section 2.1

Main Idea of Maps and Globes

  • Globes and maps are tools to study places on Earth, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.

Globes

  • Definition: A three-dimensional, or spherical, representation of Earth.

  • Use: Helpful for viewing Earth as a whole, but impractical for detailed information about specific regions.

Maps

  • Definition: A two-dimensional, or flat, representation of Earth.

  • Use: Allows for detailed viewing of specific areas that a globe cannot provide.

Similar Features of Maps and Globes

  • Both serve to represent Earth's geography but differ in their dimensional layouts.

Elements of Maps and Globes

  • Title: Indicates the subject of the map or globe.

  • Symbols: Represents information such as natural resources and economic activities (e.g. industries, landmarks).

  • Labels: Names of places, including cities, countries, rivers, and mountains.

  • Colors: Used to represent various types of information (e.g. blue typically represents water).

  • Lines of Latitude:

    • Imaginary horizontal lines measuring the distance north or south of the equator.

    • Crucial for understanding geographical positioning.

  • Lines of Longitude:

    • Imaginary vertical lines measuring the distance east or west of the prime meridian.

    • Important for determining precise geographical locations.

Map Features Explained

  • Scale:

    • Demonstrates how distance on the map relates to distance on Earth.

    • Example: A half inch on a map represents 100 miles on Earth.

  • Legend (Key):

    • Explains the meanings of the symbols and colors used on the map or globe.

  • Compass Rose:

    • A design symbol indicating cardinal directions: North (N), South (S), East (E), and West (W).

  • Locator Globe:

    • Shows the specific area of the world depicted on the map; for instance, indicating where Germany is located.

Latitude

  • Definition: Imaginary lines that run from east to west, parallel to the equator.

  • Equator: The center line of latitude, marked as 0°.

  • Measurement:

    • Distance north or south of the equator is measured in degrees.

    • Ranges from 0° at the equator to 90° at the poles.

  • Example: Berlin, Germany is located at 52° N, meaning it is 52 degrees north of the equator.

Longitude

  • Definition: Imaginary lines running from north to south, connecting the North Pole and South Pole.

  • Prime Meridian: The reference line for measuring longitude, marked as 0°.

  • Measurement:

    • Distance east or west of the prime meridian, ranging from 0° to 180° both east and west.

  • Example: Berlin, Germany has a longitude of 13° E, meaning it is 13 degrees east of the prime meridian.

Absolute Location

  • Definition: The exact point where a place is located, indicated by a combination of latitude and longitude.

  • Example: The absolute location of Berlin, Germany is 52° N, 13° E, pronounced as "fifty-two degrees North, thirteen degrees East."

Hemispheres

  • Definition: A hemisphere denotes half of the Earth.

  • The equator divides the Earth into:

    • Northern Hemisphere: Contains North America and parts of Europe and Asia.

    • Southern Hemisphere: Primarily features South America, Australia, and parts of Africa.

  • Eastern Hemisphere: Located east of the prime meridian, includes most of Africa and Asia.

  • Western Hemisphere: Located west of the prime meridian, includes North America and parts of South America.

Map Lab Understanding

Ongoing Assessment Questions:

  1. Interpret Maps: Identify the types of industries located in Germany through map elements.

  2. Make Inferences: Determine the main industry in southern Germany and analyze its geographical implications.

  3. Location: Differentiate between lines of latitude and longitude regarding their orientation and purpose.