Comparing Globes and Maps
We use globes and maps as tools to display and locate places on Earth but in different ways. Each tool has
its own advantages and disadvantages. Read this article to compare the differences.
Globes:
A globe is a round model of Earth. That means it’s round just like the Earth but smaller. A globe shows
accurate shapes, sizes and distances of land and water. Accurate means something is exactly right or
correct. Globes are the most accurate tool to show the real size and shape of a place.
However, have you ever tried to take a globe in the car for a road trip? It wouldn’t be very useful for
several reasons. First, a globe is not very portable due to its size. Second, a globes’ main purpose is to
display the continents and oceans, not roads or landmarks. Another disadvantage is that you can only see
one side of the world at a time. Therefore, globes are not convenient.
Maps:
A map is a flat drawing of the earth. A map is more convenient than a globe because it is flat. Convenient
means that something is easy to use. You can fold a map and take it anywhere. Computers and smart phones
with GPS systems use maps. Another advantage is that maps can be more detailed for a special purpose
such as: focusing on one place, road maps, elevation maps, population maps or climate maps.
G.P.S. in cars is very convenient
Using a paper map in the car
Even though maps are convenient, a major disadvantage is that they are not as accurate compared to
globes. Maps show distortion which means the sizes and shapes are not accurate. The distortion is caused
because map makers have to display a round earth into a flat map. Study the interrupted map below. A
map like this is not easy to read, so they stretch the empty spaces and create distortion. The areas near
the poles have the wider gaps so there is more distortion in those areas.
Globes Vs Maps Notes
Vocabulary- Write the definition. Use the article to find the definitions.
Globe:
Map:
Convenient:
Accurate:
Distortion:
Directions: Use the phrases in the box to list the advantages and disadvantages of globes and maps. Refer back to
article for more help.
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convenient, can go anywhere
sizes and shapes are accurate
only displays continents and oceans
used in GPS on phones and computers
most accurate tool to show earth
* can be more detailed or focus on one area
* shows distorted land sizes or shapes
* special purpose like climate or population
* only see one side of the world at a time
* not convenient to use because it is not portable
Globes
Maps
Advantage

Disadvantage

Advantage

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*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Disadvantage

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