MAPS
LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Student will be able to understand and identify how maps may distort information.
SCALE Scale: “ratio between the measurement of something on the map and the corresponding measurements on the earth.” (Getis, 2010, p. 32). Large scale map: Greater detail, lower numbered ratio. (1:50,000) Small scale map: Less detail, higher numbered ratio. (1:500,000)
MAPS CAN LIE Comparing Apples to Apples vs. Apples to Cars. Lack of Scale: the sizes of some areas diminished while others are enlarged (Getis, 2010, p. 40). Sometimes omits data or features that would make map more accurate (Getis, 2010, p. 40).
LIES…CONT. Colors can cause psychological responses: Green is good Red is usually bad
LIES… Often used as propaganda. Action symbols Type of map influences the type of projection
APPLIES TO ALL TYPES OF GRAPHICS