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This page is the assignment method. Follow the workflow in order, use the linked workbench to build the product, and use the quality dimensions before submitting.
Complete the workflow
Define the planning question
State the decision, study area, affected resource or development issue, and why a map is needed.
Proof before moving on: One bounded planning question and mapped extent.
Audit the provided data
For each layer record source, date, units, coverage, resolution, classification, limitations, and whether the data are suitable for screening or decision making.
Proof before moving on: Layer inventory and provenance card.
Prepare consistent classes
Use slope classes of 15 to below 20 percent, 20 to below 25 percent, and 25 percent or above. Document all other thresholds and do not classify missing elevation as flat.
Proof before moving on: Nonoverlapping classification table.
Choose only relevant layers
Select slope, floodplain, wetlands, water, canopy, ecological or wildlife corridors, recreation, historic resources, working lands, sinkholes, ownership, access, or utilities only when they answer the question.
Proof before moving on: Layer-relevance explanation.
Analyze relationships
Identify overlaps, proximity, conflicts, opportunities, and data gaps. Distinguish mapped overlap from an assumed causal relationship.
Proof before moving on: Overlap and conflict matrix tied to mapped locations.
Select a proportional response
Compare no action, field verification, avoidance, clustering, conservation design, easement, subdivision standard, zoning concept, infrastructure change, or further study.
Proof before moving on: Alternative comparison and selected response.
Build and check the map
Use a clear legend, north arrow, actual scale, source/date note, limitations, readable labels, and accessible colors. Explain the planning implication in plain language.
Proof before moving on: Map, method note, recommendation, and verification need.
Minimum evidence
- Planning question and extent
- Layer inventory with sources and dates
- Confirmed slope classes
- Coverage and missing-data explanation
- Mapped overlap or relationship evidence
- Alternative implementation responses
- Plain-language implication and limitation
Submission package
- Accessible PDF map
- Editable map or project file
- Map/data provenance card
- One-page method and interpretation note
- Source data list
- Signed honor statement
What strong work looks like
Question fit
Every mapped layer helps answer the stated planning question.
Data integrity
Coverage, units, dates, thresholds, and missing values are explicit.
Analysis
The work interprets relationships rather than merely stacking layers.
Action
The recommendation is proportional to screening-level evidence and names verification.
Original assignment requirements
- Choose layers that answer a defined planning question.
- Use percent-slope classes of 15 to below 20, 20 to below 25, and 25 or above.
- Document data source, date, coverage, units, and limitations.
- Separate no mapped feature from no data coverage.
- Explain implications and propose proportionate zoning or subdivision recommendations.
Provided in this course
- Instructor-provided regional data
- Conservation analysis tool
- Layer-source and provenance guide
- Accessible map-layout template and rubric
Before you submit
- Why is each layer relevant?
- Which conclusion is supported by overlap rather than merely proximity?
- What needs field or staff verification?