IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Map – Types of Questions, Structure and Techniques
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Types of Map Questions in IELTS
When it comes to map questions in Writing Task 1, you will come across a variety of them. Jotted down below are some of them to help you understand the gist of these questions:
Explaining Data in the Present Scenario
This type of question is quite rare as you would have to explain the data about the present day. With such a question type, it could be a bit difficult to explain without making any comparison.
Explaining Information In Two Tenses: Present & Future
This type of question may come up occasionally, and you will have to write information in both present as well as future tenses. Generally, the questions will be about explaining the development of a city or a town in the future.
Explaining Information In Two Tenses: Past & Present
In this type of question, you will have to compare both the present as well as the past information. You will get two maps, and you will be asked to compare them, identifying main features.
Structure of Map Questions
As far as the structure is concerned, you will have to follow something specific. Below-mentioned is the entire structure that will help you get a better idea.
Paragraphs | Content Details & Structure |
---|---|
Paragraph 1 | In the first paragraph, you will have to paraphrase the information given in the question. When doing so, keep in mind that you don’t repeat the same sentences or words mentioned in the question. |
Paragraph 2 | The second paragraph is all about writing an overview. You would have to write two general statements. You can write about the most common differences between the two maps. |
Paragraph 3 (Main Body 1) | This paragraph should talk about certain changes that you can see on the map. |
Paragraph 4 (Main Body 2) | If you think there are more changes in both the maps, you can describe them in this paragraph. |
How to describe changes and locations?
Most of the time, students get stuck when describing a specific change, a general change or a location. Here are few examples of how you can do so:
Describing Specific Changes | Describing General Changes | Describing Locations |
---|---|---|
In specific changes, the main features will already be labeled and you just have to write on how it is being changed from past to present. | In general changes, there will be two maps given and you need to compare and explain the main features on the maps. | In the location, you have to write after identifying the points where changes have occurred on the maps. |
Buildings:
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Examples:
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Examples:
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IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Map Techniques
If you are planning to gain a band score of 6 and above, here are some techniques that you must keep in mind when attempting these questions:
Come Up with a Plan
Before you begin to write the explanation, you must plan and figure out how you want to go ahead with it. You can plan points that should be included in every paragraph. In case there is anything similar in both the maps, you can combine that information to write a common description.
Task Accomplishment
You would have to ensure that you have accomplished the task by keeping up with all of the rules. In simple words, your description should be of at least 150 words; else, it will be regarded invalid. Also, before writing the content, you can take a few minutes to understand the requirements and key features.
Language & Coherence
When describing, keep in mind that you are not repeating any words provided in the question. Every sentence should be unique and written in your own words. Here, vocabulary takes all the brownie points. Also, it is necessary to maintain coherence. You must follow a specific format and not go off-track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are different types of map questions?
What are the different tense verbs used to describe maps?
How to describe a map?
Why does writing task 1 not have a conclusion?
Can I use cardinal directions to describe maps even if there are no directions given in the map?
Practice IELTS Writing Task 1 based on report types
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