Examples of maps
produced in G&ES 377 Computer Cartography, usually offered Fall
and Summer 1A terms.
Choroplethic map
In the first assignment students use Paint, the little raster graphics program
which comes with Windows, to make a grayscale map using state-level date they
download from the census bureau's web site. This requires use of derived data
and careful range grading (breaking the data up into meaningful intervals), creationg
of
grays,
and manipulating
boundary files so that they can be used for this purpose. Title, legend, border
colors, resizing the base maps, projections, scale, and dealing with outliers
are all addressed in this first assignment.
Color map
This assignment requires mixing of colors -- hue, value, or chroma
-- to use them to display both qualitative and quantitative information
on the same map. This usually requires two themes and two thematic types.
Proper use of color and understanding of color conventions is emphasized.
Proportional Circle Map
By applying a formula to control the area of circles and then applying
precise expansion factors, students create proportional circle maps in
which the circle area reflects some attribute value. Numerical and
proportional data on each U.S. state whow that the formula was applied
correctly. A vector graphics program is used.
Text map
Proper use of text is emphasized in this vector map. Students
find their own basse map with an internet search, and use text to supplement
a current news article. Font type, size, form, placement, color,
and capitalization conventions are emphasize.
Scattered Dot Map
This map requires assigning a dot value and dot size, and dispersal
of copied symbols across each polygon. The thematic type requires
statement of error, careful placement of dots, and often sample boxes of
known size for comparison.
Directional map
This map -- the most complicated in the course -- emphasizes use of
lines (width, type, color) and careful design for a single purpose: directing
people from all sides and distances to a specific destination. Road
exits, landmarks, legend, symbols, labels, and an inset map help to guide
the reader to a single point with a minimal of text. This map begins
with a pencil sketch, which is scanned and used as a background for on-line
tracing before more detail is added.
3D map
Using a program designed for isarithmic mapping, students create a
three dimensional surface from scattered data values for McHenry County,
Illinois.
Contour map
The same program used for the 3D map also renders a contour image.
Students control the color, intervals, text, and legend.
Back to syllabus
