different maps, so children must read the current map instead of memorizing an answer. Watch whether your child checks the displayed key. A map reader should be able to explain what evidence on the map supports the choice.

What your child will learn

Use a map key to decode symbols
Match a symbol with a real place
Read a small map to count and find places
Name the parts of a map

C3 Framework standard: D2.Geo.1.K-2

Worked example

The tag marks a symbol of blue waves. The key shows that blue waves mean a lake, so the letter marks a lake.

Common mistake

Guessing a symbol's meaning without checking the map key.

Helpful hint

Read the key first, then find the matching symbol.

Next skill: Cardinal Directions Earlier: Rights and Responsibilities

Questions parents ask

What is the most common mistake with map symbols and keys?

Guessing a symbol's meaning without checking the map key.

How can I help my child with map symbols and keys?

Read the key first, then find the matching symbol.

Are these 1st grade social studies worksheets free to print?

Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.

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