Representing Earth’s Surface

Representing Earth’s Surface

Global Grid• Two measurements are used to describe

locations around the world.• Latitude: distance north or south of

the equator • Longitude: distance east or west of

the prime meridian

Earth Measured in degrees Just like a circle the earth has 360 degreesLines of latitude are east-west lines around the

globeLines of longitude are north-south lines around

the globeThe equator and prime meridian are 0°Expressed as degrees east or west & north or south

Pair share: what is the latitude and longitude of the X? x

Maps distort the earth: making some areas too big or small

4 types of map shapes / styles of maps for different purposes

Mapping: flattening the Earth

Developed in 1569 to help sailors travel the globeDistorts the size and shapeAccurate directions

Mercator Map

Pair share: what do you notice about the grid boxes in this map?

Shows distance, size and shape accuratelyDistortions around the edges

Robinson Projection Map

Used for road and weather map accurate over a small areaDistorted over a larger area

Conic Projection Map

Made by placing a piece of paper on a single point on the globe’s surface Distance and direction are distorted, but used

by sailors over short distances.

Gnomonic Projection Maps

1. How many degrees are used to measure the Earth?

2. What 2 places are zero degrees on the globe?

3. Name 2 problems with making accurate maps?

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