Geography · First maps
Map symbols
Simple symbols on maps.
What are map symbols?
Maps use tiny pictures called symbols. Symbols show important places and things. A small tree picture means a forest or park. A cross often means a hospital or medical help. Symbols help us find things quickly on a map. They are like little clues!
Why do maps use symbols?
Maps are very small compared to real places. We cannot draw real buildings on them. Symbols are easy to spot and remember. They save space on the map. Everyone learns the same symbols so maps make sense!
Common symbols you might see
A blue wavy line means a river. A small house shape means a building. A tent means a camping place. An aeroplane means an airport. A red cross means a hospital. These symbols look a bit like the real things!
Reading a key or legend
The key is a special box on the map. It shows what each symbol means. Always look at the key first! Match the symbol on the map to the key. Then you know what you found. Well done!
Worked examples
1. You see a small tree symbol on a map. What does it mean?
- Look at the tree symbol on the map.
- Find the key box at the side.
- Match the tree picture in the key.
- The key says: tree means forest or woods.
- So the symbol shows where trees grow!
2. A map shows a blue wavy line. What is it?
- Look at the blue wavy line.
- Check the map key.
- Wavy lines usually mean water moving.
- Blue wavy line means a river!
- Rivers flow and wiggle like the symbol.
3. You need to find a hospital on a map. Which symbol?
- Think: hospitals help sick people.
- Look for a cross symbol.
- A red cross or white cross means hospital.
- Check the key to be sure.
- Follow the symbol to find the hospital location!
Try it yourself
On your map, find a tent symbol. What does it show?
Ready to test yourself?
Take a short topic test — every question maps to a syllabus point so you’ll see exactly which parts you’ve mastered.