All maps have distortions! What is distortion?

Distortion is a change in shape, size, or position of a place when it is shown on a map.

Can you identify these map projections? Can you explain the distortions of each?

Eckert IV: show size but distorts shape MAP PROJECTIONS Eckert IV Eckert IV: show size but distorts shape Mercator : shows direction but distorts size Goode’s: shows continents but distorts oceans Robinson: balances size and shape, fairly accurate picture of the world. Mercator Projection Goode’s Homolosine Projection Robinson Projection

What is the best representation of the world?

The GLOBE!!!

Advantages and disadvantages of using a globe vs. a map projection. Maps are 2 dimensional some parts must be stretched or distorted which changes shape, size and features. Maps show great detail and can be carried easily. Globes are 3 dimensional and shaped like the Earth. Globes don’t show details. Globes are too big to carry!

The main purpose of maps is to located things on Earth. Absolute Location: Using the geographic address or lines of longitude and latitude to find the precise point where a place is located on Earth. Also called using a global grid. Relative Location: Describing where a place is located by comparing it to another. Cardinal directions: north, south, east or west.

Let’s practice our skills using absolute location and relative location