IELTS writing task 1: 3 diagrams/maps with a model answer

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IELTS model answer for 3 diagrams/maps over 3 time periods.

Updated: Feb 12th 2023

Here is a tricky looking task. It consists of 3 maps/diagrams over 3 time periods showing changes that have taken place. It is easier than it looks as long as you logically group the information in paragraphs. Planning is important in IELTS writing task 1 just as it is in the essay section writing task 2.

Spend about 4 minutes planning task 1 as you must analyse the task, think of what comparisons you have to make, the language/grammar needed and also decide on a logical structure. Make sure you include an overview as this is very important for a band 7 or more.

The Task

IELTS maps model answer IELTS focus

Model answer

The diagrams illustrate how West Park Secondary School has changed since it was built in 1950. Overall, the main school building remained unchanged throughout the whole timeframe, while the farmland and houses were removed to make way for a car park, a science block and a sports field in later years.

In 1950 the area around the school consisted of houses and farmland to the left of the school. There was also a playground behind the school and a main road in front. Looking at the map for 1980, it can be seen that the houses were demolished and a science block and a car park were built there. Another noticeable change is that the farmland was converted into a sports field, while the playground remained unchanged.

By 2010, although the science block remained untouched, it is evident that the sports field was relocated and made smaller. Additionally, the playground was reduced in size to make way for a larger parking facility. The main school building itself and the main road did not change over the 60 years.

177 words

Analysis

The introduction paraphrases the task question, this can be done by using synonyms or restructuring the sentences.

Keep this part simple and concise and make sure the paraphrasing contains the same meaning as the original task question. You do not have to paraphrase every single word but do not copy whole sentences.

The overview begins with ‘overall’ and briefly summarises the main features, no major detail is given, such as years or key changes. I have only shown the main changes that have taken place. Notice that I have put the overview in the same paragraph as the introduction. This is ok if you have a short introduction.

The body paragraphs cover each map/diagram by year and the key changes. The task uses the past tense as the time periods are in the past.

There is no compass point so i did not write north, west or south etc..

I have also used the passive voice here such as   ‘it is evident that…’  and  ‘It can be seen that…’  To describe something that has been removed, use the passive such as ‘houses were demolished‘ / ‘The farmland was converted into a sports field’  / ‘the sports field was relocated..’

Keep the word count below 190 words but above 160 words. A very long report (over 200 words) does not give you a higher band score and you will end up running out of time.

Any questions? Leave a comment below.

 

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Don`t copy text!