Lab 4: From Data to Design
Instructions
Learning Objectives
- Explore the influence of symbolization method (dot density vs. proportional symbol) and scale (state vs. county vs. Census tract) on map output and design using ArcGIS.
- Download, join, and symbolize data from the US Census Bureau.
- Create two map layouts to demonstrate the assigned thematic mapping techniques.
Overall Lab Requirements
For Lab 4, you will create and submit two map layouts. One will be composed of three proportional symbol maps; the other will be composed of three dot maps. Your final task will be to write a reflection that compares these two techniques in the context of this lab.
- Symbolize data from the American Community Survey (ACS) – chose a variable appropriate for mapping with these two symbolization methods.
- Include a written reflection (250+ words); use the following questions to guide your writing:
- For each scale (state; county; tract), which symbolization method is most appropriate?
- At the state scale, which map is most misleading? Why?
- Submit this reflection as a text comment or in a separate .pdf document.
Deliverables
Proportional Symbol Map
- Symbolize data from the American Community Survey (ACS) – chose a variable appropriate for mapping with these two symbolization methods.
- Include a written reflection (250+ words); use the following questions to guide your writing:
- For each scale (state; county; tract), which symbolization method is most appropriate?
- At the state scale, which map is most misleading? Why?
- Submit this reflection as a text comment or separate .pdf document.
Dot Density Map
- Create three maps at the same scale using Census data to show a variable of interest to you at three scales (Census tract, Census block group, ).
- Use the dot density thematic mapping technique to symbolize your data.
- Combine your three maps into one map layout with scale bars, legends, and supplemental map text (e.g., map titles, legend titles) as appropriate.
Bonus!
- Create three maps at the same scale of your city of the same variable at the Census tract, block, and block group level using the proportional symbol and dot density techniques (you should have six maps total).
- Write a written reflection (at least 100 words) on which symbolization technique is most appropriate and compare it to what you did with the dot density maps and proportional symbol maps you created for the state your city is in.
- Make sure to only use the city boundaries as your extent.
- You will get three extra points to use on this assignment or another assignment.
Submitting Deliverables
Submit all the materials in a zipped file with the naming convention of LastName_Lab3
- Submit 2 PDFs of the maps in a 8.5 x 11 inch layout using the naming conventions below:
- Map Layout 1 – Proportional Symbols: LastName_Lab4_Map1.pdf
- Map Layout 2 – Dot Density: LastName_Lab4_Map2.pdf
- PDF of your reflection statement OR you can add the text as a comment within your assignment.
Lab 4 Grading Rubric
Map 1 – Proportional Symbol Map: 6 points
|
Criteria |
Points Value |
|
Three maps using Census data to show a variable of interest of you at different scales (state; county; census tract). |
3 |
|
Use the proportional thematic mapping technique to symbolize your data with all three maps. |
2.5 |
|
Combine your three maps into one map layout with scale bars, legends, and supplemental map text (e.g., map titles, legend titles) as appropriate. |
1.5 |
|
The map is 8.5”x11.” |
.5 |
|
Total points |
7.5 |
Map Two – Dot Density Map: 6 points
|
Criteria |
Points Value |
|
Three maps using Census data to show a variable of interest of you at different scales (state; county; census tract). |
3 |
|
Use the dot density thematic mapping technique to symbolize your data. |
2.5 |
|
Combine your three maps into one map layout with scale bars, legends, and supplemental map text (e.g., map titles, legend titles) as appropriate. |
1.5 |
|
The map is 8.5”x11” |
.5 |
|
Total points |
7.5 |
