Learning Intention
Today, I will explore the difference between vector data and raster data in mapping and reflect on how perspective and positionality affect the way data is shown.
I can describe one key difference between vector and raster data and explain how maps might change depending on how data is displayed.
Maps don’t just show “the truth” — they show data in a chosen format. By learning how vectors and rasters represent information, we can see how perspective shapes the stories maps tell.
💡 If you were mapping our school, would you show it as a set of boundaries (shapes) or as a grid of colors (pixels)? Which would be more useful, and why?
Write 3–4 sentences.
| Term | Definition | Example | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vector Data | Data stored as points, lines, and polygons. | Streets, building outlines, park boundaries. | Precise, good for boundaries and locations. |
| Raster Data | Data stored as a grid of cells/pixels, each with a value. | Elevation maps, satellite images, land cover. | Good for continuous data like temperature or vegetation. |
| Resolution | The size of each pixel/cell in raster data. | A 1m vs. 30m resolution elevation map. | Determines how detailed (or blurry) the data looks. |
✅ Check for Understanding #1
Turn & Talk: When would you want a vector map instead of a raster, and vice versa?