World History Toolbox – Lesson 6

Cartographers use mathematical calculations to make projections in order to turn a sphere (Earth) into a flat representation (a map)

All projections cause distortion to some features of the globe. Depending on the projection, distortions

are more prominent in certain areas.

What is the message of this map?

What is the central focus?

How do the distortions change the message?

What is the message of this map?

What is the central focus?

How do the distortions change the message?

What is the center of this map?

How about now?

Option A: Create a new world map You may use color,

orientation, configuration, or anything else that will help send your message.

You may use a pre-printed map, or start from scratch.

Option B: Write a short (1 page) essay on the following questions: If you could create a

new world map, what would it look like? What story would you tell?

Include details!