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How To Write an IELTS Map Essay

IELTS map questions are the easiest to answer. There are no numbers to analyse, just 2 or 3 maps to compare. Very occasionally, there might only be a single map, but this is rare.

The maps will be of the same location at different times. This could be in the past, the present time or a plan for a proposed development in the future. You are required to write about the changes you see between the maps.

There are 5 steps to writing a high-scoring IELTS map essay:

1) Analyse the question

2) Identify the main features

3) Write an introduction

4) Write an overview

5) Write the details paragraphs

I must emphasise the importance of steps 1 and 2. It is essential that you complete this planning stage properly before you start writing. You’ll understand why when I guide you through it. It should only take 5 minutes, leaving you a full 15 minute to write your essay.

In this lesson, we’re going to work through the 5 stages step-by-step as we answer a practice IELTS map question.

Before we begin, here’s a model essay structure that you can use as a guideline for all IELTS Academic Task 1 questions.

Ideally, your essay should have 4 paragraphs:

Paragraph 1 – Introduction

Paragraph 2 – Overview

Paragraph 3 – 1 st main feature

Paragraph 4 – 2 nd main feature

We now have everything we need to begin planning and writing our IELTS map essay.

Here’s our practice question:

The maps below show the village of Stokeford in 1930 and 2010.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Step 1 – Analyse the question

The format of every Academic Task 1 question is the same. Here is our practice question again with the words that will be included in all questions highlighted.

Every question consists of:

Sentence 1 – A brief description of the graphic
Sentence 2 – The instructions
The graphic – map, chart, graph, table, etc.

Sentence 2 tells you what you have to do.

You must do 3 things:

1. Select the main features.

2. Write about the main features.

3. Compare the main features.

All three tasks refer to the ‘ main features ’ of the graphic. You do not have to write about everything. Just pick out 2 or 3 key features and you’ll have plenty to write about.

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

All you are looking for are the main features. Start with the earliest map. Identify the key features and look to see how they have changed in the later map, and again in the final map if there are three.

Here are some useful questions to ask?

1) What time periods are shown?

Are the maps of past, present or future situations? This is important to note because it will determine whether you write your essay using past, present or future tenses.

The two maps in our practice IELTS map question show the village of Stokeford at two different times in the past. This immediately tells us that we will need to use the past tense in our essay.

2) What are the main differences between the maps?

What features have disappeared? What new features are in their place?

3) What features have remained the same over the time period?

Although the location on the maps will have undergone major development, some features may remain unchanged.

Also, think about directional language you can use, such as:

So, what information is contained our maps? Here they are again.

Source: IELTS past paper

There are a number of different features we could select such as, the loss of the shops, the disappearance of farmland, the enlargement of the school and the development of the large house into a retirement home.

Many maps will contain far more changes than our sample maps and the changes may be more complex. In such cases, you won’t have time to write about all of them and will need to select just 2 or 3 main features to focus on.

Our maps are quite simple so we’ll list all 4 of the major changes I’ve just identified.

Main feature 1: The farmland has been built on.

Main feature 2: The large house has been converted into a retirement home.

Main feature 3: The school has been enlarged.

Main feature 4: The shops have disappeared.

The key features you select will be the starting point for your IELTS map essay. You will then go on to add more detail later. However, with just 20 minutes allowed for Task 1, and a requirement of only 150 words, you won't be able to include many details.

We’re now ready to begin writing our essay. Here’s a reminder of the 4 part structure we’re going to use.

For this essay, we’ll adapt this a little to write about two of the features in Paragraph 3 and the other two features in Paragraph 4.

Step 3 – Write an Introduction

In the introduction, you should simply paraphrase the question, that is, say the same thing in a different way. You can do this by using synonyms and changing the sentence structure. For example:

Introduction (Paragraph 1):

The two maps illustrate how the village of Stokeford, situated on the east bank of the River Stoke, changed over an 80 year period from 1930 to 2010.

This is all you need to do for the introduction.

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

In the second paragraph, you should describe the general changes that have taken place. The detail comes later in the essay.

State the information simply. No elaborate vocabulary or grammar structures are required, just the appropriate words and correct verb tenses.

For example:

Overview (Paragraph 2):

There was considerable development of the settlement over these years and it was gradually transformed from a small rural village into a largely residential area.

Two sentences would be better than one for the second paragraph but we’ll be getting into the detail if we say more about these maps at this point, so we’ll leave the overview as one sentence.

Step 5 – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Paragraphs 3 and 4 of your IELTS map essay are where you include more detailed information. In paragraph 3, you should give evidence to support your first 1or 2 key features.

In the case of our main features, 1 and 3 are closely related so we’ll write about these two together.

Here they are again:

And this is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 3 :

The most notable change is the presence of housing in 2010 on the areas that were farmland back in 1930. New roads were constructed on this land and many residential properties built. In response to the considerable increase in population, the primary school was extended to around double the size of the previous building.

Step 6 – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

For the fourth and final paragraph, you do the same thing for your remaining key features.

Here are the two we have left:

This is an example of what you could write:

Paragraph 4 :

Whilst the post office remained as a village amenity, the two shops that can be seen to the north-west of the school in 1930, no longer existed by 2010, having been replaced by houses. There also used to be an extensive property standing in its own large gardens situated to the south-east of the school. At some time between 1930 and 2010, this was extended and converted into a retirement home. This was another significant transformation for the village.

Here are the four paragraphs brought together to create our finished essay.

Finished IELTS Map Essay

This sample IELTS map essay is well over the minimum word limit so you can see that you don’t have space to include very much detail at all. That’s why it is essential to select just a couple of main features to write about.

Now use what you’ve learnt in this lesson to practice answering other IELTS map questions. Start slowly at first and keep practicing until you can plan and write a complete essay in around 20 minutes.

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Ielts academic writing task 1 – all lessons.

IELTS Academic Writing – A summary of the test including important facts, test format & assessment.

Academic Writing Task 1 – The format, the 7 question types & sample questions, assessment & marking criteria. All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 1 Questions – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 1 Essay – Discover 3 reasons why you must plan, the 4 simple steps of essay planning and learn a simple 4 part essay structure.

Vocabulary for Task 1 Essays – Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF.

Grammar for Task 1 Essays – Essential grammar for Task 1 Academic essays including, verb tenses, key sentence structures, articles & prepositions.

The 7 Question Types:

Click the links below for a step-by-step lesson on each type of Task 1 question.

Table Chart
Process Diagram
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IELTS Writing
IELTS Maps Essays
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How to describe a map for academic task 1

In task 1 of the academic writing component of the IELTS exam , you may be asked to describe a map or plan.

The diagram will be of a building, street, village, city or town plan that may ask you to contrast the past and present, or the present and future.

There will also be a key that explains different locations on the map or a reference to roads and routes. You are expected to write a 150-word description of the information on the map, which will probably include buildings, routes or proposed changes for the future.

Your writing will be scored on four criteria: task achievement, coherence, lexical resources and grammatical accuracy. Let’s review techniques to achieve a good score in all four areas.

1. Organise your thoughts

Organise your thoughts before starting. This is critically important.

Plan what you will include for each paragraph. A good technique is to explain the area as if you were walking in. So if you had a map of a house, you would start with the doorway or entrance hall.

Alternatively, if the map is larger you can start from right to left. Just make sure it’s logical i.e don’t jump from right to left to centre.

TIP: While planning, look for opportunities to group the information, for example; both maps may have an area that is unchanged between the time dates. This can be written up as:

Over the fifty year period both maps have maintained a distinct recreational area despite the extensive construction in the surrounding areas.

2. Task achievement

Be sure to write at least 150 words that describe all information illustrated in the map or plan. Take about three minutes to understand the map, identify changes and circle the key points.

Summarise the main changes or information in the introduction and give more detail in the main part of your text. Give a short summary to sum up the impact of these changes on the town or area.

3. Coherence

The format of your text should be written in three to four paragraphs: an introduction, main paragraph(s) and conclusion.

The use of connectors, such as First of all, In addition to and To summarise , are important to maintain coherence and a logical flow of ideas in your work.

Other useful structures would be; opposite, in front of, on the right, to the north, to the south, etc. Maintain separate paragraphs to distinguish changes or comparisons.

For example, use your second paragraph to give details of the first map and write about the next map in your third paragraph.

4. Language

Be sure not to repeat the vocabulary shown on the map, but use your own words for the description. Let’s consider useful vocabulary to describe a map or plan.

In your initial paragraph, you can use verbs such as show, demonstrate or illustrate . For example:

This map illustrates plans to change the green area into a playground for children.

Of course, try to use synonyms to add variety to your use of language. Synonyms of illustrate are highlight, indicate or demonstrate .

= This map highlights a project to transform the green park into a play area for children.

To describe location, employ useful prepositions :

There is a large residential area between the small lake and the park.

A road runs alongside the border of the park.

As we are describing a map or plan, it is essential to use compass points to describe direction. For example:

This plan proposes to build a playground in the south-west part of the park.

The airport is currently located north-east of the town.It will be moved to the west of the park where there is more space.

A lot of other useful vocabulary for maps or plans includes town centre, residential area, roads, routes, railway station and traffic-free zone .

Where possible, use synonyms to avoid repetition.

TIP: Comparisons, and superlatives are also valuable points winners!

The passive form The passive form is often used in this type of writing task, as we do not know who is planning these changes. For example:

The park is located west of the village. The playground will be built in the south-west part of the park. A flower garden will be created east of the playground.

Use a range of tenses. As you may compare the present with future plans, show your ability to use theses times:

Currently, there is a traffic-free zone in the center of the park. This zone will be expanded to the west area of the park.

In 2014, there was a train station located in the north-east of the region. Currently, this station is now based in south of the village.

When making recent comparisons, it’s useful to employ the present perfect simple:

A new hospital has been constructed in the east of the village.

There have been two new roads built around the border of the town.

To achieve a higher score in IELTS academic writing task 1, it’s advisable to use some clauses:

To the south of the river, a new hotel has been constructed.

Greystones, which has a population of 50,000 , is situated south of Dublin on the seaside.

Take a look at IELTS academic task 1 sample essays to help you prepare and check out our IELTS essay correction service to help you improve.

Video: Describe an IELTS map - task 1. With band 9 model answer

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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Map With Model Answer

Pen and highlighters over blank IELTS writing map - image by Magoosh

Some IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 questions present a map, which you’ll need to describe and explain. To give you a better idea of how to approach this Task 1 question type, we’ll show you a practice question with a model band 9 essay .

To see why this essay is band 9, see our Band 9 essay with scorer commentary , and check out the official IELTS rubric for Task 1 (PDF) .

This particular prompt is an IELTS map . Your approach to this map should be the same as your approach to any other Task 1 infographic. Take a look at the information and think carefully. What is the best way to summarize the way the information is structured and the main points? From there, how can you best compare the most relevant pieces of information? Finally, how should you structure that summary and comparison? For more advice on how to approach this, see our article on IELTS Academic Task 1 paragraph structure , as well as our main page for IELTS sample questions and practice resources .

Try to do this prompt yourself. Then check out our band 9 model essay below the prompt and compare it to your own work to see how you did.

Model IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Prompt: Describe a Map

The diagrams below show changes that have taken place in the Sawry District neighbourhood since 1920.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Model Essay

This pair of maps depicts change over the course of a century in the Sawry District neighborhood by showing the area in 1920 and 2020.

The overall change in the neighborhood is one of growth. By 2020 there are more businesses, more housing, and greater public services. However, not all businesses and services remained intact after 1920.

Business and housing saw the most change and growth. The cannery present in 1920 was replaced by an office complex. Two of the houses near the Elmwood River were demolished and replaced by a road and an apartment complex. Oak Avenue went from having two houses and a shop to having three houses, two shops, an apartment complex, and a petrol station.

The change in public services was less significant than the change in housing and businesses. Prestwich Primary School was demolished and then rebuilt as a bigger school, closer to Oak Street’s shops. And Elmwood River gained a bridge and a bike path, the latter of which replaced the small beach seen on the 1920 map.

More Practice IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Sample Questions with Model Essays

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Process Diagram with Model Answer
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Bar Chart With Model Answer
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Line Graph with Model Answer
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Pie Chart with Model Answer
IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Comparing two Graphics with Model Answer

Also, make sure you are prepared for the entire Writing section. Click here for a page full of IELTS Writing resources .

David is a Test Prep Expert for Magoosh TOEFL and IELTS. Additionally, he’s helped students with TOEIC, PET, FCE, BULATS, Eiken, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. David has a BS from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His work at Magoosh has been cited in many scholarly articles , his Master’s Thesis is featured on the Reading with Pictures website, and he’s presented at the WITESOL (link to PDF) and NAFSA conferences. David has taught K-12 ESL in South Korea as well as undergraduate English and MBA-level business English at American universities. He has also trained English teachers in America, Italy, and Peru. Come join David and the Magoosh team on Youtube , Facebook , and Instagram , or connect with him via LinkedIn !

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2 responses to “IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Map With Model Answer”

The maps illustrate how the Sawry district neighborhood changed over a period of a century from 1920 to 2020. Overall, the change in the neighborhood developed and had more business, housing, and greater public services by 2020. However, some businesses were not same after 1920. Business and housing contributed the most to the development. An office complex took over the place of the cannery of 1920. Due to the expansion of the road to the Elmwood river, two of the housing complexes were knocked down and added with a brand-new apartment complex. The number of housing and shops rose at the Oak Avenue. Though the development in public services was not as drastic as housing and business, the Prestwitch primary school was relocated and built a bigger one affecting some of the woods near the shop area. A petrol station was installed at the place of the former small primary school close to the miller’s lake. A bridge was constructed across the Elmwood river to connect the Sawry district to the other part of the city. A bike path at the bank of the river took over the small beach seen a century before.

The map depicts the transformation of a neighbourhood in Sawry district over a century, specifically from 1920 to 2020.

The district experienced prominent changes in the timeframe resulting in newer infrastructure, relocation of pre-existing businesses and demolitions.

Tulebug bros. cannery was situated on the Northwest of the Oak avenue in the year 1920, with a few houses set northeast near the beach by the elmwood river. The southern region of oak avenue had a primary school named Prestwich with fewer houses than the northern area, with the inclusion of a shop.

By 2020, this northern area was altered dramatically, with the replacement of the Cannery by Yang office complex and additionally on the northeastern bend, a bridge was constructed over the Elmwood river and a bike path underneath, just by the river bank where the beach was previously situated.

Additionally, the southern region of the district changed as well, with the relocation and development of the Prestwich primary school, and inclusion of a petrol station where it used to be. Apartment complexes were established, which was new to the community and an additional shop to possibly meet the demands of the growing neighborhood.

IELTS Writing Task 1 Maps Lesson

Introduction.

This guide on IELTS Writing Task 1 maps questions will cover:

Different kinds of map question
Describing specific changes
Describing general changes
Describing locations
Sample answer

You will also be able to learn some new vocabulary that will help you deal with any Task 1 maps question.

In the IELTS writing test, you might be asked to describe a map in task 1. This type of question is becoming increasingly popular- in fact, it was on the exam last weekend here in Vietnam- and in my opinion, the easiest one to score high marks in if you’re prepared.

Many students, books and teachers overlook this type of question, and it is, therefore, a bit of a shock when one comes up. Therefore, if you are prepared, you will probably do better than most of the other students.

Different Kinds of Map Question

There are three main types of map questions:

Describe one map in the present day.
Describe two maps- one in the present and one in the future.
Describe two maps- one in the past and one in the present.

The first kind is very rare, as it only requires you to use the present simple, and no comparisons can be made.

The second kind occasionally comes up and requires you to use present and future tenses. This kind of question is normally about the future development of a town or city. It requires the same vocabulary as the other two.

The third is the most common and will be the main focus of this post.

You will normally be shown two maps, as above and asked to select and report the main features and make comparisons where relevant. You will obviously use both present and past tenses to describe the maps and how the town has developed.

Also, as this is a man-made process, we will use the passive.

Source: Cambridge English Practice Papers.

To describe two maps, I advise my students to follow a four-paragraph structure.

Paragraph 1- Paraphrase Sentence

Paraphrase question using synonyms.

Paragraph 2- Overview

Make two general statements about the map. You should describe the maps generally and write about the most noticeable differences between the two maps. You could ask yourself the following questions to identify general changes. Is the map more or less residential? Is there more or less countryside? Are there more or fewer trees? Were the changes dramatic or negligible? Were there any major infrastructure improvements? How have the buildings and leisure facilities changed?

Paragraph 3- Main Body 1

Three to four sentences about specific changes that have occurred.

Paragraph 4- Main Body 2

Further, three to four sentences about specific changes that have occurred.

You can group information in paragraphs 3 and 4 by time or location, depending on the question asked.

Look at the sample answer below to see how I have used this structure.

How to Describe Specific Changes

The ability to describe change is crucial to answering these questions. The various buildings and features will normally be labelled for you. You need to work on how to write about how they have changed from the past up until the present day.

Tip: You may be asked to describe your hometown in the speaking test . The vocabulary and grammar in this post should come in very useful.

Below I will list various buildings, features, and verbs we could use to describe their change.

Buildings – demolished, knocked down, flattened, replaced, renovated, built, constructed, reconstructed, developed, extended, expanded, relocated, converted and modernized.

The government demolished the industrial estate and developed a sports ground.

They removed the shops and replaced them with a skyscraper.

A port was constructed at the edge of the river.

The factory in the city centre was demolished and relocated to the city’s north.

The old warehouses were replaced with new hotels.

The factory was converted into apartments.

Trees and Forests- cleared, cut down, chopped down, removed, planted.

The forest was cut down and replaced with a shopping centre.

The trees were cleared to make way for houses.

Roads, bridges and railways lines- constructed, built, extended, expanded and removed.

The main road was extended, and a new bridge was built over the river.

Leisure facilities- opened, set up, developed.

A skate park was set up next to the swimming pool.

A park was developed beside the forest.

How to Describe General Changes

As this is an IELTS writing task 1 question, we must write an overview, where we generally talk about the main changes between the two maps.

Below are some examples of general statements we could use to describe change in towns and cities.

Over the period, the area witnessed dramatic changes.
From 1995 to 2005, the city centre saw spectacular developments.
The village changed considerably over the period.
During the 10-year period, the industrial area was totally transformed.
Over the past 20 years, the residential area was totally reconstructed.
Over the period, the old docks were totally redeveloped.
Between 1995 and 2005, the old houses were rebuilt.
The central business district was completely modernised during the period.

Pick two or three of the most noticeable differences in the map and write a general statement for each. This will be your overview paragraph.

The more specific changes should be included in your main body paragraphs.

How to Describe Locations

You will also be expected to describe where things are maps and describe where changes have occurred.

You can use ‘to the left’ and ‘to the right’, but a better way is to use ‘north’, ‘south’, ‘east’ and ‘west’. I normally advise my students to draw the symbols on the question paper if they are not already there.

The forest to the south of the river was cut down.

A golf course was constructed to the north of the airport.

The houses in the southwest of the town were demolished.

The green fields to the city’s northwest were redeveloped as a park.

The airport in the city’s centre was relocated to the northeast of the river.

The school to the southeast was knocked down and a new one was built to the east of the forest.

Finally, you will also be expected to use prepositions of place , e.g. at/in/on/by/beside/to/off/from, to describe where things are.

Dramatic changes took place in the city centre.

To the town’s south is a golf course surrounded by trees.

A new school was built next to the swimming pool.

The old road running from north to south was replaced by a new motorway.

A marina was built on the banks of the river.

Sample Answer

Both maps display an island before and after it was developed for tourism.

The island is approximately 250 metres long, has palm trees dotted around it, is surrounded by ocean and has a beach to the west. Over the period, the island was completely transformed with the addition of a hotel and a pier; however, the eastern part of the island appears to have been left undeveloped.

The most noticeable additions are the hotel rooms. 6 buildings, surrounding some trees, have been built in the west of the island, and 9 buildings have been constructed in the centre of the island. A reception building and a restaurant have been developed between the two accommodation areas.

A pier has also been built on the island’s south coast, allowing yachts access to the resort. Apart from the trees, the beach remains the only natural feature to remain relatively untouched; however, it appears to be used for swimming.

Do you need me to correct your essays and give you feedback on them? Check out our essay correction service .

I hope this lesson has helped you and if you have any questions, please comment below.

About Christopher Pell

My name is Christopher Pell and I'm the Managing Director of IELTS Advantage.

I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

If you need my help with your IELTS preparation, you can send me an email using the contact us page.

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IELTS Map Essay Decoded

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Updated on 13 April, 2023

Mrinal Mandal

Study abroad expert.

We understand you may not love looking at maps, especially in today’s day and age! However, they are unavoidable if you plan to clear the International English Language Testing System ( IELTS ) test. Fret not! IELTS map questions are amongst the easiest in the test. You do not have to analyze any numbers; you only have to compare some maps. The maps show an area or location at different points of time, i.e., present, past, or even future developments. You have to write about the changes within these maps, explaining them in detail.

There are a few steps for writing an IELTS task 1 map essay to help you score high. They include:

Question evaluation
Identifying key aspects
Writing a crisp introduction
Coming up with the overview
Writing the paragraphs with all vital details

The first two steps are important in this scenario. Never underestimate the importance of proper planning before starting your essay. You will understand the reasons after going through the tips below.

Ielts map essay- ideal structure.

First Step- Question Evaluation

Second Step- Identifying the Key Aspects

Download e-books for ielts preparation.

The Introduction:
The Overview:
Writing Para 3

Writing Para 4

Putting it all together, popular study abroad destinations.

The IELTS writing task 1 map essay should have this structure:

Introduction- First Paragraph
Overview- Second Paragraph
Main Feature 1- Third Paragraph
Main Feature 2- Fourth Paragraph

A Sample Question & Tip to Crack the Map Essay

Suppose there is a question which states:

The maps below display the village of Burlington in the years 1950 and 2020.

Summarize the information through selection and reporting of key features, and make comparisons wherever necessary .

First Step- Question Evaluation

The format of the question is unchanged for Academic Task 1. You should first analyze the question carefully. Every question contains the first sentence that describes the map you are viewing. Then there are the instructions for you and the final map or chart.

The second sentence is where you learn what you have to do. In this case, you will have to choose the main features of the maps, report or write about them and compare the main features if required. All tasks revolve around the map’s key features. You need not write about or focus on every little thing. You only have to choose 2-3 central elements, and you will get sufficient writing material.

First, you should begin with the initial map that dates back to 1950. Look at the past and then look at the present (2020) map for identifying changes. Here are some things that you can check out:

What are the timelines - The map shows the Burlington village of 1950 and again in 2020. Hence, it indicates the past and present. You will thus know that you should use the past tense in the essay without using any future tenses.
Main differences - What are the features on the map from 1950 that have completely vanished? What are the new additions or features replacing these features in the 2020 map? Are there any other new additions to the map of 2020?
Similarities - What are the features of both maps which are identical even after all these years? There will always be some features that stay the same.
Direction -related terms- You can consider using words like south , north , west , and east (but obviously) along with north-east , south-east , north-west , and south-west amongst other variations.

You can thus find several features that have vanished like older dispensaries, shops, farmland, and even the church building, which has grown, and the big central square building has turned into a home for seniors.

Many maps have numerous changes and that too of a complex nature. Remember that you will not have time to write about all the changes that you see. Select 2-3 main changes before getting started! Now, suppose that you identify four of the main changes for our essay. These can be the following:

The farmland has vanished, and construction has taken place.
The big central square house has become a home for seniors.
The shops and dispensaries have disappeared.
The church building has expanded.

These features will be the foundation for your IELTS map essay in at least 150 words. You will get only 20 minutes to complete Task 1. Remember that you cannot include all the details. It is possible to talk about important things while staying crisp and concise.

Writing Your Essay

The structure that you will follow, as mentioned, is the following:

Introduction- Para 1
Overview- Para 2
One main feature- Para 3
Another feature- Para 4

For the essay topic that you are doing now, you can write about two features in Para 3 and two in Para 4.

The Introduction:

The introduction will only need a simple paraphrasing of the question, i.e. stating the same premise differently. You can make use of synonyms and also change the structure of the main sentences.

The original question was- The maps below display the village of Burlington in the years 1950 and 2020.

For instance, you can write your introduction in this manner-

These two maps illustrate how the Burlington village, nestled on the foothills of the Enyan Mountains, transformed over 70 years from 1950 to 2020.

And you are done writing your introduction!

The Overview:

The second paragraph will talk about the general transformations that you witness. The concrete details are suitable for the upcoming paras. Just keep it simple without any elaborate words or terms.

A sample overview can be the following-

The village developed rapidly over 70 years, with growing urbanization, and gradually transformed to a predominantly residential and commercial zone from a rural settlement earlier.

Try and keep the overview to a single sentence. See, it is that simple!

Writing Para 3

Now we get down to the actual writing bit since the third and fourth paragraphs are where you write in more detail. The third paragraph should have ample proof of the first two changes that you noticed.

What were the first two changes listed earlier? They are the total disappearance of farmland and construction over it and a home for seniors in place of the big house in the central square.

Here is an example that you can follow-

The drastic change of the village in 2020 is visible from the transformation of rural farmlands into urban housing settlements. Periodic construction saw the development of homes, roads, and other public infrastructure over the same. Community needs also led to the transformation of a large residential property in the central square. It is now a home for senior citizens without kith and kin.

Similarly, you have to recap the third and fourth things that you noticed. These are the following:

Vanishing dispensaries and shops
Expansion of the church building

Here is an illustrative example-

While the village had at least four dispensaries and ten shops earlier, they vanished by 2020. New residential houses stand in place of these establishments, which existed in 1950. The church building still stands at the intersection of the West and North streets in the village. From its original size in 1950, it has been extended by almost two times in 2020, covering the entire south-eastern portion, which was empty land earlier. It is another landmark for the village.

Now that the steps are complete, how will it look like one single essay? Here’s finding out-

Essay:

Well, this sample essay has exceeded the word limit of 150 and lists the main changes without going over the top. It is only a sample, and you will find plenty of other examples online. Remember to follow the points mentioned above and practice as much as you can ahead of appearing for the IELTS test.

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Ielts Task 1 Map

IELTS Task 1 Map

In an IELTS task 1 map you often have to compare a map from the past with one from the present.

This writing task 1 sample map shows you an example of one of these types of question with a model answer.

Organisation: Each Map in Turn

You have several choices of how to organise an IELTS task 1 map such as this.

You could choose the various features in turn, such as the fishing port and market in the past, then note how these have now gone, with the market replaced by apartments.

Or you could describe everything in the first map, then everything in the second map. This is how this sample answer is organised.

Either way, make sure you describe all the key features in the IELTS task 1 map and don't miss any.

Hopefully the tenses to use will be obvious. You need to use past tenses for the first IELTS task 1 map in 1995 and present tenses for the present day one.

IELTS Task 1 Map Sample

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The map below shows the development of the village of Ryemouth between 1995 and present.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Sample Answer

The map shows how a village called Ryemouth has developed over the last twenty-five years. There have been several changes, the most noticeable being the increases in accommodation, the elimination of the fishing industry, and the introduction of sports facilities.

In 1995, to the south of the village where the sea is there was previously a fishing industry, with a fishing port and quite a large fish market as well. Next to this was a small cafe. On the other side of the road running by the sea stood a line of five shops and a hotel, while situated in the north east part of the village was farmland and a park with trees. The main housing of the village was located in the north west around a main road that runs from the coastal road, with twelve houses, four of them encircled by a smaller side-street.

Turning to the present day map, it can be seen that the fishing facilities have all gone, being replaced by four apartments, and the shops have become restaurants. The cafe remains, as does the hotel, albeit with parking facilities which it did not have before. Having been converted into a golf course, the farmland has now gone, while the forest park has been removed to make way for tennis courts. Although the old houses remain, new ones have been built, along with a new road with two new houses beside it.

(240 Words)

This IELTS task 1 map would receive a high score.

The map has a clear overall progression and organisation as it is introduced, the main features are identified, then it clearly compares the first map with the second.

There is a mix of vocabulary , with the right language of location used to say where things were positioned and the language of comparison and contrast used to good effect to show how things differed or remained the same.

There is a good range of accurate complex sentences and structures to ensure a higher score for grammatical range and accuracy.

Some examples of these are:

...the village where the sea is
On the other side of the road running by the sea stood a...
...hotel, while situated in
...it can be seen that
...gone, being replaced by
...albeit with parking facilities which it did not have before
Having been converted
Although the old houses

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More on IELTS Maps:

IELTS Map Practice: Learn and practice the language of location

This IELTS map practice exercise improves your skills in the language of location for maps. Choose the correct word to fit in the gap.

IELTS Map Writing: Using the language of location

This IELTS map writing sample answer is about an island, before and after the construction of some tourist facilities, and it demonstrates language of location.

IELTS Map Writing Task 1 Sample: Describing changes to a town

Sometimes may be asked to describe an IELTS map in task 1 of the IELTS Test. This is a map of Brandfield with two proposed sites for a shopping mall. There is a model answer.

IELTS Map Sample: Organising the map by features / items

In this IELTS map sample for writing task 1 you have to describe the differences presented in a plan of a park.

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How to write ielts task 1 academic ‘map diagrams’.

There are 3 main types of diagrams in Writing Task 1 Academic: a.) Dynamic graphs b.) Static graphs c.) Diagrams (Maps, Processes ) <– we’re talking about maps

In this post I will show you how to write about Map Diagrams.

Already know how to write about Maps in IELTS? Send me your essays for in-depth feedback in 72 hours.

IELTS essay check task 1 correction service feedback

Fortunately, the essay structure for every type of Task 1 is basically the same.

Structure: Task 1 – Academic 4 paragraphs 1.) Summary / Introduction 2.) Overview 3.) Body 1 4.) Body 2

how to write IELTS maps Task 1 ebook pdf mark teacher

What are Map Diagrams?

Map Diagrams can be a few different things.

Map diagrams can be 1 or 2 images of indoor spaces, such as offices:

How to write IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Map Diagram essays with Mark Teacher

They can also be the exterior layout of a building, such as a shopping centre, road network, or even an entire town.

Map diagrams always show changes to a place. These can be finished changes. You can see finished changes in the tasks above and below:

However, IELTS Task 1 Writing map diagrams can be about potential future changes to a place. For example:

Another example of proposed future changes :

In this blog post we will look at how to approach all kinds of IELTS Writing Task 1 map diagrams, paragraph-by-paragraph.

1.) Map Diagram Introduction / Summary

The introduction paragraph in Task 1 only needs to be 1 or 2 sentences. Like all IELTS Writing Task 1 essays, your introduction should present the main purpose of the graph to the reader in your own words. This means paraphrasing the official IELTS diagram description if you can.

Obviously, a diagram is very different from a graph, so we will need quite different language. However, similarly to Dynamic Graphs, map diagrams also feature changes .

You should change your grammar depending on if the changes have already happened , or if they are expected to happen in the future.

Here is a language table to help you make some summaries / introduction paragraphs in your own IELTS Task 1 Writing essays.

The images illustrate + the changes that have been made to the floor plan of an office building between 2005 and the present.
The pair of diagrams depict + the differences between an office floor plan in 2005 and now.

The two diagrams depict + the town centre of Islip now and the suggested – planned – proposed changes.
The images illustrate + Islip town centre as it is now and the proposed / suggested – planned developments for it in the future.

You try! – Write an introduction sentence for this map diagram task. Use the table above to help you.

The plans show the site of an airport now and how it will look after redevelopment next year.

The images show … the layout of an airport now and the proposed changes to it after a development project.
The two diagrams depict … an airport site in the present and the suggest redevelopments to it in the future.

2.) Map Diagram Overview

The purpose of the overview paragraph is to give a short summary of the main features. In Map Diagrams, the main features can include:

New structures / areas
Moved structures / areas
Expanded structures / areas
Reduced or removed structures / areas

There are two approaches you can take to Map Diagram overviews – or you can combine them together. You can describe the main features with adjectives (larger / smaller / more spacious / more developed) or you can generally describe the literal physical changes (number of rooms, names of new areas and structures.

To describe generally I try to avoid giving specific locations (north / east etc.). I save these for Body 1 and Body 2. To generalise, I also give the group names of things and places, such as, ‘new housing’, ‘office equipment’, and ‘new transport facilities’, if I can.

Here are some examples of Map Diagram overviews using the tasks you saw earlier:

Main Features :

New: sofa and coffee table | coffee machine, water cooler
Bigger / Smaller: main room bigger, combined
Moved : armchairs, noticeboard
Removed: small office room on left gone
Other: top left room the same

a. Overall, we can see that the office now features fewer rooms and is more open-plan compared to the past . Some furniture has been rearranged, while some new office equipment and appliances have also been added.

b. Overall, we can see that the updated office plan contains a larger shared area with some new or rearranged furniture , while some other changes to the position of office equipment have been made.

Main Features:

New: dual carriageway | bus station, shopping centre, car park, new housing
Bigger / Smaller: x
Removed: shops on north side of main road
Other: main road > pedestrian zone

a. Overall, we can see that a wide range of new developments are planned for Islip town centre, such as more extensive road networks and new housing projects . The suggested changes also include a pedestrianised area and improved traffic access via a bus station and a car park .

b. Overall, we can see that a considerable transformation has been planned for the town centre, including a new ring road and a pedestrian area , as well as a wide range of new transport facilities and even new housing.

You try! – Write an overview paragraph for this map diagram task. Use the table above to help you. The main features have been highlighted for you.

Main Features:

New: gates +10 | sky train | ATM, car hire, cafe in arrivals, bag drop and shops in departures
Bigger / Smaller: new doors +2 (4 total)
Moved: cafe and check-in in departures
Removed: walkway to gates
Other: security, passport control customs all the same

a. Overall, we can see that … the plans for the airport’s redevelopment include significant expansion in the number of gates, passenger amenities and transport options.

My Maps eBook unlocks all the secrets to writing correct, advanced and high-band overviews. Click here to get this 19-page guide or click the picture.

3.) Body Paragraphs

Next are the Body paragraphs of your Task 1 report. You can write 2 or 3 Body paragraphs.

Body paragraphs describe the main features of the diagram in detail, including their location (either specifically or in relation to other structures or natural areas on the map). You can also write in detail about any old structures that have been replaced or moved.

In terms of grammar, we are never told who has made or will make the changes on the diagram, so Map Diagrams often require the passive voice.

Here is a language and grammar table you can use to write body paragraphs. Again, the grammar changes if you are talking about finished changes or future changes .

Here are the Body 1 and Body 2 paragraphs of the example map diagrams from before, staring with the f inished changes map diagram :

Introduction: The images illustrate the changes that have been made to the floor plan of an office building between 2005 and the present.

Overview: Overall, we can see that the office now features fewer rooms and is more open-plan compared to the past. Some furniture has been rearranged, while some new office equipment and appliances have also been added.

Body 1: (Biggest change) One of the key changes involves the removal of two small rooms on the western and north eastern sides of the office. It appears that the desks, chairs and cabinets have been removed from both small rooms, and now sit in the north eastern corner of the office to create a larger meeting area.

Body 2: (Big change – last paragraph already long enough) As a result, the main room by the entrance has expanded into an open area with a new sofa and table, while the armchairs and noticeboard have been relocated from the eastern to the western side beside the new furniture. A new water cooler and coffee machine seem to service this new area as well.

Body 3: (Exception / Contrast) Lastly, however, the corner office in the north-western corner of the office remains virtually unchanged from any of the rearrangements, remaining in its 2005 layout.

Here is the full example essay of the future changes map diagram:

Introduction: The images illustrate Islip town centre as it is now and the proposed developments for it in the future.

Overview: Overall, we can see that … a considerable transformation has been planned for the town centre, including a new ring road and a pedestrian area, as well as a wide range of new transport facilities and even new housing.

Body 1: Starting with the most obvious development, a new dual carriageway is planned to circle around the northern and southern edges of Islip town centre. This is seemingly intended to replace the main road running through the town centre, which in turn is set to be turned into a pedestrianised area.

Body 2: Focusing more on the city centre itself, a raft of new facilities are intended. While the current row of shops will remain, a new bus station, shopping centre and car park are going to be built on the north side of the old main road. In addition, new housing will also be built on the eastern side of town, with another housing project planned beside the park in the southeastern part of town.

You try! – Write the body paragraphs for this map diagram task. Use the examples above to help you.

New: gates +10 | sky train | ATM, car hire, cafe in arrivals, bag drop and shops in departures
Bigger / Smaller: new doors +2 (4 total)
Moved : cafe and check-in in departures
Removed: walkway to gates
Other: security, passport control customs all the same

Introduction: The images show the layout of an airport now and the proposed changes to it after a development project.

Overview: Overall, we can see that after its development, the airport will host considerably more gates, as well as more food and travel amenities for both arriving and departing passengers.

Body 1: Beginning with the most notable proposal, the number of gates in the airport is set to receive a substantial increase, from 8 at present, to 18 after renovations are completed. To seemingly accommodate an expected increase in passengers, the walkway to the gates will be replaced by a new skytrain, and the amount of doors at the entrance will be doubled from 2 to 4 across departures and arrivals.

Body 2: In addition, before security, customs and passport control, which will remain in the same place, the amount of facilities will increase significantly. This will include a new cafe in arrivals, as well as an ATM and a care hire kiosk. A bag drop is also set to be added at departures, with new shops planned for departing passengers after they have gone through security and passport control.

There you go! A high-band approach, several examples and a reliable framework for you to use in your own IELTS Writing test.

Questions? Write them in a comments below.

Want to show me what you’ve learnt from this guide? Send me your IELTS Writing Task 1 Essays for detailed feedback:

If you still want more guidance and advice about IELTS Maps, I highly recommend my IELTS Maps eBook. It’s full of high-band grammar and vocabulary structures that you can’t find on my website, custom-made maps to help you tackle the most common types of maps in IELTS and much more! Click here or the picture to see more about this download PDF.

<– Back to Task 1 Academic example essays and lessons.

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Sample Writing: Describe a Map

Posted by David S. Wills | Mar 9, 2017 | Model Essays | 1

It’s not often that you are asked to describe a map in the IELTS Writing Task 1, but it can happen. When it does, students often panic. It is an unfamiliar task for most IELTS candidates. You don’t often see it in the past papers or practice books.

However, it’s not actually that difficult, requires almost no specialist language, and can be practiced in a very short time.

Describing a map is actually pretty easy. You only really need to know the most basic geographic features:

Then you really must know the directions :

and perhaps some combination of them, such as “north-east” or “south-west,” too.

Beyond that, you are simply describing what you see.

Example question

The two maps below show an island, before and after the construction of some tourist facilities. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Here is my first sample answer:

The illustration shows two images of the same island, before and after construction has taken place to build a tourist infrastructure. Prior to the construction of tourist facilities, the island was surrounded by sea on all sides, and had clusters of trees in the east and west. There was also a beach on the far west of the island. There were no buildings, and lots of open space across the land. Following construction work, the island looks very different. There are now many buildings throughout the west and central parts of the island, as well as a road and some paths leading to the accommodations. The accommodation buildings are distributed to the east and west of the reception, positioned in circle formations. There is a reception building right in the centre and a restaurant on the northern shore. To the south, there is a pier where boats can dock, and this is connected by road to the reception.

And here is another sample answer:

There are two maps showing the development of an island. The first map shows the island prior to its development, and the second shows the new tourist facilities that have been installed. Before the construction of the new tourist infrastructure, the island had no buildings. There were only trees and empty spaces. The island is surrounded on all sides by sea, and there was a beach on the far western shore. There have been various changes to the island, starting with the pier on the southern coast, which allows tourists to reach the island by boat. From there, they can follow a vehicle track to the reception, in the center of the island. Located slightly to the north of the reception is a restaurant, which sits on the northern coast. These are bordered on both sides by accommodation, in the form of huts. The huts are laid out in circular patterns and connected to the reception and restaurant by footpath. There is also a footpath now leading to the beach, which is suitable for swimming.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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The map question does not show any north and south directions. So, we cannot be sure which direction is north, east, west, south. Maybe we need to use top, bottom, left, right, etc. of the map.

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IELTS Map: Model Answer

Below is an IELTS map model answer which is estimated at band score 9. This is a comparison of three maps in different time periods for the academic writing task 1. If you wish to do practice exercises for grammar for the maps below, before you read this model, please follow the link: IELTS Map Comparison Exercise .

Source: Map above not produced by IELTS Liz.

Model Writing Task 1: Map Comparison

The maps illustrate how Meadowside village and Fonton, which is a neighbouring town, have developed over three different time periods (1962, 1985 and the present).

Overall, Meadowside village increased in size and has become Meadowside Suburb as it merged together with Fonton. Furthermore, there have been significant changes in infrastructure, housing and facilities over the period given.

In 1962, both Meadowside and Fonton were completely separate with no roads or rail connecting them. While Fonton had a railway line running through it to the north, Meadowside, located to the west of Fonton, only had a small road from the west.

By 1985, there was a considerable growth in the size of Meadowside village and Fonton. The small road in Meadowside village had been converted into a main road and was also extended to the east to connect with Fonton. Meadowside, moreover, had also developed a housing estate in the west, a leisure complex and a supermarket in the south.

Currently, both Meadowside, which is now a suburb, and Fonton are joined. The railway line, which runs through Fonton, has been extended to the west where a train station has been built. To the north of the station, a hotel has been constructed and opposite the station, to the south, there is now a business park.

…………………

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The map illustrates Meadowside village and Fonton and how they have developed over the years 1962, 1985 and presently.

Overall, Meadowside village has become bigger and is now Meadowside suburb as it has merged with Fonton. There are new roads connecting the two villages and new buildings have been built.

In 1962, Meadowside village and Fonton lie on either side not connected by road or rail. But it is visible that Fonton had a rail running through it from the north to the east. On the other hand, Meadowside village had a small road passing through it; it started in the north and moved to the west.

As we move to 1985, we can see that Meadowside village has been expanded and now facilitates a housing estate along with a leisure complex beside it. Across the road that runs through the village which was previously only a small road and is now a main road, we are able to notice the presence of a superstore on the south of the residential area which first appeared in 1985. It is noticeable that there is a road that passes through the village and Fonton from the west to east.

In terms of now, Meadowside is now a suburb. A new rail has emerged towards the east starting from a station located in the center of the two places. Just above the station is where the hotel is situated. Below the station, we can see the business park as well.

Hi can you please correct my mistakes and let me know if there is anything I can do to make this better. And what is a score that I can expect?

The maps presents the development of the urbanization in Meodowside village and the nearest located town Fonton, from year 1962. Meodowside and Fonton started far apart from eachother, but have gradually been structured over time into a bigger town with linking roads, trainroad tracks, and new-built housing.

In 1962 Meodowside village was situated singularly, without any connection to Fonton. The small village had a smaller road passing through. Fonton had only a trainway track going through town.

Under the period up until 1985, there was a significant change. Looking at the middle map, Meodowside has developed to a larger village and buildings as the housing estate and a superstore were constructed in additional. The small road was built wider and another linking road was shaped between the town and village.

After the year 1985, the infrastructure changed massively. A hotel with a nearby trainstation and a business park have been reinforced. Comparing now to 1962 shows a big difference and total connection creating a town out of the the prior village and town.

172 words 32 minutes

The map illustrates the information about the development of Meadowside and Fonton over three periods of time. Overall, it can be seen from the map that there was no development of Meadowside and Fonton in 1962. Meanwhile, in the present, there are so many facilities, including housing estate, superstore, hotel, train station and business park.

Initially, in 1962, there was no development in the landscape in the middle of area. There is only a road ran through Meadowside village and a railway in Fonton as well. Moreover, in 1985, a housing estate, superstore and leisure complex were built in Meadowside village. The road was upgraded to concrete road and connected to Fonton. Additionally, Fonton area was bigger than the 1962.

In the present, a hotel, train station and business park is built between Meadowside suburbs and Fonton. In addition, train station is connected to Fonton. Meadowside suburbs and Fonton area have merged into one major landscape.

Three maps are shown, depicting the composition of Meadowside village and the neighbouring town of Fonton in 1962, 1985, and in the present.

Overall, one can retrace the development and growth of the two communities with first, the building of a bigger and connecting road through Meadowside village into an enlarged Fonton and second, the incorporation into one continuously populated area with new shared infrastructures.

By 1985, the previously smaller road through Meadowside village had been rebuilt into a larger road, including a new section dividing from its curved path, leading straight into the town of Fonton. Further infrastructural changes have only been made after 1985. Nowadays, a novel railway terminus is situated in the area between the two communities, that provides access to the Fonton railway.

In terms of other buildings, both communities had grown considerably by 1985, with the map illustrating a housing estate, leisure complex and superstore located within Meadowside village. Since then, this housing estate has increased further, and a hotel and business park have been built next to the new station, centered in between the once two communities. connecting the formerly beforehand separate communities.

broo this is a 9.5 score band

i love u lizz

The maps depict both Meadowside village and Fonton town in their present and past appearances, dating back to 1985 and 1962.

Overall, it can be clearly seen that not only have the town and village been developed, they are also connected to each other among the considered periods. Similarly, a number of infrastructures have been developed.

In 1962, Fonton and Meadowside were ordinary towns and villages with no interconnection, but they had their own roots. In Meadowside village, there was a road expanding to the south-west of the village and north, and Fonton had a rail road running in the middle of the town. By the year 1985, for the first time, the village and the town had joined each other with the construction of a road. Furthermore, in Meadowside Village, there had been built a supermarket, a housing state, and a leisure complex to the southern part, to the western part, and to the northern part, respectively.

By present, both Meadowside village and Fonton town have been totally connected. There is a station right in the middle of town, a hotel to the north, and a business park to the south. And there is a noticeable extension of the railway to the middle of the town. Furthermore, the name of the village has been changed to Meadowside Suburs.

The maps show the development projects taking place in both Meadowside Village and Fonton, which is a neighboring town, from 1962 to the present era. Overall, there were significant changes in both towns, Meadowside village were extended in size and has become a Surber area. There is some infrastructure, a housing estate, and a leisure complex. Meadowside Village is connected by a main road to the Fonton. In 1992, both Meadowside Village and Fonton Town were completely separated. There is a railway track in Fonton Town, which runs through its North side, and a road in Meadowside Village which runs from its west side. In 1985, some changes were made in Meadowside Village. An estate housing and a complex leisure wade made on its North side and a superstore at its south side. Moreover, Meadowside Village was extended by a main road, which connect it to Fonton Town directly. At that present time, another railway track has been made, which comes from the Western side of Fonton Town. There is also a station made there. A business park has been constructed on the opposite side of the railway station. Besides this, a hotel has been constructed here. Shortly, it can be said that these two towns are completely merged.

The maps illustrate the developments that took place in the Meadowside village and its neighbouring town, Fonton since 1962. There are 3 maps and they show the same region across 3 different dates (1962, 1985, and current).

Overall, initially Fonton Town appears considerably larger than Meadowside village but as time passed, the meadowside village grew in size. It can be observed that Meadowside village had more changes compared to Fonton town. Currently, Meadowside village and Fonton Town are interlinked with many buildings and roads.

In 1962, Meadowside village had only one road passing through it which ran from the west to north while Fonton had a railway line from north to the east. The two did not have any interlinks between them for commute. By 1985 however, Meadowside village grew rapidly, with the road being expanded and a new section of road had been laid out to reach Fonton Town. The village had a housing estate, leisure complex, and a super-store.

Currently, Meadowside Village has transformed into Meadowside Suburbs and a new railway line has been established in Fonton Town which ends in a station situated nearly in the centre of the two localities. The Hotel lies to the north of the station compared to the business park being located in the south. The business park can be accessed from the road linking Meadowside suburbs and Fonton Town.

The maps provide information about two neighbouring settlements, Meadowside(a village) and Fonton(a town), which have undergone development in the space of 60years. Overall, there has been development in the infrastructure, housing and transport systems in both Meadowside and Fonton, and the two areas have increased in size over the years.

Notably, there was a huge difference in both the size of Meadowside and its infrastructures between 1962 to 1985 as housing estate, leisure complex and super store were all constructed in 1985 as opposed to the lack of these facilities in 1962 in the village. In the same period, Fonton town was developed with increased size and construction of road passing from the southeast to the southwest, connecting Meadowside and Fonton together.

At the moment, both Meadowside and Fonton has been transformed with amenities such as station, business park and a hotel which serve both the suburb and the town.

Impressively, while Meadowside was merely a village up till 1985, it is now a suburb area. Also, Fonton town and Meadowside are now connected together as their sizes have increased to joining each other.

you need to describe the map. stating the location of the buildings developed using the map axis will be better..

Hi Liz, I hope you are doing great on your job. I just want to know that if you have released any updated article for IELTS writing recently as I believe that structure of IELTS writing is modernized by the changes of time. Thank you so much in advance for your response.

The writing test hasn’t changed. The format is the same as it always was. The marking is the same. The techniques are the same. Nothing has changed.

Thank you for this update

You’re welcome 🙂

The map illustrate the change that foncton and meadowside village went through in three time periods (1962, 1985 and the present).

Overall, the two neighbors used to be separate with no road or railway connection whatsoever, the two entities managed to grow over time, first to be linked with a road and merged at the end with new different infrastructure facilities.

in 1962, Meadowside village had only one small road coming from the west of the village and heading north. Meanwhile, foncton had a railway coming from the north, passing through the city and going west.

in 1985, the only road in Meadowise village got increased with an extention linking to it’s neighboring village and going east.Furthermore, a housing estate and a leisure complex were builled north of the West-East road, and a superstore was constructed on the south side of the that road.

Currently, Meadowside village name changed to Meadowside suburbs as it merged with foncton, a new business park was constructed south to the East-west road, a new train station was build at the center of the merging neighbors with a new railroad linked to the old one, north of it, a hotel was build.

The maps illustrate the progress occurred in Meadowside village and its neighbor, Fonton in three different time periods.

Overall, there were significant changes clearly seen in these two areas, one of which is their merging at present.

In detail, both Meadowside and Fonton were separated in 1962. The foremost was still a small village with steep road that passed from north to west. The latter, on the other hand was larger in size with rail ran through north to east.

Meanwhile, in 1985 both towns increased their land areas. There were leisure complex, superstore and housing built in Meadowside. Moreover, the steep road was converted into wider roads, one of which was extended to Fonton.

At present, Meadowside village which is now a suburb is combined with Fonton. Hotel and station has been established in the eastern side with newly built business park adjacent to the main road connected to Fonton. Alternatively, Fonton formed additional railway across west nearby suburb.

This map illustrates how Meadowside village and Fonton , which is neighbour town, have developed over three different times (1982, 1985 and now). Now Meadowside village is grown much more than 1982, it is merge with Fonton and grown significate infrastructure, 1962, this two village were completely separated. There where no rail and Road transportation, they didn’t have any kind of communication. They was only road from west. 1985, there was growth in Meadowside village, there was Leisure Complex, Housing Estate in west. Super Store in south. Small road converted to main road and also extended to Fonton has also developed. Now, they are now connected through subways and fonton is now joined .They are more developed. Railways are built in west and run in fonton where the station are built. To north side of the station, a hotel is construction and opposite the station . There is the business park built in south.

Hi Liz ! Thank you so much for sharing with us such a well-explained essay. I found your website veru useful. I will take IELTS exam in the coming month and I will inform my score with you.

Sincerely, Anvar

The way you explain is extremely beautiful like you. And apologies if i am crossing my limit but your smile could make anyone’s day. Thank you for providing all the information regarding task 1 and 2. Keep smiling.

That’s a lovely comment. Thank you. I’m glad my lessons are useful 🙂

Are you briliant teacher

you are really very good person and Don’t forget keep always smiling 😊

The map illustrates the meadowside village and Fonton which are the neighbouring towns, have developed over the different time periods from 1962, 1985 and the present era.

Overall, the Meadowside village developed their infrastructure which includes transportation, buildings, hotels etc and connected with the Fonton town.

In 1962, both the villages Fonton and Meadowside were not developed as there was no means of transportation between these two places. While Fonton had a railway line running from the north to eastern side of the village. Whereas Meadowside had a small road running from the northern part to western side of the village.

In 1985, there has been considerable changes in both the villages, especially in Meadowside village. The small road which was running from north towards the western part of the region had been converted into a highway road and the southern part of this road were merged with another road line which connects to Fonton village. Since then travelling between two villages became more convenient. Moreove in Meadowside village three important landmarks were added to their infrastructure, the Leisure complex in the western part, Housing estate in the eastern side and Super store at the southern area of the village.

At present both the villages were developed by improving the mode of transportation, as new connection railway lines were constructed from the western part of Fonton towards the centre location between two villages. To enhance the tourist economy of this area, they built a hotel behind the railway station and the business park on the opposite side of the station towards the south.

The map compares the development of Meadowside Village and its neighboring town Fonton throughout three periodical times (1962, 1985, and present time). Overall, the size area of the village and the town have increased and both areas become one union with Meadownside become a suburb area under Fonton administration. There are also developments in infrastructures such as roads, railways, housing, and business center. In initial year, Meadowside was only a small village with a small road crossing through the village. Located in the east of the village, there was Fonton, a neighboring town with railway running through it. However, there was no road that is channeling both areas. In 1985, the size of both areas increased. The big road was built in this year, being the hub between the village and the town. There were also a development in infrastructure, as housing estate, leisure complex, and superstore were built in Meadowside village. In present time, these two areas eventually merge as one, results in Meadowside became a suburb under Fonton town. They also built some facilities in area between Fonton town and the suburbs, such as hotel and business park. The railway line which once was only running through Fonton now extends to Meadowside as a new station was built around there.

The maps indicate the developments of a village called Meadowside and of a near town called Fonton, over a period started in 1962.

Overall, it can be seen that over the period in question the village and the town were expanded with the addition of a motorway and some facilities. Nowadays, Fonton and Meadowside are connected to each other.

In 1962 the village covered a small area and was crossed by a small street. In the following thirteen years it was improved, with the additions of a leisure complex, a housing estate and a super-store. Also Fonton was expanded and the two sites, in 1985, were connected with a motorway, which crossed both of them, from west to east.

Now, Meadowside and Fonton share only one area. To the west, there are Meadowside suburbs and to the east there is Fonton. The most noticeable additions are the hotel which is collocated between them in the north of the area, the station, built along the motorway and the business park.

Keep up the good job ✊Your explanation is liked me 😉

The rendered map illustrates the information about the improvments in town namely frenton in 32 years between 1990 to 2012.

Overall, it can be clearly seen from the map that there were tremendous changes after three decades in frenton. Se buldings had been improved. At the outset , school and library were only buildings which stay unchanged and in west side of high street . Trees were cut down to set up a techpark in left bottom side of town, further more , there was a bank beside the school was converted to restaurant . Hospital in the centre had been axpanded . Proceeding further , bottom playing feild with trees was demolished in order to make blocks of flates , new flats also opened alongside high street . Houses were changed to flats. There were cafe and park in east side of town which were improved into hotel and golf course . Theatre and shops were modernized in cimema as well as supermarket in last year

Hey Liz, i just want to know that can we write things in brackets as you have done in introduction, is it accepted in ielts.

Yes, of course. It’s 100% fine and in fact very useful for Writing Task 1. However, don’t overuse them. You need to vary the way you present data. They are mainly useful for line graphs, bar charts, tables and pie charts.

The map shows the different development for three years (1962,1985 and currently) in Meadowside village and Foton, a neighbouring town.

In general, the small road was replaced by big two main roads. One of them running through the Meadoside village and the other crossing the south-east of Foton. The two states have been together in the present and the size of the place was increased. There are more buildings were constructed during the three years.

In 1962, the village was spirited from the other. Also, there were no buildings and connecting the main road between them. The size of tow places was small. However, Foton was bigger than the village.

In 1985, Meadowside village constructed by lot of buildings such as ( i can’t see the names) On the other hand, Foton remains the same thing without any buildings except the size of the place which has been increased during the period.

In the present, the two places become bigger together and the have been untied by a big road accessing the place from the southeast to the southwest. And the other one from the north ending with the previous road. Between the main roads in. northeast there has been built a hotel and a station. So the number of entertainment buildings has been increased.

Hi, Liz, Hope you are safe. I have a doubt about your writing task 1 practise charts.

Which tense to use for the map “an island before and after the construction of some tourist facilities”?

It would depend on the fixed date. If the before date is in the past, you use past tense. If the after date is in our current past, you use past tense. However, if it is in our future, you use the future forms. English grammar rules apply as normal to IELTS.

Thank you, Liz, but there are no dates in the question only before and after. That’s why I’m confused.

Where did you find this question? Which IELTS Cambridge book did you find it in?

Pardon, the section’s name is ” IELTS CHARTS FOR PRACTICE”.

I know the one. You use past tense for “before” and present tense of “after”.

Thank you so much, Liz. Thank you for your valuable time.

Thanks Liz 😍💜

Its clear now Liz . Thankyou so much for quick response and help.

I wanna ask how is this task 1 estimated at band score 9 as it has 200+ words. I read in one of your reply that band score 9 has words between 170 and 190.

Can you please elaborate?

Don’t confuse advice with rules. There is no upper limit for words. However, you should aim for between 160 and 190 words (more or less). Writing more might lead you to add more detail and also increase your chances of making more language errors. You don’t get a particular band score because you have written a particular number of words. As I am fully trained and also a native English speaker, I can get away with reaching slightly over 200, but even so, most of my model answers fall just under 190 words.

Liz thank you so much 😊

Thanks you so much Liz mam ❤️❤️

Dear Liz I heard that there is a new rule of British Council that there should write a conclusion in Writing part 1? Is it true?

No. Writing task 1 is a report and you will see on the band score descriptors published by IELTS that the examiner is looking for an overview. Some people write a conclusion which is actually an overview – that is fine. It is about content and functionality. A conclusion traidtionally contains your opinions summarised – task 1 cannot contain opinions. A conclusion traditionally restates main points – task 1 cannot have repeated information. An overview is the one and only paragraph containing the key features of the task – it can be put after the introduction or at the end – some people put it at the end and call it an conclusion. That is the reason you are confused.

@Liz, which one is the best and good for achieving the IELTS band score. 1. Introduction > Overview > Paragraph 1 > Paragraph 2. 2. Introduction with overview > Paragraph 1 > PParagraph 2 > Conclusion.

I am really so confused between above them. Please share your opinion.

See this page to learn: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-1-lessons-and-tips/ . Use everything I have written to train yourself. That is the purpose of this site 🙂 The answer is there for you to find 🙂

Is it a must to write a conclusion in Task 1? Many people say, that you lose marks if there is no conclusion paragraph

You are immediately penalised if you do not write a conclusion in task 2. You are also immediately penalised if you do not write an overview in task 1.

I have heard that there should be no conclusion or overview in diagrams of writing task 1

That is completely untrue. ALL writing task 1, for the academic paper, MUST have an Overview.

Liz is considered by me to be perfect teacher for all type of information regarding ielts. Thanks for giving ur precious time to us.🙏🙏

Hi Liz,I just wanna know if it is a band 9 sample ?!

And as i realize from this sample , each paragraph explains about only the related map.I want to know whether we need to compare all the three maps with each other or not.

In writing task 1, you compare when necessary – it is not necessary to compare all things at all times. You task is to write a report which is about reporting features – comparison often only comes in the overview. For a diagram, it sometimes doesn’t come at all. For some bar charts (not all) it is the main feature of the report. Each task type is different.

Hello Mam…some IELTS coaching institutes say that we should write overall in task 1 academci at last instead of after introduction because it also also like a conclusion and we write conclusion always at last…is it okay with this?

There are no fixed rules about this in IELTS. You can choose the position of the overview. However, remember that this is not an essay – it is a report.

This task contain much more words than 150 …i think we are suppose to write upto Maximum 180 word… .

Your task is to write over 150 words. A high band score task 1 will usually have between 170 and 190 words. On the whole, it is best to avoid 200 words plus in order to reduce the density of errors and show the ability to select information.

Dear Liz can we write “Meadowside village has been increased in size” But you have written “Meadowside village increased i size” we can still see that the village has increased.But why didn’t you write it in present perfect passive.Please clarify

Meadowside village increased in size” is correct. You would not choose a passive voice for that statement.

I just watched your Map video Liz, in that you told that we should use the key ( Housing area), (town center) to change into small letters but in this model band 9 sample response it isn’t changed into small letters (meadows and fonton). Pls kindly clarify my doubt. Thanks to YOU

You need to listen much more carefully to my video lessons. I did not say you remove ALL CAPITAL LETTERS. I said you must adapt the headings or labels to make them grammatically correct when you write them in a sentence. The word “Tennis” is usually given with a capital letter in a bar chart, but we do not use a capital letter with that word in an English sentence. The word “Food” might have a capital letter in a graph, but we don’t use it with a capital letter in an English sentence. You need to look at your map or chart and decide which headings must have the capital letter changed to make it grammatically correct in a sentence. Do you understand now?

Hotel has been constructed or hotel has constructed . What is duffernce between both sentences. Is it same meaning? Plz help me 🙏

The first is passive voice. You need to learn when to use it and when to use active voice.

The difference is bellow: someone has constructed the hotel the hotel has been constructed by someone

Writing task 1 I do not feel like writing properl.So learn me

This website is for people learning IELTS skills for a high score. It is not for people struggling with English. If your English level is not strong, you will need to improve your English before you think about IELTS.

Hlw, in this task there are more than 4 paragraphs but in your video you told that there will be 4 paragraphs .. is it fine to write more paragraphs?? I am so confused now

The most common is 4. There is no fixed rule about the number of paragraphs for IELTS writing – only advice. It also depends on the task you are given and the information in the map or graph.

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Sample (Maps), Band 9, Written by Dave Lang, Modified by Mohsen Keshmiri

The maps below show Pebbleton 20 years ago and today.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The two maps compare the town of Pebbleton 20 years in the past and in the present day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town has become more residential and offers more access for pedestrians.

The most noteworthy changes to the town relate to the expansion of housing. On the northern end of the narrow peninsula, adjacent to a new community centre, there are now additional houses and the old fort has been replaced with a children’s playground, though the lighthouse has remained unchanged. South of the community centre are new tennis courts that link with a footpath as well as Lighthouse Lane, and Footbridge that connects with the school along Coast Road on the other side of a small river.

The final change is that a former film studio on the southwestern tip of the peninsula is presently a block of flats. The areas that have remained the same are the main roads, a playing field on the southern shore alongside Old Fort Road, and most of the wooded space around the town.

1. The two maps compare the town of Pebbleton 20 years in the past and in the present day. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town has become more residential and offers more access for pedestrians.

Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a general over for the map. Include the major changes and group them generally.

1. The most noteworthy changes to the town relate to the expansion of housing. 2. On the northern end of the peninsula, there are now additional houses and the old fort has been replaced with a children’s playground, adjacent to a new community centre, though the lighthouse has remained unchanged. 3. South of the community centre are new tennis courts that link with a footpath as well as Lighthouse Lane, and Footbridge that connects with the school along Coast Road on the other side of a small river.

Begin to describe the changes.
Be sure to compare as much as possible.
Link together lots of locations on the map.

1. The final change is that a former film studio on the southwestern tip of the peninsula is presently a block of flats. 2. The areas that have remained the same are the main roads, a playing field on the southern shore alongside Old Fort Road, and most of the wooded space around the town.

Switch to another part of the map.
Don’t include any opinion and don’t forget any areas.

One thought on “ IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic Sample (Maps), Band 9, Written by Dave Lang, Modified by Mohsen Keshmiri ”

Although I’m into podcast , your analysis was wonderful ! : )))

Interesting👏👏

Paradise Island Map – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Answers

Updated On Nov 24, 2023

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Paradise Island Map – IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Answers

IELTS Writing Prediction Questions for 2024

In this article, you will find the Paradise Island Map sample answers.

IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to produce a summary of at least 150 words regarding some visual information, typically provided in the form of a graph or chart. You must identify the key characteristics, describe them, and make comparisons in the provided data.

To learn how to approach this task, check out IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Tips, Strategies and Criteria .

Check out the video guide on how to write Map Diagram Writing Task 1 answer!

Maps or diagrams are a description task that will come across in the IELTS. For this question type, you must describe in brief a presented map or diagram. To do so, begin by analyzing the question and identifying the main features of the diagram. Draft and introduction, followed by an overview of the main characteristics of the image. Then you may finally add the essential details.

Maps are one of the most important types of questions in Writing Task 1 for Academic IELTS. So, given below is a task with a sample answer. Keep practising and prepare yourself for a good score.

Report Plan

Paraphrase: show>compare; before and after construction of some tourist facilities >before and after developments carried out for tourism purposes

Overview: The maps compare a small island before and after the developments carried out for tourism purposes.

Paragraph 2: (1) Talk about the overall information. Explain briefly.

Paragraph 3: (1) Compare the before and after scenarios. Give explanation.

Paragraph 4: (1) Compare the before and after scenarios. Give explanation.

Sample Answer 1

The maps compare a small island before and after the developments carried out for tourism purposes.

Overall , it is clear that accommodation and other facilities for tourists were built and that a pier was constructed to permit access to the island by boat.

The island was originally undeveloped entirely. Plenty of trees occupied the northern and southern parts. In the central part of the island, two separate accommodation areas were built, consisting of simple huts arranged around a circular footpath. A reception area and restaurant were located in the centre of these two areas. Another pathway was constructed, leading to the beach on the western edge of the island and an area for tourists to swim.

Access to the island was made possible by constructing a pier for tourists to land safely by boat. A vehicle track then connected the pier with the reception area and covered a short distance path to the restaurant.

Sample Answer 2

The given map is illustrating changes on an island post the construction of tourist facilities. Before this altered scenario, the island seemed to be a deserted one with no significant tourist facility. However, after the renovation, plenty of tourist amenities were made available, including roads, reception on the island, a variety of accommodations, a restaurant, pier, and more to make the island a tourist-friendly space.

The first map is showing emptiness on the island, except for a few trees. However, the second one is displaying all of the changes post construction. A pier could be seen that is constructed for boats. From there, a vehicle track can be spotted , which leads to the reception area and the restaurant. The vehicle track seemingly ends near the restaurant. And then, there is a footpath that leads tourists to the accommodation areas and then to the beach. The residential areas are situated on both sides of the reception with connecting footpaths.

Towards the left side of the reception, a footpath is used to connect the residential area to the beach. Swimming facility is available with ease. It is worth the notice that no woodcutting was done as trees can be seen in both the maps.

To summarise , the map states that a deserted island was turned into a convenient tourist spot for the amusement and recreation of people without harming nature.

Band 9 Sample Report

The two maps provided intend to showcase the numerous structural alterations made on a barren island. The construction of said facilities is undertaken to promote tourism.

The outline of the island’s initial framework depicts the deserted surroundings with a few scattered groups of trees. However, the depiction of the island following the remodelling portrays all the measures taken to enable touristry. These include the construction of a pier to ferry individuals over to the island by water transport and the establishment of roadways so that tourists can reach the reception on automobiles. The living quarters built on either side of the island are accessible only via footpaths.

Furthermore, a restaurant is established on the edge of the island overlooking the sea, which is also reachable by motor vehicles. The beach which was already present is upgraded for swimming activities.

To sum up, the task of reconstructing the island for tourism was accomplished successfully. Another commendable observation, is in the midst of the renovation process, the natural surroundings, which include the plant life of the isle, were not harmed.

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Nafia Zuhana is an experienced content writer and IELTS Trainer. Currently, she is guiding students who are appearing for IELTS General and Academic exams through ieltsmaterial.com. With an 8.5 score herself, she trains and provides test takers with strategies, tips, and nuances on how to crack the IELTS Exam. She holds a degree in Master of Arts – Creative Writing, Oxford Brookes University, UK. She has worked with The Hindu for over a year as an English language trainer.

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Post your Comments

11 comments.

Dinara-burabay

Posted on Sep 4, 2023

Could you evaluate my essay Process The diagram illustrates the basic principles of producing cocoa powder. There are 11 main stages in the process, from initial producing cocoa pods 5-10 years to eventual adding it to drinks, cakes, biscuits. Once cocoa pods have been grown for 5-10 years on the trees and then they contain 20-50 beans, they are harvested. After harvesting cocoa pods, the fruit is opened. As soon as fruit has been opened, fruit is fermented several weeks. Subsequently, cocoa pods are dried below the Sun for 1 week. At the 7th stage of the process, cocoa pods are sorted to remove bad ones and then packed in sacks. During the next step, packing cocoa pods are delivered to the factories by ship. Before purchasing to the public, the cocoa pods are cleaned, grounded, roasted and blended carefully. As soon as have been cleaned, grounded, roasted, blended, the cocoa powder is used to the manufacture of chocolate biscuits, drinks, cakes and other necessities. 156 words.

ria mahajan

Posted on Sep 5, 2023

Band -5 Key features which are selected are not adequately covered. The recounting of detail is mainly mechanical. There is a minimum data to support the description.There is a limited use of cohesive devices with some inaccuracy.The range of structures is limited and rather repetitive.

For further detail evaluation . You can avail a Free trial class Find the link below:

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Posted on May 21, 2022

PLEASE EVALUATE THIS TASK 1 The charts below give information about the diet and general health of two groups of students.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The pie chart exhibits a comparison amidst two groups of pupils related to their nutrition pattern and overall health. In general it is quite obvious that half of the total food consumed in Group B students is taken over by food with a high calorie value that is high fat content. Whereas, it is merely over one fourth of the overall meal in Group A.

Furthermore, the percentage of vegetables and fruits i.e food of high nutritive value shares equal distribution of 5% amongst Group B students. In contrast, the ratio of greens and fruitage eaten by Group A is far much greater than mentee’s in Group B. While, the proportion of cereals and fish devoured are just alike in both the groups.

Consequently, there is a significant decline of their presence in classroom, followed by a remarkable number of obese learners and over double the count of diseased ones amongst them in comparison to just 5% from Group A, in addition.

Posted on May 23, 2022

Band Score: 5 The word count is more than the limit of 150 – 175 words Use articles and prepositions correctly Use punctuation wherever necessary

Posted on Apr 8, 2022

The maps show how a virgin island in 1990 has developed into a tourist resort now. Generally, within around 30 years, the island which seemed an unpromising place for holiday has turned to a tourist destination.

In 1990, the island was totally empty of any buildings and comfortable facilities, whereas currently it is actually hard to find any idle land. In fact, only the general shape of island and its beach has remained the same.

At the present time, there is a prominent building to host the guests in the center of the island, which is directly accessible from the pier at the south coast. This reception is also connected to a restaurant in the north edge, a suite in the west and a swimming pool in the east side joining to other accommodations in the northeast and a café. Other noticeable changes that have taken place are presence of boats and ships in south harbor and a swimming spot in the north side of the beach.

Posted on Feb 10, 2022

The two maps illustrates how an island changes after building tourist facilities.

Overall, it can be seen that the island went through a lot of changes. New bulidings to accomodate visitors have been built while conserving the nature of the island.

The first map shows how barren the island was. The only visible things are trees on the eastern part and western part of the island and a beach. However, after constructing tourist attractions on the island, the island became much more diverse and attractive. A pier was built on the southern part of the island for boats that carry tourists to come through. Furthermore, swimming is now feasible unlike the past.

The second map also shows how the accomodations are built. They are built in a circular formation, one on the western side and the other on the eastern side. Moreover, the accomodations on the western side are surrounding the trees. In between the accomodations is the place where tourists go for reception. If one goes north from the reception, he or she will be able to reach the restaurant. Furthermore, it can be confirmed that even after renovation, the far eastern part of the island has been largely untouched, albeit a slight clearing of trees.

Posted on Feb 11, 2022

Band score: 5

The minimum word count is 160. Though the upper limit is not specified, it is a good practice, not to exceed 170. Concentrate on grammatical numbers, prepositions, Take care of spellings.

Anu Mohanty

Posted on Dec 29, 2021

Here is my report. Thank you in advance. The maps provide a comparison of the state of an island before and after the erection of some visitor facilities. Overall, the island has changed considerably with the introduction of tourism. Four main new features can be seen in the second diagram that involves the building of a restaurant, reception accommodation, pier, and some insignificant modification. Looking at the changes in more detail, we can see in the first map there was a primitive island covered by trees. By contrast, tourists can access the island by boat easily now thanks to the construction of a pier. A restaurant is behind a reception, built in the center of the island, and both are accessed via vehicle track. Meanwhile, the hosing areas are only reachable by footpath, situated on either side of the reception. Furthermore, a beach in the west of the island is upgraded for swimming activities. Tourists can walk along the footpath from the accommodation area to here. Notably, there is a part of the island in the east that hasn’t been reclaimed yet.

Band score: 6.5

Concentrate on the pronoun usage

Posted on Nov 15, 2021

Very nice! There is very well answer and I need to other topic in writing task 1 .

Posted on Jul 22, 2021

Thank you so much! this is a well-developed answer that inspired me a lot!

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IELTS Writing Task 1 – Maps Example Essay 3

In this post, we will look at a Writing Task 1 Academic map essay example from the IELTS writing task 1 Academic Test. Students often ask if the questions are repeated year after year and the answer is no, but the type of map, process, graph or chart can be.

There are so many questions written each year, you may find you practice answering various questions on different topics. It is best practice to learn how to answer each one of the various types of writing task 1 questions , from bar charts, line graphs, maps, process etc.

If you would like to learn how to structure a map essay please click the button below >

Take a look at the IELTS Writing Task 1 Academic essay example below >>

*This map question and answer were provided by a student. IELTS Achieve did not design this question*

The map below is of the town of Garlsdon. A new supermarket (S) is planned for the town. The map shows two possible sites for the supermarket.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The map illustrates the two possible locations for a planned supermarket in the town of Garlsdon.

Overall, there were two prospective areas that were being considered for the construction of a supermarket intended for the 65,000 people of Garlsdon.

On the one hand, the first location is in the north-west part of the town just about 12 km to Hindon which has 10,000 residents. The said area is in the middle of the main road and the railway respectively. In addition, there are industrial factories located at the opposite side of the road going to Hindon.

On the other hand, the second site is situated in the town centre, which is a no traffic zone. This is between 16 km to Bransdon with a population of 15,000 and 25 km to Cransdon with a total of 29,000 inhabitants. The first location would be better for a large supermarket, as it has direct road and railway access, the second site is in the centre of the town, which has been labelled as a no traffic zone, this could make it difficult for shoppers to access.

Word count 184 / Band score 8

Task Achievement – The answer provides a paraphrased question, to begin with, followed by an overview that gives the reader key information.
Coherence and Cohesion – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs.
Lexical Resource – There is evidence of paraphrasing, synonyms and some less common words.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences are mainly made up of multiple clauses and have a variety of structures.

We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test . If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.

The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook , then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest . If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.

How To Use Cohesive Devices? IELTS writing task 2

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You are not happy with the course you are doing at college and would like to change to a different course: Semi-Formal Letter [IELTS General Writing Task 1 ]

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How To Write an IELTS Map Essay

Step 1 – Analyse the question

Step 2 – Identify the Main Features

Step 3 – Write an Introduction

Step 4 – Write an Overview (Paragraph 2)

Step 5 – Write the 1st Detail Paragraph

Step 6 – Write the 2nd Detail Paragraph

Finished IELTS Map Essay

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How to describe a map for academic task 1

1. Organise your thoughts

2. Task achievement

3. Coherence

4. Language

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IELTS Map Essay Decoded

Updated on 13 April, 2023

Mrinal Mandal

Table of Contents

Second Step- Identifying the Key Aspects

Writing Para 4

A Sample Question & Tip to Crack the Map Essay

First Step- Question Evaluation

Writing Your Essay

The Introduction:

The Overview:

Writing Para 3