AP Human Geography: Scales of Analysis

Introduction

• Focus on Unit 1, Topic 6: Scales of Analysis
• Emphasis on how information is organized
• Scale refers to the relationship between distance on a map and Earth's surface

Types of Scales

1. Global Scale
   • Shows the entire Earth's surface
2. State/National Scale
   • Focuses on a country’s borders
3. Sub-National/Sub-State Scale
   • Looks at regions below the national level e.g., a U.S. state or region
4. County Level/City Scale
   • Further breakdown can include cities or census tracts

Clarification on "State"

• "State" refers to an area with set political boundaries controlled by a government
• In a global context, "state" can mean "country"
• U.S. is comprised of 50 different "states" but collectively they form the country

Scales of Analysis

• Focuses on how data is organized and presented
• Types:
  1. Global Scale of Analysis
     • Data not connected to country borders
  2. National Scale of Analysis
     • Data presented by state or country borders
  3. Regional Scale of Analysis
     • Data organized by districts or regions within a nation
  4. Local Scale of Analysis
     • Data detailed at the county or city level

Maps and Scales of Analysis

• Example of National Scale Map with Local Scale of Analysis:
  • Country map showing data by counties
• Example of National Scale Map with Regional Scale of Analysis:
  • U.S. map showing Federal Reserve Districts

Importance of Different Scales

• Local Scale: Provides detailed information
• National/Global Scale: Shows broader patterns and processes

Practical Example

• Deciding on the location to build a cancer hospital
  • Start with a Global Scale map with National Scale of Analysis to identify countries with high cancer rates
  • Zoom into a National Scale map with Sub-National Scale of Analysis to identify states with high cancer rates
  • Final decision based on a map with Local Scale of Analysis to choose specific county

Data Usage

• Example of median household income data organized by state
• Zoom into data organized by county for more detail

Conclusion

• Changing the scale of analysis provides varying levels of detail
• Helps make more informed decisions

Resources

• Review resources available for further study
• Ultimate Review Packet for AP Human Geography: videos, guides, practice tests, etc.