1.1: Intro to Maps

​1.1 - Intro. to MAPS

​A map is...

"a symbolic representation of selected characteristics of a place, usually drawn on a flat surface" (NatGeo)

​Per author and

map blogger Frank Jacobs:

“The main question that you can ask with any map is, ‘Why?’ Why did someone make this? What’s the point? What’s the story and who is telling it? Every map is an attempt to convince you of something; it’s like an argument. It’s in your best interest to know who is trying to convince you.”

​Big Idea #1 and

Unit Essential Question:

​EQ: Why do geographers study spatial relationships and patterns among and between spaces?

​PATTERNS & SPATIAL ORGANIZATION

​Big Idea #2 and

Unit Essential Question:

​EQ: How do geographers use maps to help them discover patterns and relationships in the world?

​IMPACTS & INTERACTIONS

​Big Idea #3 and

Unit Essential Question:

​EQ: How do geographers use a spatial perspective to analyze complex issues and relationships?

​SOCIETAL PROCESSES & SOCIAL CHANGE

​TOPIC 1.1 LEARNING OBJECTIVE:

​Identify types of maps, the types of information presented in maps, and different kinds of spatial patterns and relationships portrayed in maps.

​TOPIC 1.1

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE:

​Types of maps include reference maps and thematic maps.

​TOPIC 1.1

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE:

​Types of spatial patterns that can be represented on maps include absolute and relative distance and direction, clustering, dispersal, and elevation.

​TOPIC 1.1

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE:

​All maps are selective in information; map projections inevitably distort spatial relationships in shape, area, distance, and/or direction.

​NOW IT'S TIME FOR YOU TO LEARN A TERRIBLE SECRET:

​ALL MAPS LIE*!!​

​*But most also tell the truth​.