Using a Compass Rose
North, south, east and west: four words that help explorers find their way.
On the last page, you met the compass rose. It is one of the four map parts. Now let's learn to use it!
The Four Cardinal Directions
North, south, east and west are called the cardinal directions. That is a big name for the four main directions.
North (N)
On most maps, north is at the top. Look for the N on the compass rose to be sure.
South (S)
South is the opposite of north. On most maps, it is at the bottom.
East (E)
When north is at the top, east is on the right side of the map.
West (W)
West is the opposite of east. When north is at the top, west is on the left.
Memory trick: Start at the top and go around clockwise: N, E, S, W. "Never Eat Soggy Waffles!"
A compass helps too
A compass is a tool with a needle that turns. The needle is a little magnet. Its north end points toward Earth's magnetic north, close to the North Pole. Explorers use it to know which way they are going.
Try the interactive version at jugami.com/maps-explorers/compass-rose/
Which Way? Game
The explorer is in the middle of the park. Read the clue, then pick the direction.
Score: 0 / 4
Self-Guided Quiz
Answer key (for checking without JavaScript)
1. North · 2. West · 3. cardinal directions · 4. North · 5. North
Question 4 is about our own park drawing, which is made up.
Sources
- National Geographic Education: Compass
- National Geographic Education: Map
- NOAA NCEI: Geomagnetism FAQ (Does the compass needle point toward the magnetic pole?)
Art: the compass rose and the park map are original SVG drawings made for Jugami. The park is made up.