1. Topic: Map Projections
PSSA: A/S8.D.1.1

2. Objective:
TLW compare different types of map projections and evaluate which projections would be appropriate for mapping selected areas of the world.

3. MI #1: What are map projections?
A map is a type of physical model, which means that it is not exactly like the object that it represents.
Because the Earth is a sphere, flat maps will always contain some image distortion.
Mapmakers use map projections to transfer an image of the Earth’s curved surface onto a flat sheet.

4. MI #2: Cylindrical Projections
A cylindrical projection (sometimes called a Mercator projection) moves the contents of a globe onto a cylinder of paper.
The latitude and longitude lines are parallel, so the farther the image is north or south of the equator, the more distortion.
In many cylindrical projections, the island of Greenland appears as large as the entire continent of Africa!

5. MI #3: Conic Projections
A conic projection moves the contents of a globe onto a cone.
The cone touches many lines of longitude, but only one line of latitude.
It is best for mapping large land masses that have more area east to west (like the USA).

6. MI #4 Azimuthal Projections
An azimuthal projection moves the contents of a globe onto a flat plane.
On this type of projection the plane only touches the globe at one point.
Azimuthal projections are typically used to map the polar regions.

7. MI #5: Equal Area Projections
Equal area projections show the area between the latitude and longitude lines on a map the same size as that area on a globe.
These projections can be made from any of the others and are often used for mapping large areas like continents.
These projections are good for determining distance on a map.

8. MI #6: Modern Mapmaking
Modern mapmakers do not need to rely on the observations of explorers to make maps.
Remote sensing is a way to collect information without physically being in that place.
Remote sensing may involve cameras on airplanes, satellites, or radar imaging.

9. So What…? Real Life Application
Understanding different types of map projections allows you to compare geographic areas accurately.