Mapmakers use symbols to represent real world subjects on maps. Common symbols include using lines of Vs to depict mountains and simple symbols can effectively convey meaning if properly defined in the map key. The document asks the reader to interpret sample symbols and create their own simple symbols to represent various locations and transportation features.

1. When mapmakers create maps, they attempt to show a portion of the real world as
accurately as possible, pinpointing the proper locations of the subjects that are included
in their representation. To do this, they use symbols that represent the subjects in the
real world. For example, a common symbol for charting the location of mountains is
the use of the symbolJlVVV . This symbol can be made simply and shows some relevance
toward what it represents in the real world. To be remembered, however, is that this
symbol is not universal and has meaning only if it is properly defined in the map key.
Below aresomeother symbols that are sometimes used by mapmakers. Look at each
~~?ymboland. oecroe what you think each might represent. Write your response in the
/, blank space"beside each symbol. Share your choices withother members of your class.
-
Symbol What Symbol Could Mean
1
-HI I I I I I I I I I I
··.2·
fi., ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 4~
3
. ~ - ~ •......•.
• •
4
5 ~
.., .~.
6 -- - c::o ~c::-_~-=-c:::Itc:::ll~
, -,- '. ~
Now try your hand at your own symbols that are sirnpleano 'easy to draw, but will
serve the purpose of depicting the following: .;;. / ..::. ..: .
.... - ..
___...... _ v/'/·//." ••.. 'X·:·/.
/.·~~.. · ·;. .•.•. "'/' .. ,
.... -y :.'. . .."'. -":.~.,... -:--~.~;.-~.-~'---
..• ...
~
~ ~ - ~~
.
. ;=:..•
~ .Symbol What Symbol Could Mean ,.': .
~~ .-
.. " .. ' .. ~ ~
~~
,;~' -.
School . l.za.
'-.
L:'- -
~
Church
(
Picnic Area
Shelter
Hospital
Bike Route .'
/ RaUroad Cross,ing