1. Choropleth Maps
An easy to draw map, easy to interpret map of distribution patterns, often used to show population statistics
(A shaded map)

2. Lesson Objectives Know and understand what a Choropleth map is
Understand the advantages and disadvantages of Choropleth maps
Complete your own Choropleth map (Medium)

3. E.g.: World population density

4. E.g.: Fertility rates in Europe

5. Choropleth Maps
Choropleth maps use different colored shading to show variations between places.
They show differences between places and so show distribution patterns
They are often used to show population distribution.

6. Constructing a Choropleth Map
Each color stands for a range of values
First decide on your ranges by looking at the data and dividing it into 4-6 groups
Decide what color to shade the groups using one or two colors shading from Dark (high values) to light (low values)
After shading, give title and key

7. Advantages and disadvantages of choropleth maps
Easy to draw
Simple to interpret
Give a good overall impression of the area
They are based on averages so don’t give exact figures of particular locations
They can conceal large differences in an area

8. Medium Assignment Choose colors for shading Practice shading
Shade each country in the group the correct color
“No data” MUST be left white
Add title, north point and key

9. Describing and explaining the worldwide distributions according to your map
Describe and explain why it is so!
Always state names of countries and figures
Use correct unit (i.e. $ per capita)
Give examples of countries with highest values
Give examples of countries with lowest values
Don’t forget to also talk about the countries with medium values
Give general pattern, if any
Give exceptions to any pattern you observe
Use adjectives, e.g. landlocked/coastal
Use “high”, “moderate”, “low”, etc.
All in two paragraphs

10. Don’t make it look like this. Use 1 or 2 colors only
Don’t make it look like this! Use 1 or 2 colors only. Label country names.