Using and interpreting spatial data
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can interpret spatial data shown in a variety of map styles.
Key learning points
- Spatial data can be shown on a map using points, lines and polygons.
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS) create maps that can show many forms of spatial data.
- There are some styles of maps that show spatial data in specific ways.
Keywords
Spatial data - data that is assigned to a specific location
GIS - Geographical Information System: software that create maps of spatial data, as well as digital tools to analyse it
Choropleth shading - using density of colour on a map to show the density of data spatially
Isoline - a line on a map that joins points that have the same value
Common misconception
GIS and long-hand, paper-based mapping have the same value.
While it is very possible to create representations of spatial data on paper using layers of tracing paper over a base map, the real value of GIS is its ability to analyse data quickly and be edited once the map has been digitally created.
Teacher tip
As students create their first map of spatial data (such as a choropleth or isoline map), keep the nature of the data as simple as possible. Once the technique has been mastered, students may like to experiment with multiple layers of data.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What are the names of the imaginary lines that run horizontally and vertically across Earth's surface?
Q2.What might be included on a map that shows the physical environment?
Q3.Cartography is the study and creation of .
Q4.Another term to describe data that is concentrated in one place is to say it is ...
Q5.What is a transect?
Q6.Spatial density refers to ...
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Choropleth shading is defined by ...
Q2.In what ways do GIS maps have an advantage over paper maps?
Q3.The three types of GIS data on a map are point, line and data.
Q4.What is a defining feature of a desire line map?
To help you plan your 10 geography lesson on: Using and interpreting spatial data, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 geography lesson on: Using and interpreting spatial data, 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 Geographical and statistics skills unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.