Introduce map symbols using a treasure map. Students create their own symbols for landmarks and share with the class.

1. Introduce map symbols using a treasure map. Students create their own symbols for landmarks and share with the class.

2. Conduct a scavenger hunt using a simple map. Students follow directions to find hidden objects around the classroom.

3. Create a large classroom map together. Each student adds a favorite place, discussing its importance and location with peers.

# Grade 4 Geography Quiz: Map Symbols and Treasure Maps

**Name: ________________________**  
**Date: ________________________**  

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1. A map symbol is a __________ that represents a real object or feature on a map.  
   Answer: ________________

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2. In our treasure map activity, we created symbols for different __________ found on our maps.  
   Answer: ________________

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3. One common map symbol is a star, which usually represents a __________.  
   Answer: ________________

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4. Our treasure maps included symbols for landmarks such as trees, rivers, and __________.  
   Answer: ________________

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5. When sharing our symbols with the class, we explained what each symbol __________.  
   Answer: ________________

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6. A __________ map uses symbols to help people understand the layout of an area.  
   Answer: ________________

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7. In our symbols, a blue line often represented a __________.  
   Answer: ________________

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8. It is important for map symbols to be __________ so that everyone can understand them.  
   Answer: ________________

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9. The __________ is a part of a map that explains what the symbols mean.  
   Answer: ________________

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10. After creating our treasure maps, we used them to find __________ in the classroom.  
   Answer: ________________

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# Answer Key

1. symbol
2. landmarks
3. location
4. mountains
5. meant
6. treasure
7. water
8. clear
9. legend
10. treasures

**Lesson Plan: Introduction to Maps**  
**Grade Level:** 4  
**Subject:** Geography  
**Duration:** 60 minutes  

### Materials:
- World map poster  
- Blank map templates  
- Colored pencils  
- Compass rose handouts  
- Globe  
- Projector (optional for digital maps)  

### Objectives:
1. Students will identify key elements of maps (title, scale, compass rose).  
2. Students will create their own basic map.  
3. Students will understand the difference between physical and political maps.  

### Structure:

**1. Introduction (10 minutes)**  
- Brief discussion about what maps are and why they are important.  
- Show the world map poster; point out key elements.  

**2. Direct Instruction (15 minutes)**  
- Explain components of a map: title, scale, symbols, and compass rose.  
- Discuss physical vs. political maps using the globe for illustration.  

**3. Guided Practice (15 minutes)**  
- Distribute blank map templates and colored pencils.  
- Guide students in adding a compass rose and labeling key features (e.g., mountains, rivers).  

**4. Independent Practice (15 minutes)**  
- Students will create their own map of a fictional island, incorporating elements learned.  

**5. Wrap Up (5 minutes)**  
- Students share their maps with a partner and explain one feature.  
- Quick review of map elements and answer any questions.

### Curriculum Standards Met (Montessori):
- Understanding environmental geography.  
- Developing spatial awareness through map creation.  
- Enhancing observation skills with map features.  

### Total Duration: 60 minutes

# Treasure Map Design Worksheet

### Instructions:
Design a treasure map using symbols to represent places you love. Use the following symbols:
- ❤️ for your home
- 📚 for the library
- ⭐ for your favorite playground

### Map Key:
| Symbol | Place               |
|--------|---------------------|
| ❤️      | Home                |
| 📚      | Library             |
| ⭐      | Favorite Playground  |

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### Step 1: Sketch Your Map

Draw your treasure map in the space below. Use the symbols provided in the map key to represent each place. Be creative! You can add other symbols for additional places you love.

```
_____________________________________________________
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|                                                   |
|___________________________________________________|
```

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### Step 2: Add a Legend

Write a brief legend describing your map. Explain what each symbol represents and any other important details about your treasure map.

**Legend:**

1. **❤️** = My Home
   - This is where I live with my family.

2. **📚** = The Library
   - I love to read books here and attend story time.

3. **⭐** = My Favorite Playground
   - I play with my friends and enjoy the swings and slides.

---

### Step 3: Present Your Map

Prepare to present your treasure map to the class. Use the space below to jot down some notes about what you will say during your presentation.

**Presentation Notes:**

- What inspired you to choose these places?
- Why are they special to you?
- How did you decide on your symbols?

---

### Reflection

After presenting, write a few sentences about how you felt sharing your treasure map with the class.

**Reflection:**

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

1. Create a treasure map legend with unique symbols for your landmarks, like “Giant Pizza” for a restaurant or “Dragon's Lair” for your favorite park. Share your imaginative symbols with the class!

2. Design a treasure map using symbols to represent places you love: a heart for your home, a book for the library, and a star for your favorite playground. Present your map to your classmates!

3. Imagine a wacky treasure map where “Flying Ice Cream Trucks” mark ice cream shops and “Unicorn Forests” represent parks. Create symbols for each and tell your classmates about your silly landmarks!

Design a treasure map using symbols to represent places you love: a heart for your home, a book for the library, and a star for your favorite playground. Present your map to your classmates!

Lesson Robot

Maps

Lesson Plan

Printable resource

Assessment