social studies · Grade 2
Map Skills: The Compass Rose & Cardinal Directions
Learn to navigate maps using cardinal directions: North, South, East, and West. Fill in missing directions and answer map reading questions.
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Explore the knowledge outline and its source scope. This unit supports selected ideas.
Learning goals
- Identify the 4 cardinal directions: North (N), South (S), East (E), and West (W)
- Use mnemonic devices (e.g. 'Never Eat Soggy Waffles') to remember clockwise direction
- Interpret simple directional relationships between landmarks on a community map
Before you begin
Locate north on a map's compass rose and recognize relative positions.
Age and grade do not measure readiness. Adjust reading or adult support to preserve the intended learning goal.
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1. Practice
Practice previewMap Skills: The Compass Rose & Cardinal Directions
Practice · Independent · 15 min
Learn to navigate maps using cardinal directions: North, South, East, and West. Fill in missing directions and answer map reading questions.
Teaching and response guide
- Model the target skill: identify the 4 cardinal directions: North (N), South (S), East (E), and West (W). Use the first task as a guided example before asking for an independent response.
- Check readiness first: Locate north on a map's compass rose and recognize relative positions.
- Discuss an incorrect response using this distinction: North is determined by the map's reference, not automatically the top of every diagram.
Watch for: North is determined by the map's reference, not automatically the top of every diagram.
Check the answer criteria for each task. A supported explanation may have more than one acceptable response. These activities offer evidence to discuss; completing a sheet alone does not establish mastery.
Possible next goals
Choose the next unit when its prerequisites fit your learner.