Project: U. S. Population OBJECTIVES Identify the key parts of a map. Use reading and mathematical skills to interpret social studies information from maps and graphs. Recognize different types of population and geographical maps.
Before You Begin
Today you will be using charts and maps to research information about your state. Before you begin, consider what type of information you can expect to find using such tools. The U. S. has over 300 million people. The U. S. Census Bureau collects all kinds of information concerning the population. You may be tempted to think that the Census Bureau only tracks population and where that population lives, but, in actuality, it keeps statistics on much more. Some statistics included are public education finances, nutrition assistance, poverty distribution, renewable energy revenue, and employment growth. The U. S. Geological Survey, or USGS, is another government-run institution that keeps data for the U. S. The USGS is a scientific agency that keeps extensive statistics on the natural sciences. Here, you can find information on earthquakes, flooding, groundwater, and much more. Directions Open up a word processing document on your computer, and title it "Map Project." You are going to work with two interactive maps to answer questions about the state you live in. Record your answers on this document to turn in for credit. This is a great time to review the five key parts of a map: Title the heading of any map Compass rose the part of the map that shows the cardinal directions Key the part of a map that defines any symbols used on the map Grid the set of lines that show coordinates identifying location on the map Scale the part of the map that shows how big it is in actual size First, go to the United States Census Bureau and look at the information on the site. Explore what kind of information you have access to about the U. S. Challenge 1 Access the Interactive Population Map to view of a map with the “Total Population” for the continental U. S.