AP human geography

• Map projections


  A map projection is a method to display the curved surface of the Earth on a flat map. The purpose is to help us visualize and understand geographic locations, distances, and relationships. Different projections serve various needs, like navigation or showing population density.
• Longitude and latitude


  Longitude and latitude are coordinates that help us find exact locations on Earth.

  Latitude measures how far north or south something is from the equator, ranging from 0° at the equator to 90° at the poles.

  Longitude measures how far east or west something is from the Prime Meridian, which is 0°.

  They are used for navigation, mapping, and locating places.
• Using spatial patterns to make decisions

  Spatial patterns refer to the way things are arranged or organized in space, like cities, rivers, or farms. Understanding these patterns helps us see relationships and trends, like population density or land use. By analyzing these patterns, we can make better decisions about things like where to build new schools or plan transportation.
• Scale of inquiry


  The scale of inquiry refers to the level at which we explore a question or problem, ranging from local to global. It helps us determine how detailed our research should be, like studying a single neighborhood vs. an entire country. The purpose is to focus our investigation and get better answers by choosing the right perspective.
• Map scale


  Map scale shows the relationship between distance on the map and distance in real life, often as a ratio or fraction. A large-scale map shows a small area in more detail, like a city, while a small-scale map covers a larger area but with less detail, like a whole country. Different scales can change how we understand places and distances.
• Local map scale


  Local map scale refers to a type of map that focuses on a small area, like a neighborhood or town. This scale provides detailed information about streets, buildings, and landmarks. It helps people find their way around or learn more about their community.

  
• National map scale


  National map scale shows a country's entire layout, including states, major cities, and natural features like mountains and rivers.

  These maps provide a broader view but with less detail than local maps. They're useful for understanding geography, travel routes, or planning longer trips.

  
• Global map scale


  Global map scale represents the entire world, showing continents, oceans, and countries. These maps give a wide view of the Earth's geography but have very little detail about specific areas. They're helpful for understanding global relationships and patterns.

  
• Formal regions 


  A formal region is an area defined by specific characteristics, like language, climate, or government. These regions have clear boundaries and are often recognized by everyone, like states or countries. They help us understand how places are similar or different.

  
• Functional regions


  Functional regions are areas organized around a central point or hub, where the surrounding areas are connected to it. For example, a city and its suburbs work together for jobs, shopping, and services. These regions show how locations depend on each other.

  
• Perceptual region


  A perceptual region is an area defined by people's feelings, attitudes, and beliefs about it. Unlike formal or functional regions, perceptual regions can vary from person to person, like "the South" or "the Midwest." These regions are based on cultural or emotional connections.

  
• What are megastores?


  Large retail stores that sell a wide variety of products, often at lower prices
• How can megastores impact local businesses in cultural district zones?

  They can overshadow local businesses and change the area's unique character
• What are the potential consequences of megastores overshadowing local businesses?


  It can lead to a loss of local culture and small shops that make the area special
• What strategies can megastores use to succeed in cultural districts?

  • Respect the local community
  • Support local businesses
  • Celebrate the area's culture
  • Offer unique products that reflect local culture
  • Hold events to engage with the community
  • Provide excellent customer service
  • Create a welcoming environment
• Why is it important for megastores to respect the local community?

  To support local businesses and celebrate the area's culture
• How can megastores engage with the community in cultural districts?

  By holding events that involve local residents
• What role does customer service play in attracting local shoppers to megastores?

  Excellent customer service can help create a welcoming environment