Geography · Grades 2–7
Maps and geographical features
20 key concepts, retrieval questions and a learning checkpoint.
Start here
Read the scale and key before interpreting a map. A flat map necessarily distorts some properties of Earth’s curved surface.
Build your vocabulary
Map key
The part of a map explaining what its symbols mean.
Map scale
The relationship between a map distance and the distance it represents.
Compass rose
A map symbol showing directions such as north, south, east and west.
Equator
The imaginary latitude circle at zero degrees, halfway between the poles.
Prime meridian
The conventional zero-degree reference for longitude.
Latitude
Angular distance north or south of the equator.
Longitude
Angular position east or west of the prime meridian.
Hemisphere
One half of a sphere, such as the northern half of Earth.
Peninsula
Land surrounded by water on most sides but joined to a larger landmass.
Island
Land surrounded by water.
Archipelago
A group or chain of islands.
Isthmus
A narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas with water on either side.
Strait
A narrow water passage connecting larger bodies of water.
Delta
A sediment deposit formed where some rivers enter a larger body of water.
Tributary
A stream or river that flows into a larger river.
Estuary
A coastal water body where river water mixes with seawater.
Plateau
A broad elevated area with a relatively level surface.
Valley
A low area between higher land, often shaped by rivers or glaciers.
Contour line
A line on a map joining points of equal elevation.
Elevation
Height relative to a stated reference level, commonly sea level.
Test your recall
Maps and geographical features: which term fits this description? The part of a map explaining what its symbols mean.
- Equator
- Isthmus
- Map key
- Hemisphere
Maps and geographical features: which term fits this description? The relationship between a map distance and the distance it represents.
- Strait
- Plateau
- Archipelago
- Map scale
Maps and geographical features: which term fits this description? A map symbol showing directions such as north, south, east and west.
- Compass rose
- Island
- Prime meridian
- Equator
Check and explain
Answers and marking notes
- Map key
Map key: The part of a map explaining what its symbols mean.
- Map scale
Map scale: The relationship between a map distance and the distance it represents.
- Compass rose
Compass rose: A map symbol showing directions such as north, south, east and west.
Further reading and review references
These are reference links, not copied exercises, institutional endorsement or proof of independent review.
Learning preview · teacher review required. Grade bands are approximate, not official curriculum alignment.