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thematic mapping — English
A graphic representation that describes the spatial distribution pattern (see “spatial distribution” and “spatial pattern”) of a specific object, condition, phenomenon, problem or any other occurrence. The aim of a thematic map is to describe the distribution of one specific variable; consequently it contains less information about unrelated variables. The nature of the variable being mapped determines whether dots, lines or patches would be used. If the theme being mapped is the global distribution of active volcanoes, dots would be ideal. If the theme is rainfall distribution, isolines (specifically isohyets which are lines that join points receiving the same amount of rain) would be used on the map. Patches and lines would be used on a thematic map of the national parks and conservation areas in South Africa, with the patches representing the national parks (that is, the theme of the map) and the lines representing the roads leading to those parks and areas (the “patches”).
