How does a map change what we see?

Name: ____________________ Date: ____________________

1. Make a prediction

On a familiar rectangular world map, which appears larger: Greenland or Africa? Why might appearance be unreliable?

2. Test the prediction

Open equalatlas.com/compare/greenland-vs-africa. Record the mapped area of each place and calculate or copy the area ratio.

3. Change the projection

Open the interactive map and switch between Equal Earth and Mercator. Describe two visible changes and one property each projection is designed to preserve.

4. Compare people and space

Choose two country profiles. Record their population reference years, mapped areas and calculated population densities. Which comparison surprised you?

5. Evaluate the evidence

Write a three-sentence conclusion. Include the projection name, one numerical comparison, and one limitation or source choice that matters.

Teacher note: expected concepts include unavoidable projection distortion, Equal Earth preserving relative area, Mercator preserving local angles, and the importance of source years and boundary definitions.