Let’s walk through this step by step so you can complete your worksheet correctly.
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Step 1: Understand what a map legend is.
A map legend (also called a key) tells you what the symbols on a map mean. For example, a little tent symbol might mean “campground,” or a red line might mean “highway.”
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Step 2: Choose a real map to use.
You need to pick any map that has a legend — like a road map, city map, park map, or even a world map. You can find one online, in an atlas, or maybe your family has one at home.
Write down what kind of map you’re using. For example:
> The map I am using is a map of
California.
*(You can replace “California” with whatever place your map shows — it could be your town, a national park, a country, etc.)*
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Step 3: Find 6 different symbols on your map’s legend.
Look at the legend box on your map. Pick 6 different symbols — things like:
- A star (might mean capital city)
- A blue wavy line (might mean river)
- A green tree (might mean forest or park)
- A black dot (might mean small town)
- A red highway shield
- A picnic table icon (might mean picnic area)
In each of the 6 boxes on your worksheet:
- Draw the symbol exactly as it looks on the map.
- Underneath, write what it means according to the legend.
Example for one box:
```
[Draw a blue wavy line]
River
```
Do this for all 6 symbols.
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Step 4: Compare legends from different maps.
Now look at other maps — maybe a map of your city, a map of a national park, and a map of another country.
Ask yourself: Are the legends the same? Probably not! Different maps use different symbols depending on what they want to show.
For example:
- A city map might have symbols for bus stops and hospitals.
- A hiking trail map might have symbols for trails, waterfalls, and campsites.
- A world map might just show countries and capitals.
Write down how they are different. Here’s an example answer:
> Yes, the legends are different. A city map uses symbols for streets and buildings, while a park map uses symbols for trails and wildlife. Some maps use colors to show elevation, but others don’t.
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Final Answer:
The map I am using is a map of
California.
In the six boxes, draw these symbols and label them:
1. Blue wavy line → River
2. Green tree → Forest
3. Red highway shield → Interstate Highway
4. Black dot → Town
5. Star → State Capital (Sacramento)
6. Tent → Campground
Legends are different because maps show different things. City maps show roads and buildings; park maps show trails and nature spots; world maps show countries and borders. Each map picks symbols that help people understand what’s important for that map.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of legend worksheet.
