CONTENT STATEMENT
Properties and functions of geographic representations (e.g., maps, globes, graphs, diagrams, Internet-based mapping applications, geographic information systems, global positioning systems, remote sensing, and geographic visualizations) affect how they can be used to represent, analyze, and interpret geographic patterns and processes.
Content Elaboration
Geographers have a variety of tools to represent spatial data. Spatial data is information that identifies the geographic location of features and boundaries on Earth, either natural or manmade. For instance, a world map is a graphic representation of Earth’s surface drawn to scale. A map’s projection, however, may distort the appearance of the surface portrayed. A globe is a three-dimensional representation of the planet, but is not easily portable.
Geographic information systems (GIS) are databases that permit various kinds of maps to be created combining selected elements of information. Global positioning system (GPS) is a network of orbiting satellites that allow receivers on Earth to locate their exact position using latitude and longitude.
Remote sensing is information gathered about a surface from a distance (e.g., aerial photography, satellite images). Geographic visualizations range from printed maps with spatial data (e.g., cartographic maps) to interactive computer tools (e.g., three-dimensional models).
EXPECTATIONS FOR LEARNING
Explain the uses and limitations of various kinds of spatial data to represent, analyze, and interpret geographic patterns and processes.