A map is a tool that can help you find your way. A map shows you where things are. You also need to know which direction to go. There are four main directions. They are north, south, east, and west. These four are called cardinal directions.
Suppose you go to a new city on vacation. You have a map. You need to go from your hotel to the zoo. You see both of the places on the map. But which direction should you go? The zoo is west of your hotel. But which way is west?
If the sun is shining, you might be able to tell directions from the position of the sun. That is how early explorers found their way. At night, they used the stars instead of the sun. But let's say it is a cloudy day. You can't tell where the sun is. You need a compass.