Lesson 3 Lab

Lesson 3 Lab

From Data to Design

This week, we'll be making two map layouts with the same data, so as to compare two different thematic mapping techniques. During this lab, you'll also be downloading some of the data yourself, and choosing a census variable and location based on your interests. This lab is our first thematic mapping lab, but when mapping, you should integrate your design knowledge from previous lessons, such as techniques for creating balanced map layouts and neat map marginalia. The lab requirements are listed below: you should reference this page periodically as you work on the lab, and review the lab rubric as well before submitting your work.

Lab 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 3, 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.

Map Requirements

Part One: Proportional Symbols

• Create three maps at the same scale using census data to show a variable of interest to you at three different scales (state; county; census tract).
• Use the proportional symbols 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.

Part Two: Dot Density

• Create three maps at the same scale using census data to show a variable of interest to you at three different scales (state; county; census tract).
• 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.

Lab Instructions

1. Download the Lab 3 zipped file (40.2 MB). It contains:
   • a project (.aprx) file to be opened in ArcGIS Pro;
   • a database that includes the spatial data needed to start this lab.

     Note: The mapped state must contain at least 30 counties.

     The following states meet this requirement: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin.

     • Data source: US Census Bureau (TIGER boundary files)
     • Additional Census data will be downloaded from the following locations
       • United States Census Bureau TIGER/Line Shapefiles
       • United States Census Bureau Data Tool  (you can try the Advanced Search option for faster results)
2. Extract the zipped folder, and double-click the blue (.aprx) file to open ArcGIS Pro.
   • You'll see the starting file, which includes state and county boundary data. You'll need to download census tract boundary data for a state of your choosing, as well as appropriate statistical data from the US Census Bureau's American Community Survey. See the Lab 3 visual guide for further instructions. 

Grading Criteria

A rubric is posted for your review.

Ready to Begin?

More instructions are available in the Lesson 3 Lab Visual Guide.