IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Maps

 

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1: Maps

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Useful Tips for Maps

1.      Compare two or three maps: Usually, you’ll see a place shown before and after a change.

2.      Use passive voice: e.g., "A new road was built..."

3.      Use map-related vocabulary: e.g., "north of", "next to", "replaced by"

4.      Group changes logically: For example, group changes on the east and west sides separately.

5.      Use correct tenses: Use past simple if maps are dated; present perfect or present for general/unlabeled time.

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Linking Words for Map Descriptions

Purpose	Linking Words
Add information	Moreover, In addition, Also
Show change	Was converted into, Was replaced by, Became
Location phrases	To the north/south/east/west of, Adjacent to, Opposite, Near
Comparison	While, Whereas, However, In contrast
Time	In 1990, By 2020, Over the 30-year period

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Structure of IELTS Map Writing

1. Introduction (1 sentence)

• Paraphrase the question.

2. Overview (2 sentences)

• Describe overall changes, like urbanization, expansion, or modernization.

3. Body Paragraph 1

• Describe main changes in one part (e.g., west side or older features).

4. Body Paragraph 2

• Describe further changes or compare with current developments.

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Sample Map Question

Question:

The maps below show the layout of a public park in 1980 and the same park today.

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Map Description (Text Version)

1980 Map:

• Entrance on the south.
• A fountain in the center.
• Two seating areas (north and west).
• A stage for musicians (west).
• A pond for boating (east).
• A small café near the entrance.

Today:

• Fountain replaced by a rose garden.
• Amphitheatre for concerts replaced the stage.
• Boating pond replaced by a children’s playground.
• Café expanded with an additional sitting area.
• A new entrance added on the north side.
• Underground car park added near the café.

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Band 9 Model Answer

Introduction:

The two maps illustrate the changes made to a public park between 1980 and the present day.

Overview:

Overall, the park has undergone significant modernization, with recreational areas being added and some features replaced to better serve visitors. The most notable changes include the replacement of the fountain with a rose garden and the addition of a new entrance and car park.

Body Paragraph 1:

In 1980, the park had a central fountain surrounded by seating areas to the north and west. Today, the fountain has been removed and replaced by a rose garden, still encircled by benches. To the west, the small stage for musicians has been replaced by a modern amphitheatre for concerts, indicating a shift towards more organized entertainment.

Body Paragraph 2:

To the east, the pond that was used for boating has been replaced with a children's play area, suggesting a new focus on family-friendly amenities. The café near the southern entrance has been expanded, now offering additional outdoor seating. Furthermore, a new northern entrance has been added, and an underground car park has been constructed nearby, improving accessibility for visitors.

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Vocabulary for Map Description

Change Verb	Location Phrase
Was demolished	To the west of / east of
Was replaced by	Adjacent to / Opposite
Was added / was built	At the centre / In the corner
Remained unchanged	Near / Close to
Was converted into	Next to / Beside