007 - Choropleth Mapping (Optional Lesson)

Factual Question

How can choropleth maps illustrate statistics concerning the USA?

Taken From: http://www.d.umn.edu/~eisch032/ChoroplethLab5.png

Activity One - Understanding

Answer the following questions:

  1. What is a choropleth map?
  2. Describe how a choropleth map is constructed?
  3. What are the benefits to using a choropleth map?
  4. What are the problems of using a choropleth map?

Resources

Activity Two - Construct

You will be given a base map of the USA to create a choropleth map illustrating a specific indicator. The maps will help to build up a picture of how varied the USA is despite being classified as one country.

Activity Three - Interpretation

  1. Describe the pattern of data on your choropleth map.
  2. Why do you think that pattern has occurred? Explain your answer.