MAPS AND GLOBES Coxwell

Hey! What’s the difference? Globes are more accurate than maps. Globes are round scale models of the earth. Maps are flat drawings of all or part of the earth’s surface. Maps can show small areas in great detail. (Globes cannot)

Round to flat? Cartographers are map makers. They use math formulas to transfer information from a round globe to a flat map. Distortion happens because the round lines become flat. This means size, shape, and distance of an area can change. (Rock on cartographers)

What would we do without computers? Today map makers use software called geographic information system (GIS). It uses satellite images, printed text, and statistics to make maps. LANDSAT: PHOTOS FROM SATELLITES. GPS: Global positioning system helps people locate places based on coordinates. (More about the grid system in our next lecture)

You’ve got the map upside down! Maps have different parts to help you read it. Map key: explains lines, colors, and symbols. Scale: shows distance. Compass Rose: shows directions.

Not just any ol’ map will do! There are different types of maps. Each shows different types of information.

General Purpose Maps. General Purpose Maps shows a wide range of info. Ex: physical and political maps.

Physical maps Physical maps show landforms and water. It can use color or lines. It shows RELIEF or how flat or rugged the land surface is. It also shows elevation.

Political maps Political maps show boundaries of countries, the location of cities, and other human made features.

Special Purpose maps Special purpose maps are also called Thematic maps. They show specific topics like climate, population etc.

Are there any questions?