Graphic Organizer: The Challenges of Representation 

Objective:

• Students will compare representation from different congressional districts to understand the circumstances and needs of different districts.

Directions: Review the following maps, information, and data pertaining to two different congressional districts. Fill out the table to organize your findings. Then answer the analysis questions that follow the table.   

 

Montana’s 2nd Congressional District  

New York’s 14th Congressional District  

 

Topic	Questions to Consider	Notes for   Montana’s 2nd District	Notes for   New York’s 14th District
Physical Features	What physical, or natural, features are prominent on this map?
Political Boundaries	What political boundaries are depicted?
Land Size	What is the land size of the district?
Population	What is the population of the district?     What is the age distribution of the population?
Population Density	How densely populated is the district?
Ethnic and Racial Composition	What is the ethnic and racial composition of the population in the district?
District Number	What number is this district? How many districts are in the state?
Additional Information	What other information is interesting on this map?

 

Analysis Questions:   

• Compare the physical features and political boundaries of both districts. How are they similar? What makes them unique? How might these features influence the economy and other aspects of life in each district? How might these boundaries affect the relationships between these districts and other districts, states, or countries?  
• Look at the population and land size of each district. How does the population relate to the land size of the district?  
• Consider the age distribution of each district. How might this age distribution impact the local economy and social services? 
• How could the amount of diversity influence cultural, economic, and social dynamics in the district? 
• How do you think these various factors affect the needs of different Congressional districts?