INTRODUCTION

This webquest will examine the different types of map projections. You will learn about them while you investigate  through various interactive activities.

You will work in pairs, your classmate and you will become an inseparable team of expert cartographers. Pay close attention to everything you are going to see next because it will help you to succeed in the different missions assigned to your team.

As an expert team, you will have to investigate several map projections, answer challenging questions, and choose a map projection to study it thoroughly.

In the end, you will have to present your findings to your class in the form of a power point.

Background information: 

When we try to represent graphically the globe on a planisphere, we encounter the difficulty of having to transfer a sphere (3D surface) onto a flat surface (2 dimensions) so distortions always occur. If we unfold a sphere and put it onto an A4 paper sheet, we realize there are uncovered gaps. This is a very clear demonstration of the difficulty it involves.

There are different map projections, they may distort distance, direction, scale or area. Every projection has strengths and weaknesses.

You are the experts who will have to determine what projection is the most suitable...

First of all, please watch the following video tu put it in context (you can slow it down by clicking on the gear icon to reduce speed):

Now, click on the following link and read the text for a brief introduction to map projections:

What’s a map projection?

Go to task to learn more about your mission!