Précis Map

Whāinga ako: Lesson Goals

 To understand the purpose of precis sketches and use the skill in context

Vertical, Oblique, Ground level, 

Precis = The word precis means a simplification or a summary of something. Therefore a precis map is a summary map.

Vertical Angle, Oblique Angle and Ground Level

Sketches in Geography can be drawn at different angles. The most common one we know is Vertical (otherwise known as "birds-eye view"). This is how we view most maps. We are also familiar with Ground Level as that is how we see the world! Oblique Angle is viewed not from over top of but on an angle looking down.

Mairehau High School seen three different ways...

Below are examples of these different views and what they are used for. Note the buildings are a little out of date!

What is the point of a précis sketch?

When out "in the field" a geographer may need to quickly note down the layout of the land/environment. 

Instead of taking a detailed photo, they:

• Draw the main features they can see

• Label important parts

• Show how things are arranged (what is next to what)

• Add short notes about what is happening
  
  

It helps them:

• • Remember what the place looked like

  • Show patterns (e.g. where houses are built, where trees grow)

  • Explain how people use the space

  • Compare places later