Different map projections
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can describe how different map projections show the world.
Key learning points
- The representation of Earth on a globe shows landmasses in the correct shape and relative size.
- World maps project the spherical world (three dimensions) on to a flat surface (two dimensions).
- Some projections distort shape, others distort latitude and/or longitude.
Keywords
Map projection - the representation of an approximately spherical world as a flat map, necessarily involving distortion
Two-dimensional - something that is flat - its dimensions are height (top to bottom) and width (side to side)
Three-dimensional - something that is solid - its dimensions are height (top to bottom), width (side to side) and depth (front to back)
Topography - the study of the landforms and features of land surfaces
Common misconception
Maps are always accurate.
Maps are never completely accurate.
Teacher tip
Bring a globe in and compare country sizes to a two-dimensional map.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What shape is Earth?
Q2.What is the Equator?
Q3.What is the purpose of latitude and longitude?
Q4.Why do we use maps?
Q5.The Tropic of is north of the Equator.
Q6.The Tropic of __________ is south of the Equator.
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What is the main purpose of a map projection?
Q2.What is a cartographer?
Q3.In the Mercator projection, line of latitude and longitude are all ...
Q4.Most of the world maps that we see are drawn so that which continent is central?
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: Different map projections, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 geography lesson on: Different map projections, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 geography lessons from the Geography: what makes a geographer? unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.