002 - Perceptions

Significant Concept

To question what we perceive to be 'real'.

Key Terminology

Perception
Reality
Map

Using your own knowledge define the words above in the space on the worksheet.

Perceptions Worksheet

Activity One

What does the map below illustrate?

World Map - stephanieschlitz.com

Mark on your world map with a cross the countries in the box below.

Countries to mark on your map

Imagine you are going on a gap year and you have chosen to visit the countries you have marked on your map, join up the countries to make the shortest route.
Mark your route on the blow up globe. Are there any surprises?

Discussion

Does map size matter?

Watch

OXFAM - Peters vs Mercator - Make notes on the benefits and problems of each type of map on the worksheet provided.

Opinion

Which map do you think is closer to reality? Explain your answer.
Can that reality be different for different people and purposes?
Draw around your hand and write the following in separate fingers.

Photo Credit: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/69393384@N00/3172596111/">Jane Rahman</a> via <a href="http://compfight.com">Compfight</a> <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/">cc</a>

Who would use the Peters projection? Why?
Who would use the Mercator projection? Why?
Which map would you now use? Why?
Why is it difficult to draw an accurate map?
What have you learnt today?

Extension

What do the five countries you marked on the map have in common?

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