RockLicker · Grade 2 · Lesson 4 of 5

Symbols and Directions

Use a key and simple compass directions to locate features on a small map.

Grade 2
30 minutes
Worksheet + teacher guidance

What you will learn

A map key explains symbols. A north arrow tells how to orient directions; north is not automatically the top unless the map says so.

Words to use

north: a compass direction
east: a compass direction
key: symbol meanings

Work through the activity

5 min · Draw a frameDraw a square map and a north arrow pointing to its top. Label east on the right, south at the bottom and west on the left.
10 min · Add placesPut a classroom at the center, a tree north of it, a rock east of it and a bench south of it. Invent different symbols and add each to the key.
10 min · Read directionsAsk a partner where the rock is from the classroom. Then ask where the classroom is from the rock. Explain why the answer changes.
5 min · ReviseMake sure all four places appear and every symbol is explained. Identify a missing map detail, such as distances.

GRADE 2 · LESSON 4

Symbols and Directions

Learner / team

Date

1. Draw the imaginary park map and key.Draw on the printed sheet or write, type or dictate your response.

2. What is east of the classroom?Draw on the printed sheet or write, type or dictate your response.

3. Which direction is the classroom from the rock?Draw on the printed sheet or write, type or dictate your response.

4. Does this map tell how far apart the places are?Draw on the printed sheet or write, type or dictate your response.

Responses stay in this open page only. Print before closing or changing pages; no student record is stored online.

Check your understanding

The rock is east of the classroom. The classroom is …

Choose an answer. You can revise after reading the explanation.

Teacher & family guide · answers and assessment

Grade 2 · Symbols and Directions

Learning goal: Use a key and simple compass directions to locate features on a small map.

Expected responses

Check the stated arrangement and a key for every symbol.
The rock is east of the classroom.
The classroom is west of the rock.
No scale or measured distance is given.

Understanding check: west of the rock. Reversing the starting point reverses the direction for these two locations.

Watch for this misconception

Directions depend on the starting point. This map does not show distance.

Assess the evidence

Look for the observations, calculation or explanation named in the learning goal. Accept accurate drawings and dictated responses. Use the expected responses to discuss reasoning; a correct guess without explanation is a starting point for another conversation.

Adapt and extend

Read prompts aloud, enlarge print or let a partner record the learner’s explanation. Rotate the paper while keeping the north arrow in view. Discuss how directions remain tied to that arrow.