Using GIS to visualise the distribution and characteristics of global biomes
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use GIS webmaps and filters to visualise the distribution and characteristics of global biomes.
Key learning points
- Global biomes can be easily mapped using shared GIS layers in webmaps.
- Basemaps can be selected to improve the visualisation and links to prior geographical knowledge.
- GIS layers can help to visualise the spatial distribution of global biomes more clearly.
- Filters and transparency sliders can be used to toggle biome layers and explain their spatial distribution.
Keywords
Geographic information system - a GIS (geographic information system) is a computer system that captures, analyses and displays geographic data to help understand spatial patterns
Webmap - a digital map which is available online. It will usually be interactive or can be created or saved by the user online (‘in the cloud’)
Spatial distribution - the spread of information (data) across an area, creating spatial patterns which geographers attempt to describe, explain and analyse
Filter - the selection of some data in a GIS layer to visualise spatial patterns more clearly
Common misconception
An attractive basemap is important.
A basemap is a backdrop to support the visualisation of data, so it doesn't necessarily need to be attractive. Sometimes a very bland basemap is the most effective because it provides contrast with the layer of spatial data.
Teacher tip
You can familiarise yourself with the activities by watching the 'GIS guides' included in this lesson.
Equipment
Access to ArcGIS Online. For this lesson, it is not essential to log on to ArcGIS Online, but it would be desirable because the work can be saved to 'Content'. If not logged on printing is an option.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A biome is a large-scale global .
Q2.Examples of global biomes would include ...
Q3.Which word is used to mean the geographical spread of something such as population or type of vegetation?
Q4.Which word is often used by geographers to describe the pattern of something across a map?
Q5.Which term is used to describe a map which is saved electronically, often online?
Q6.Which of the following are examples of digital maps?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which term means the spread of information (data) across an area?
Q2.Which of the following is a webmap?
Q3.Match the following terms with the correct definition.
background for GIS layers
selection of data in a GIS layer
a set of spatial data
to switch a GIS layer on or off
enables fading of a layer
digital map online
Q4.Which basemap will most effectively visualise the global biomes GIS layer?
Q5.Which tool enables us to select some data in a GIS layer to visualise spatial patterns more clearly?
Q6.Sort the steps needed to use a transparency slider to compare GIS layers.
To help you plan your 10 geography lesson on: Using GIS to visualise the distribution and characteristics of global biomes, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 geography lesson on: Using GIS to visualise the distribution and characteristics of global biomes, 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 4 geography lessons from the Ecosystems, biomes and the biosphere unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.