Map Projections

Robinson Projection Map

A map is a flat representation of the Earth's surface.

Map

A globe shows Earth as a sphere with a curved surface.

Globe

Globe vs Map

Multiple Choice

A flat representation of the Earth's surface.

• globe

• picture

• map

​Who makes maps?

A cartographer makes maps. A cartographer has a difficult task of creating a flat map.

Multiple Choice

A mapmaker is called

• astonomer

• geographer

• cartographer

Open Ended

Why do you think it might be difficult to make a flat map?

Why is it difficult to make a flat map?

Let's demonstrate with an orange.

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Projections

Cartographers have developed map projections to create a flat map.

Projection: a system for mapping the round Earth on a flat surface

Robinson Projection Map

The Robinson Projection Map is an oval-shaped map.

This projection was created by the American cartographer, Arthur Robinson.

Multiple Choice

An oval shaped map projection is called

• Robinson

• Mercator

• Polar

Mercator Projection Map

On a Mercator Projection Map the parallels and meridians appear as straight line. This method is good for navigating across the oceans but greatly distorts the size of the land masses toward the north and south poles.

Multiple Choice

A flat projection with straight parallels and meridians is called

• Robinson

• Mercator

• Polar

Polar Projection: The Arctic Region

Polar projection or equidistant projection shows land and water from a central point. Size and shape become more distorted as you move away from the center.

Multiple Choice

A map projection from a central location is called

• Robinson

• Mercator

• Polar

Quiz Time

Use the Robinson Projection Map hand out to answer the questions that follow.

Multiple Choice

Is Central American on the same line as Africa, Australia, or South America?

• Africa

• Australia

• South America

Multiple Choice

And now a brain teaser. Everyone knows that when it rains, there are clouds in the sky. There are clouds in the sky now. What must be true?

• It is raining.

• It is about the rain.

• There are clouds in the sky.

• It is a hot day.