AP Human Geography - Unit 1: Thinking Geographically

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts from AP Human Geography related to geographical thinking.

Isoline

A type of map that connects points of equal value with lines.

Dot Distribution Map

Depicts data as points showing how they are clustered or spread over an area.

Choropleth Map

A map where recognizable areas are shaded or patterned in proportion to a variable.

Graduated Symbol Map

Displays symbols that change in size according to the value of a variable.

Cartogram

A map where the size of regions is proportional to the value of a specific variable.

Map Projection

A scientific method for transferring locations on Earth's surface to a flat map.

Scale

The relationship between a feature’s size on a map and its actual size on Earth.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

A computer system that captures, stores, analyzes and displays geographic data.

Remote Sensing

The acquisition of data about Earth's surface from a satellite or other long-distance methods.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

Technology that accurately determines the precise position of something on Earth.

Spatial Patterns

Representations of absolute and relative distance and direction, clustering, dispersal, and elevation.

Relative Location

The position of something relative to another landmark.

Absolute Location

A fixed position identified by specific coordinates, such as latitude and longitude.

Sustainability

The ability to maintain ecological balance and avoid depletion of natural resources.

Natural Resources

Materials or substances occurring in nature that can be used for economic gain.

Land Use

Management and modification of the natural environment for human needs.

Environmental Determinism

The theory that the physical environment sets hard limits on human society.

Possibilism

The theory that the environment sets constraints, but culture is determined by social conditions.

Formal Region

A homogenous region where everyone shares common characteristics.

Functional Region

A nodal region organized around a focal point where characteristics diminish outward.

Vernacular Region

A place that people believe exists as part of their cultural identity.