Using the Tools of Geography

7th Grade GeographyAugust 23, 2013

Globe• A round model of the Earth itself. *By using the same shape,

mapmakers could show the continents and oceans of the Earth as they really are. The only differnece would be the scale, or size.

Problems with Globes• A globe cannot be detailed enough to be

useful and at the same time be small enough to carry.

That is why people also need flat maps.

Flat Maps• A representation, usually on a flat

surface, of the features of an area of the earth.

Problems with Maps• Flat maps present another problem. Because the Earth is

round it is impossible to show the Earth on a flat surface without some distortion, or change in the accuracy of its shapes and distances.

• Something is going to look larger or smaller than it really is.

Making Maps

• In 1569, a geographer named Gerhardus Mercator created a flat map to help sailors navigate long journeys around the globe.

• The problem with his maps was that it made areas near the poles look bigger than they really are.

• For example, Greenland looks bigger than South America when it is only one eight the size.

Making Maps• Today, many

geographers believe Arhtur Robinson’s projection is the best world map available.

• This projection shows the size and shape of the land quite accurately.

Parts of a Map

• Geographers use symbols and tools on maps. 1.-One of the most important is a compass rose, which is a model of a compass. It tells the cardinal directions, which are north, south, east, and west.

Parts of a Map2.- Maps also have an indicator for scale that

tells what a certain distance on the map stands for on the surface of the Earth.

*Scales vary depending on the map. On the map 1 inch might equal 1 mile or 100 miles

on the ground.

Parts of a Map

• Mapmakers use symbols to indicate landmarks, such as roads or towns. These symbols are explained in the key, or legend.

Parts of a Map• Maps often include a grid. Some

maps use a grid of latitude and longitude lines. Other maps use a grid of letters and numbers.

Section 2 Assessment pg. 18

• 1.- Define: geography, parallel, degree, longitude, Prime Meridian.

• 2.- Why do people study geography?

• 3.- What are the five themes of geography?

Section 3 Assessment pg.22

3.- Identify the people: • Gerhardus Mercator• Arthur Robinson

2.- Define: globe, scale, distortion, projection, compass rose, cardinal direction, key, and grid.

3.- Compare the use of maps and globes for showing the Earth-

4.- Why are the different parts pf a map important?