Ch. 2 Notes Day 2

Objectives SWBAT identify the position of the prime meridian and equator and explain their significance. SWBAT define and identify latitude and longitude lines on a map SBAT define and estimate the latitude and longitude of a city/location on a map

Mapping the Earth The Earth is huge, so we need a special system to determine where we are on it This special system also needs a reference point. “Hey Bill, come meet us at the malt shop.” “Sure gang, where is it?” “It’s only a few blocks.” “A few blocks from what????” NO REFERENCE POINT, NO MALT FOR BILL. 

The Two Reference Points on the Earth Just like the x-axis and y-axis in math class, we have the following lines…

The Equator (Earth’s X-axis) The Equator is a “imaginary” horizontal line that passes through the middle of the Earth, splitting it into two equal-sized hemispheres. Northern Hemisphere Southern Hemisphere

Latitude- Horizontal, parallel lines on a globe, that describe how North or South you are from the Equator. Also called a parallel. 60° North Latitude angles are measured from the center of the earth. Maximum angle of 90 Degrees. Never negative! 30° South