Is GIS the real manifestation of Harry Potter's Marauders Map? Introduce your class to the history of geographic information systems (GIS), the technology that allows for easy use of spatial information, with a resource that teaches...

Defines what maps are and provides illustrations and related links to a site devoted to cartography.

Understanding map projections is an important map-reading skill. Features graphics and links to examples of many different projections and an activity on making a Mercator projection.

Surveys the history of mapmaking from prehistoric to current times with an illustrated chronology.

A coordinate system such as latitude/longitude is an example of absolute location. Links to Greenwich/Prime Meridian.

This is a complete glossary of cartographic terms pertaining to maps of the United States.

A rich and historically significant collection of maps of various national parks throughout the United States. Features special sections on Yellowstone, Acadia, the Grand Canyon and the Smoky Mountains. Includes historical photographs of...

Famous for cartography and exploration of the Pacific and Antarctic, Planet Explorers provides a brief biography of Captain James Cook.

Read a summary of the history of map-making and the maps that were produced as a result of European exploration in the Americas. See examples of these maps and find out more about each one in this exhibit from the Mariners' Museum.

This site from the University of Arizona provides a background of Ptolemy's profound influence in the areas of astronomy, geography, and cartography. Includes good pictures and related links.

Wikipedia offers a brief biography of Martin Waldseemuller, the German cartographer who first used the name America on a map in 1507.

College-level geography tipsheet for developing an appropriate map projection.

A nice explanation of a stem and leaf plot, accompanied by many helpful examples.