Maps Why Maps Matter

Maps A two dimensional graphic representation of selected parts of the earth’s surface. Problem- ALL ARE DISTORTED!!! Size Shape Distance Globes are the best representation of the earth’s surface

Map Projections

Map Projection- round earth on a flat surface Globe best way to show the earth Planar (Azimuthal) Robinson (aka Compromise) shape is distorted in polar areas

Mercator. distorts size and distance (see Africa Mercator distorts size and distance (see Africa compared to North America)

Types of Maps

Political. Shows boundaries, states,. human made features, like Political Shows boundaries, states, human made features, like cities and roads. More political maps

Cartograms Information is shown in size and distance http://show.mappingworlds.com/world/

Physical shows bodies of water, rivers, mountains, elevation More examples:

Qualitative

Flow line

Special Purpose Maps Give a single idea or a particular kind of information More examples:

Where Google Street View is Available

McDonald’s Across the World

Worldwide Driving Orientation by Country

Map of Where 29,000 Rubber Duckies Made Landfall After Falling off a Cargo Ship in the Middle of the Pacific Ocean

into the Mississippi River The 7000 Rivers that Feed into the Mississippi River

Latitude and Longitude Earth’s Population by Latitude and Longitude