Coordinate System and Map Design Basics Worksheet

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Background

As you work through the steps in this exercise, you’ll acquire the following skills: how to read and interpret the UTM grid coordinate system, how to critique the design of an existing map, and how to produce a well-designed map.

Part 1: The UTM Grid Coordinate System

For this section, you will use the USGS Mindego Hill topographic map (where Foothill College is located) provided. Two versions are provided, the first one contains the entire map as a single sheet. The second oneis divided into 9 sections, making it easy to print only the pertinent sheet. You will need to print it at 107% scale (actual size). If you don’t have access to a printer, you can make measurements directly on your computer screen. Make sure to display the map at 107% scale (actual size).

1. Determine the UTM coordinates for Foothill College (use the flag symbol to determine your coordinates). Foothill College is found near the northeast corner of the map. See pp. 94-5 (Grid coordinate determination) in your textbook for a procedure on how to determine grid coordinates on a map. Make sure to use proper UTM notation. Note that the grid spacing of the UTM coordinates on the topo map is 1000 meters (Show your work). Hint: This is the ratio equation set up to find the easting in the textbook example:Edit(3)

2. Explain how the use of a secant transverse Mercator projection for each UTM zone minimizes scale distortion across the zone. Read about the Universal Transverse Mercator system on pp. 86-87 in your textbook. Also, read about the tangent and secant case, and aspect on pp. 66-69. (2)

3. What landmark is located at the following UTM coordinates: 667,510mE, 4,102,960mN, Zone 10 North? Locate the city of Gilroy, CA. How many kilometers west of the landmark you identified previously is Gilroy (Show your work)? Refer to Map produced by GISsurfer from mappingsupport.com to help you answer this question. (2)

Part 2: Map critique

Critique the following maps in terms of map design. Name at least three things on how the design of each map can be improved. Use the map design concepts you learned in this module and in chapter 6 of your textbook. Note: You may mention the lack of essential map elements, but at least two of your answers should focus on other aspects of map design for this exercise such as symbolization, hierarchy, balance, readability/clarity, etc. (9 points: 3 points each).

4. Map 1

5. Map 2

6. Map 3

Part 3: Create your own finished map

For this section, you will be creating a map that could be printed for display. That is, you will make a map that contains all the essential map elements, plus it incorporates the map design principles covered in this week’s module. You will need to use a map you have created using a web GIS platform (USE ARCGISONLINE). Use the map you create to prepare a finished product. Your finished map needs to include all nine elements mentioned in the Essential Map Elements. In addition, you will need to apply the map design principles you have learned this week. You can use any software (e.g, Inkscape (freeware) Adobe Illustrator, Paint.net Powerpoint, Google Slides.) to make your finished map. Tip: You can take a screenshot of the map you create in a web GIS and import it into one of the programs above to create your finished product. But your final submission will need to be in PDF, PNG, or JPG format. (9 pts)