Summary
Maps can help you visualize our world, or get from point A to point B. But even the best ones aren't totally accurate. That's because when you try to flatten a 3D globe onto a 2D map, certain aspects don’t quite translate: distance, direction, or the size or shape of features. So, cartographers have created a wide range of map projections, using different methods to transfer locations from our planet onto a flat surface. The most familiar projection, created by Gerardus Mercator, has perfectly accurate direction. That makes it ideal for navigating. But because of how latitude and longitude lines get stretched, shapes and sizes end up distorted, especially near the poles. Every type of map projection—equal-area, compromise, interrupted—comes with its own distortions, and different projections suit different purposes best. No matter which projection you use, it's important to understand how its distortions affect your understanding of the world. Want to learn more? Click "play" to take a step in the right direction!
Viewer safety
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching Map Projections:
- What is one new thing you learned about map projections?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining map projections.
- Draw or give one example of your own.