II. Geographer’s Tools

A. Maps and Globes Cartographer – Mapmaker Able to make very accurate maps of the earth’s surface Global Positioning System – Use satellites to pinpoint one’s exact location

B. Differences of Maps and Globes Globe – Most accurate model of the earth shown in three dimensions Globe’s roundness makes it more accurate than a map Maps – Show the world in two dimensions and are less accurate than globes

C. Three Types of Maps General Reference – Show natural and human-made features to locate a place Thematic Maps – Focus on one specific theme Examples: Population, type of climate Nautical Map – A chart

General Reference Map                                                            

Thematic Map

Thematic Map

D. Map Projections Map Projections – Earth’s curved surface shown on a flat surface Dozens of projections All projections distort the earth in some ways Make some places look bigger or smaller than they really are

E. Types of Projections 1) Mercator Projection – Type of projection used on maps for over 400 years Makes the land at the top and bottom of the maps appear larger than they really are 2) Robinson Projection – Projection used today that gives a more accurate picture of the world

Mercator Projection

Robinson Projection