AP HUMAN GEO FREE-RESPONSE QUESTION UNIT 1
Answer the following Free Response Question in complete sentences. You must provide specific examples to support
your responses.
Source: National Geographic (https://www.nationalgeographic.org/maps/crocodilian-ranges/)
1. The ranges of specific crocodilian species, as well as their population densities, are represented in this
map from National Geographic. Alligator species have a range mostly in the Americas, while crocodile
species have ranges in Africa, Asia, and Australia.
A. Define thematic map. A thematic map shows the spatial distribution of one or more specific data
themes for selected geographic areas.
B. Identify the types of thematic maps represented on the figure above.
C. Describe the type of regions represented on the map above. Hot or humid states
D. Describe the distribution of alligators in the world. Alligators and caimans are found almost
exclusively in North, Central and South America.
E. Describe the distribution of crocodiles in the world. American crocodiles occur in South Florida
and also can be found in Hispaniola, Cuba, Jamaica, along the Caribbean coast from southern
Mexico to Venezuela, and along the Pacific coast from Mexico to Peru.
AP Human Geography, Unit 1
Sinclair
UHS, Tucson AZ 2020
F. Explain one impact human activity might have on alligator habitats. Increasing urbanization and
human activity may further degrade alligator habitats and limit the distribution of breeding
adults, potentially leading to local population declines.
G. Explain one way this map is incomplete or misleading. It does not say where they are.
AP Human Geography, Unit 1
Sinclair
UHS, Tucson AZ 2020