Choropleth Map exercise

MAKING A CHOROPLETH MAP: MAPPING THE HISPANIC POPULATIO IN OREGON

The purpose of this project is to:

1. Learn how to construct a choropleth map

2. Learn about the distribution of the Hispanic/Latino population in Oregon and determine change over decade using Census data provided.

Turn in Map, histogram or worksheet, and written answers by Monday May 16, 2016

Using blank map and data provided, calculate percentage change in population (instructions below).

Create a choropleth map showing the PERCENT change in the Hispanic/Latino population in each Oregon county.

1. Use the attached data sheet to calculate percentage change in the Hispanic population from 2000-2010, (most recent data available).

a. For each county, take the old value and subtract it from the new one, then divide by the old value and multiply by 100. This number represents the percentage change.

2. Create a frequency histogram of the data (percentages) so that you can see the range and clustering of the data points. See http://tinyurl.com/make-histogram

3. Decide how you want to divide the data into classes. There should be at least three classes but now more than six.

4. Once you have decided on data classes, assign a color to each class and complete your map using colored pencils. Light colors are conventionally used to symbolize smaller numbers and darker or brighter are for higher numbers. Be sure to put a legend (key) on your map.

5. After your map is complete answer the following questions. (1-2 sentences each) Turn in hard copy along with map and histogram in class on Monday, May 16, 2016. (Note due date0

a. Describe the geographic pattern you see on your map. What areas have high percentages and what areas have low percentages? What do your attribute these numbers to? (You may do a little research about major occupations and/or economic development/growth in certain counties)

b. Are there anomalies that don’t fit the general pattern?

c. What does this tell you about migration/settlement patterns in Oregon?

d. How might this information be useful to leaders such as the governor, county commissioners, mayors, school superintendents?

This part of the midterm is worth 40 points total.

· 15 pts map

· 10 pts histogram

· 20 points written answers