PrintSummary and Final Tasks
Summary
Welcome to the end of Lesson 5! In this lesson, we discussed the complex process of modeling Earth's surface, and how concepts such as reference ellipsoids and datums relate to the map projections used by cartographers every day. During our discussion of characteristics of map projections, we focused on the appropriateness of various map projections for different mapping tasks: based on a map's location, scale, and purpose. Finally, we connected these ideas to a new thematic mapping technique - flow mapping. Though projection choice is often particularly consequential in flow map design—due to the nature of the data visualized, and to the large regions such maps often depict—it is an important consideration in many mapping projects. You will often have to select an appropriate map projection when making other kinds of thematic maps, including proportional symbol, dot density, and choropleth maps.
In Lab 5, we explored the effect of projection selection on small-scale thematic map design while creating map-based advertisements for London Heathrow Airport (LHR). We designed these maps using prior knowledge of visual variables and symbols on maps, and put together neat, useful layouts intended to appeal to our map readers. Prepare for another creative real-world mapping task in Lab 6!
Reminder - Complete all of the Lesson 5 tasks!
You have reached the end of Lesson 5! Double-check the to-do list on the Lesson 5 Overview page to make sure you have completed all of the activities listed there before you begin Lesson 6.