Map Symbols and Direction
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Lesson overview
Reading conventional signs and compass bearings.
Go to lesson quiz →Exam guidance · WAEC WASSCE Paper 1 + Paper 2 Lens
Pacing
Objective speed on Paper 1 + structured step-by-step method marks on Paper 2 Theory/Practical.
How WAEC marks this
Examiners award method marks (M1) for stating the formula/definition and accuracy marks (A1) ONLY when SI units are written.
Watch out for
Writing bare numbers without working or omitting SI units loses up to 50% of Paper 2 marks even when the final value is right.
Lesson content
Overview — Map Symbols and Direction
Reading conventional signs and compass bearings. This lesson is at the beginner level — by the end, you'll be able to recognise this question type, apply a reliable method, and avoid the traps that cost marks.
Key Concept
Maps use standardised SYMBOLS to represent real features (e.g. a specific symbol for a school, church, or river) explained in a map's KEY/LEGEND. DIRECTION on a map is read using the compass (N, S, E, W and intermediate points) or, more precisely, as a BEARING measured in degrees clockwise from North.
Why It's Tested This Way
WAEC/JAMB test symbol recognition and bearing calculation together because both are essential 'literacy' skills for reading any map correctly — a map is unreadable without knowing what its symbols mean and how to orient yourself on it.
Method
To find a bearing between two points, draw or imagine a line from North at the starting point, then measure the angle clockwise to the line joining the two points — always give a bearing as a three-digit number (e.g. 045°, not 45°).
Worked Example
Worked example: A point due East of your position has a bearing of 090° (a quarter turn clockwise from North).
Second Worked Example
Second worked example: A point exactly Southwest of your position has a bearing of 225° (halfway between South at 180° and West at 270°).
Common Traps
Common trap: giving a bearing as a two-digit number when it should be three digits (e.g. writing '45' instead of '045') — WAEC specifically requires the three-figure bearing convention.
Lesson Summary
Remember: (1) identify what is being asked, (2) apply the WAEC strategy, (3) check against the traps. Complete the 10-question quiz below to unlock the next lesson — you need at least 60% to pass.
Mastery Check · Lesson Quiz · pass 60%
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