Types of Maps word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Types of Maps word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this types of maps puzzle set for my 2nd and 3rd graders during our geography unit. The kids thought all maps looked the same until I showed them a weather map and a topographic map. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like physical map, political map, topographic map, weather map, road map, globe, legend, scale, elevation, border, capital, city, mountain, river, and symbol. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help each map type stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether a globe counts as a map. The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple map icon drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 2nd through 4th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers name one thing each map type shows on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.