Give a Symbol an Explicit Meaning

Supplied materials

• Paper and a pencil for a small map and its key. You can write or say each symbol’s meaning.
• Read this example: An original map key states: star means quiet spot. The picture uses that symbol once. Which label follows the supplied key? Supplied candidates: (A) animal home (B) bus stop (C) quiet spot (D) sports field.
• Try this question: An original map key states: circle means water station. The picture uses that symbol once. Which label follows the supplied key? Supplied candidates: (A) animal home (B) bus stop (C) sports field (D) water station.

Learn the idea

A symbol’s maker can choose what it means. A map key pairs each symbol with a label so readers do not have to guess. Use the key given for this map.

Reason through the supplied case: The key explicitly connects star with quiet spot, so that label is supported in this particular map. Symbols do not carry one universal meaning everywhere; a clear key helps an audience interpret the maker’s chosen convention.

A symbol does not have the same meaning in every culture, map or artwork. Use the particular key supplied for this task rather than inventing a universal meaning.

1. Read the map key. Find what the star means in this map.
2. Explain why the star is labeled quiet spot in this map.
3. Try the question and all three practice questions before checking their answers.
4. Make a three-symbol map key for water, meeting and quiet spots, then use each symbol once on a small map.
5. Check your work: All three meanings are explicitly paired with distinct symbols, and the map uses them consistently.

Check your reasoning

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Take it further

Try one more question: An original map key states: diamond means help desk. The picture uses that symbol once. Which label follows the supplied key? Supplied candidates: (A) animal home (B) bus stop (C) help desk (D) sports field. Answer: help desk. The key explicitly connects diamond with help desk, so that label is supported in this particular map. Symbols do not carry one universal meaning everywhere; a clear key helps an audience interpret the maker’s chosen convention. Now make your own work: Make a three-symbol map key for water, meeting and quiet spots, then use each symbol once on a small map. Check your work: All three meanings are explicitly paired with distinct symbols, and the map uses them consistently.

Nothing here is saved to an account or sent to a teacher. The answer download includes your current choice and any checked feedback. It does not include choices from the separate More practice section. Download that section separately.